Category: Commerce

MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Russell Fry (SC-07) Introduces the Kayla Hamilton Act to Protect American Communities from Dangerous UAC Placements
Source:

Congressman Russell Fry (SC-07) Introduces the Kayla Hamilton Act to Protect American Communities from Dangerous UAC Placements

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Russell Fry (SC-07) introduced the Kayla Hamilton Act, critical legislation designed to close dangerous loopholes in the federal government’s handling of unaccompanied alien children (UACs) and to prevent tragedies like the murder of Kayla Hamilton, an autistic 20-year-old woman from Maryland. Congressmen Troy Nehls (TX-22) and Barry Moore (AL-01) are original cosponsors of this legislation.

Kayla was brutally murdered by Walter Javier Martinez, a UAC who was released to a sponsor—an individual responsible for housing and supervising the UAC—by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) before any background checks were completed. Because the Biden-Harris administration did not complete background checks prior to a UAC’s release, authorities were unaware that Martinez was in fact an El Salvadorian with a criminal history and affiliation with the MS-13 gang. Once authorities then took him into custody, Martinez also admitted to having committed four murders, two rapes, and other crimes.

To prevent such tragedies from happening again, the Kayla Hamilton Act mandates that the HHS Secretary consider whether the UAC poses a danger to themselves or the community when determining potential placements for them.

Additional reforms in the Kayla Hamilton Act include:
- Requires HHS to contact the consulate or embassy of a UAC’s home country to determine any criminal history or gang affiliation for UACs aged 12 and older.
- Mandates that HHS screen for gang tattoos during standard medical assessments and requires UACs with such indicators to be placed in secure facilities.
- UACs with known gang ties or tattoos must be housed in secure HHS facilities, not released into communities.
- Prohibits UAC placement with sponsors who are in the United States illegally.
- Requires HHS to collect and share background information on all potential sponsors and their adult household members—including immigration status and results of FBI fingerprint checks—with the Department of Homeland Security.
- Removes discretionary authority that previously allowed HHS to ignore risk factors such as gang activity or criminal history during placement decisions.
“The tragic murder of Kayla Hamilton was preventable,” said Congressman Fry. “The Biden Administration’s policies opened the door to criminal exploitation of our immigration system—and the Kayla Hamilton Act ensures that no future administration can make those same reckless decisions. It’s time we put public safety, accountability, and the protection of American citizens first. This bill makes clear that the integrity of our immigration system can no longer be an afterthought.”

“No one else should ever again have to suffer the way my daughter Kayla did,” said Tammy Nobles, Kayla Hamilton’s mother. “The Biden-Harris Administration’s policies prioritized the comfort of illegal aliens, like Kayla’s killer, over the safety of innocent Americans. The Kayla Hamilton Act is necessary to ensure background checks of unaccompanied alien children occur before they are released. If that had happened in the case of Kayla’s killer, authorities would have known he was an MS-13 gang member.”

“The Biden Administration’s failed policies regarding unaccompanied alien children put the American people at risk and resulted in one of the largest state-sponsored child trafficking operations in human history,” said Congressman Nehls. “The failure to conduct criminal background checks on the UACs cost the life of Kayla Hamilton, and the failure to vet UAC sponsors resulted in thousands of children likely being trafficked for labor or sex. I’m proud to cosponsor Congressman Fry’s Kayla Hamilton Act to prevent any future administration from releasing UAC gang members into our communities or failing to vet UAC sponsors, putting the safety of the American people first.”

“The tragic murder of Kayla Hamilton should have never happened,” said Congressman Moore. “This heartbreaking case is a direct result of reckless catch and release policies seen under the Biden Administration and the failure of Democrats in Congress to put the safety of American citizens first. We must ensure unaccompanied minors aren’t placed with dangerous individuals or illegal aliens without proper vetting. I am proud to be a co-sponsor of Rep. Fry’s bill, The Kayla Hamilton Act, which gives us the opportunity to close threatening loopholes, stop the flow of gang members like MS-13 into our communities, and restore common sense and accountability to our immigration system.”

Congressman Fry serves on both the House Energy and Commerce Committee and the House Judiciary Committee. To stay up to date with Congressman Fry and his work for the Seventh District, follow his official Facebook, Instagram, and X pages and visit his website at fry.house.gov.

MIL OSI USA News –
July 17, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK-Germany landmark agreement to help smash smuggling gangs and boost defence exports
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Press release

UK-Germany landmark agreement to help smash smuggling gangs and boost defence exports

Brits and Germans alike will benefit from a closer partnership on the issues that matter most to them, as Prime Minister Keir Starmer is set to host Chancellor Friedrich Merz for a comprehensive visit to London.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer will welcome Chancellor Merz to London today for his first official visit to the UK as Chancellor

The leaders will sign a new Treaty to strengthen their partnership and deliver benefits for UK and German citizens

PM set to welcome German commitment to criminalise facilitating illegal migration to the UK this year, as leaders agree to boost joint defence exports

Brits and Germans alike will benefit from a closer partnership on the issues that matter most to them, as Prime Minister Keir Starmer is set to host Chancellor Friedrich Merz for a comprehensive visit to London today (Thursday 17 July) to revamp the UK-Germany friendship and sign a first of its kind Bilateral Friendship and Cooperation Treaty.

Alongside the Treaty, Germany is expected to make a landmark commitment to make it illegal in Germany to facilitate illegal migration to the UK with the law change to be adopted by the end of the year.

The change will give law enforcement the tools they need to investigate and take action against warehouses and storage facilities used by migrant smugglers to conceal dangerous small boats intended for illegal crossings to the UK. This will bolster efforts to prosecute those involved in smuggling and support the dismantling of the criminal networks driving unacceptable and unlawful journeys through Europe.

This significant and long-awaited step is further evidence that the Prime Minister’s approach to working more closely with our European partners is bearing fruit, and demonstrates progress on delivering the Joint Action Plan on Irregular Migration agreed with Germany last year. Through increased cooperation between UK and German law enforcement bodies we are expanding efforts to tackle people smuggling and bring criminal networks to justice. In the last 18 months the NCA has worked with partners across Europe to seize more than 600 boats and engines, with this change expected to drive that number up further.

It will also complement bolstered UK efforts to smash the criminal gangs responsible for dangerous, illegal journeys to the UK via small boats, through the game-changing pilot returns agreement reached with France last week, and the continued work upstream of the Border Security Command to disrupt and deter criminal smuggling networks.

The new Treaty will detail closer collaboration on issues ranging from migration and security to business, commercial and infrastructure links. This joint commitment to pursue a range of ambitious projects demonstrates how closer partnerships with our trusted allies will help deliver the Prime Minister’s Plan for Change.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

“The progress we are making today is further proof that by investing in our relationships with likeminded friends and partners, we can deliver real change for working people.

“The Treaty we will sign today, the first of its kind, will bring the UK and Germany closer than ever. It not only marks the progress we have already made and the history we share. It is the foundation on which we go further to tackle shared problems and invest in shared strengths.

“Chancellor Merz’s commitment to make necessary changes to German law to disrupt the supply lines of the dangerous vessels which carry illegal migrants across the Channel is hugely welcome. As the closest of allies, we will continue to work closely together to deliver on the priorities that Brits and Germans share.”

Deepening our security and defence cooperation is also high on the agenda, with the leaders set to discuss their strong shared support for Ukraine.

Building on the landmark Trinity House Agreement on Defence signed in October, the leaders will unveil a new agreement to boost world-class UK defence exports such as Boxer armoured vehicles and Typhoon jets, with the two countries set to pursue joint export campaigns for jointly produced equipment. The agreement is likely to lead to billions of pounds additional defence exports in the coming years – excellent news for the UK economy and thousands of highly skilled defence industrial workers.

The leaders are also set to make a new commitment to deliver their new Deep Precision Strike capability in the next decade. The rapid development of this capability will safeguard the British public and reinforce NATO deterrence, while boosting the UK and European defence sectors through significant industrial investment. The new capability is set to have a range of over 2,000 km, and will be among the most advanced systems ever designed by the UK.

The Treaty also includes the establishment of a new UK-Germany Business Forum in order to improve business and investment relationship between the UK and Germany, with trade between the two countries already accounting for 8.5% of all UK trade and supporting almost 500,000 jobs. This is further illustrated by a series of commercial investment announced today worth more than £200 million and creating more than 600 new jobs.

One such example is German defence tech company, STARK, which has announced a landmark investment in the UK, marking its first production expansion outside of Germany. The move will create over 100 highly skilled jobs in the UK within the first year, including through STARK’s new 40,000 square feet facility in Swindon.

Mike Armstrong, Managing Director of STARK UK, said:

“The UK and Germany are world-leaders in new technology that will define the battlefields of the future. We need rapid and scalable production to protect our people, defend our sovereignty and deter aggression. That means resilient supply chains stretching across Europe.

“That is why STARK has chosen the UK as our first production location outside of Germany – taking advantage of the vast technological, industrial and defence expertise that exists here to create AI-powered, unmanned systems to defend Europe and NATO.”

Other announcements from German companies in the UK today include:

Conversational AI firm Cognigy plans to invest £50 million in the UK, expanding its team from 13 to 150.

AI ESG platform osapiens plans to invest £30 million in the UK, creating 150 high-skilled jobs.

Siemens Energy is creating 200 new jobs as well as 100 new apprentices and graduates starting this autumn.

Venture Capital fund, HV Capital, has the ambition to deploy around £150 million in the UK as part of their next fund generation.

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Published 16 July 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
July 17, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Pacific Trade Ministers to meet in Fiji

Source: New Zealand Government

Minister of State for Trade and Investment Nicola Grigg will travel to Fiji this week to attend the Pacific Island Forum’s Trade Ministers Meeting (FTMM).

“Trade plays a critical role in getting more money into your back pocket, helping you and your family to thrive. It drives employment, economic growth, and lifts the standard of living in New Zealand and across the Pacific,” Ms Grigg says.

The Pacific Island Forum’s (PIF) biennial Trade Ministers Meeting will be held in Suva on 18 July. It is a key regional event, bringing together Pacific trade ministers to discuss and shape the future of trade and economic integration.

“The Government is strongly committed to supporting Pacific Island countries to grow the positive impacts of trade. New Zealand’s attendance at the FTMM signals our continued commitment to regional cooperation, resilience, and leadership in advancing Pacific trade priorities under the 2050 Strategy for the Pacific Blue Continent,” Ms Grigg says.

“This key regional meeting provides a timely platform to discuss the critical importance of the rules-based trading system, with the World Trade Organisation at its core. This structure is particularly vital for small countries like New Zealand and PIF members. We are best served by a world in which trade flows freely governed by rules.

“I will attend a Fiji New Zealand Business Council event where the Council will launch its strategy to help reach the joint New Zealand and Fiji goal of lifting two-way trade to NZ$2 billion by 2030.

“I also look forward to engaging with my PACER Plus Ministerial counterparts. PACER Plus is the largest and most comprehensive trade agreement in our region. It is helping both large and small businesses — including women-led businesses — to grow; reduce costs through e-commerce and enhance regulatory cooperation between governments, streamline customs processes, paperless trade, and provisions on investment that protect investors; and to promote cross-border investment flows.

“While PACER Plus is a trade agreement, with currently 10 parties, that also speaks to the bonds between our nations, as neighbours, partners, and family, whose interests, prosperity, and well-being are intertwined.”

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

July 17, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: TOP AFRICA NEWS Named Best Environment & Natural Resources News Platform 2025 by MEA Markets

Source: APO

TOP AFRICA NEWS (www.TOPAFRICANEWS.com) has been recognized as the Best Environment & Natural Resources News Platform 2025 by MEA Markets, highlighting its significant contribution to environmental journalism across Africa.

This latest accolade caps a series of distinguished awards for the platform, including SME of the Year (2022), Best International Publication Service Provider (2023), and Best Marketing Service Provider (2024), demonstrating consistent excellence and leadership in the region’s media landscape.

Founder and Managing Director Mr. DUSABEMUNGU Ange de la Victoire expressed pride in the achievement, stating, “Being named the best platform in this vital field underscores our dedication to covering critical environmental issues affecting Africa. It motivates us to continue delivering impactful, accurate, and insightful journalism that can influence policy and inspire sustainable change across the continent.”

He emphasized the platform’s mission, saying, “At TOP AFRICA NEWS, our goal remains to amplify Africa’s stories on issues like natural resources, conservation, and sustainable development—topics that are pivotal for the continent’s future. This award reaffirms our role as a trusted voice for Africa’s environment and natural resources sectors.”

Available on www.TOPAFRICANEWS.com, the website provides comprehensive coverage of topics ranging from agriculture and tourism to youth engagement and peacebuilding, aiming to inform and empower communities across Africa.

As climate and environmental challenges grow more urgent, TOP AFRICA NEWS pledges to sustain its focus on delivering high-quality news that drives awareness, action, and sustainable development across Africa.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of TOP AFRICA NEWS.

Additional link: https://apo-opa.co/4kHbEw8

Media contact:
vickange@gmail.com

About TOP AFRICA NEWS:
TOP AFRICA NEWS is a Private shareholder Digital News Website managed by AFRICA NEWS DIGEST Ltd, a Domestic Company registered in Rwanda Development Board. Available on www.TOPAFRICANEWS.com, this website publishes stories from across Africa focusing on Environment, Natural resources, Livestock and Agriculture, Tourism and conservation, Youth, Sports and Culture, Peace Building, Health, Infrastructure and ICT, Security, Education, Business and Banking. The main objective of this website is to tell the World the real Africa’s Story from the real and reliable sources. We Publish News Stories, Supplements stories, advertorials, Feature stories among many others. We are based in Kigali, Rwanda.

Media files

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MIL OSI Africa –

July 17, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Latta’s Bipartisan HALT Fentanyl Act Now Law of the Land

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bob Latta (R-Bowling Green Ohio)

Latta’s Bipartisan HALT Fentanyl Act Now Law of the Land

Washington, July 16, 2025

Today, Congressman Bob Latta (OH-5) announced that President Donald Trump signed into law his bipartisan Halt All Lethal Trafficking (HALT) of Fentanyl Act. Co-led by Congressman Latta and Congressman Morgan Griffith (VA-9), this new law permanently classifies fentanyl-related substances (FRS) as a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act. A schedule I controlled substance is a drug, substance, or chemical that has a high potential for abuse; has no currently accepted medical value; and is subject to regulatory controls and administrative, civil, and criminal penalties. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over the past five years, more than 324,000 fentanyl-related deaths have been recorded in the United States.

“Today marks a crucial day in the fight against the opioid epidemic as my bipartisan HALT Fentanyl legislation is now the law of the land to help protect American communities by cracking down on deadly fentanyl-related substances and saving lives,” said Latta. “With this law, we’re permanently classifying fentanyl-related substances as a Schedule I drug so that the penalties can be put in place to dissuade more hardworking Americans from falling victim to the poison and make our neighborhoods safer. I thank President Trump for signing this vital legislation into law to add another tool in our fight to keep dangerous drugs off our streets and out of the hands of our communities across Ohio and the country.”

Congressman Latta has consistently championed legislation to fight against the opioid epidemic. Last Congress, he led the HALT Fentanyl Act through the Energy and Commerce Committee and the House, demonstrating his leadership and commitment to combating the spread against deadly fentanyl-related substances.

In 2018, Congressman Latta along with the Energy and Commerce Committee passed the Substance Use-Disorder Prevention that Promotes Opioid Recovery and Treatment for Patients and Communities (SUPPORT) Act, a comprehensive legislative package to tackle the opioid crisis. Included in this legislation was Congressman Latta’s Indexing Narcotics, Fentanyl, and Opioids (INFO) Act, a bill aimed to improve data collection and transparency regarding opioid treatment programs. This year, Congressman Latta played a crucial role in reauthorizing the SUPPORT Act with the same goal of continuing to support those battling substance abuse.

He has also penned multiple op-eds in support of this legislation including in the Washington Examiner and Washington Times, helping to raise national awareness and save lives.

MIL OSI USA News –

July 17, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Griffith Attends WH Ceremony, HALT Fentanyl Act Signed into Law

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA)

U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) attended a White House bill signing ceremony for S. 331, the Halt All Lethal Trafficking of (HALT) Fentanyl Act today. The bill is the companion bill to Rep. Griffith’s and Rep. Latta’s HALT Fentanyl bill, H.R. 27, which passed the House earlier this year. The HALT Fentanyl Act now becomes the law of the land.

Coverage of the ceremony can be viewed here.

On the legislation becoming law, Congressman Griffith issued the following statement:

“As a leading proponent of the HALT Fentanyl Act since Day One, I am glad to see this important bill become law!

“I appreciate my Congressional colleagues and President Trump for their relentless support of the HALT Fentanyl Act and their determination to combat the deadly fentanyl crisis. Today is an important step in taking action against lethal fentanyl-related substances and saving lives.

“I look forward to supporting future actions that strengthen our fight against the fentanyl crisis.”

BACKGROUND

The U.S. House of Representatives passed Rep. Griffith’s and Rep. Latta’s H.R. 27 on February 6, 2025. Their statement is available here.

In February, the Trump Administration issued a statement of Administration policy signaling their support of the HALT Fentanyl Act.

The Senate version, S. 331, passed the Senate on March 14, 2025, and the House on June 12, 2025.

While under consideration, Congressman Griffith managed floor debate on the HALT Fentanyl Act. His remarks can be seen here.

The HALT Fentanyl Act permanently classifies lethal fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I substances, closing a dangerous loophole traffickers are exploiting. The temporary Schedule I designation was set to expire in September 2025.

The bill also enables a streamlined registration process for medical research into fentanyl-related substances.

The recently-passed reconciliation bill will help the Trump Administration in its efforts to combat the fentanyl crisis. The bill boosts funding for border and immigration enforcement agencies and activities related to combatting trafficking of drugs, including deadly fentanyl-related substances.

This July, Congressman Griffith was named Chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health.

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MIL OSI USA News –

July 17, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Padilla, Chu, Colleagues Join Union Workers to Announce Legislation to Protect Workers from Extreme Heat

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

Padilla, Chu, Colleagues Join Union Workers to Announce Legislation to Protect Workers from Extreme Heat

WATCH: Padilla pushes for enforceable workplace heat stress protections after hottest year on record

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, on the heels of another harsh heat wave across California, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and Representative Judy Chu (D-Calif.-28) joined union workers from the United Farm Workers (UFW), American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, and United Steelworkers to announce their bipartisan, bicameral legislation to implement federal enforceable workplace heat stress protections.

Co-leads of the legislation include U.S. Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), and Representatives Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (D-Va.-03), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Education and Workforce, and Alma Adams (D-N.C.-12).

To address the increasing risks from extreme temperatures, the lawmakers introduced the Asunción Valdivia Heat Illness, Injury, and Fatality Prevention Act, legislation to protect the safety and health of indoor and outdoor workers who are exposed to dangerous heat conditions in the workplace. The legislation would protect workers against occupational exposure to excessive heat by requiring the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to establish an enforceable federal standard to protect workers in high-heat environments with commonsense measures like paid breaks in cool spaces, access to water, limitations on time exposed to heat, and emergency response for workers with heat-related illness. The bill also directs employers to provide training for their employees on the risk factors that can lead to heat illness and guidance on the proper procedures for responding to symptoms.

The bill is named in honor of Asunción Valdivia, who died in 2004 after picking grapes for 10 hours straight in 105-degree temperatures. Mr. Valdivia fell unconscious, but instead of calling an ambulance, his employer told Mr. Valdivia’s son to drive his father home. On his way home, he died of heat stroke at the age of 53.

“Asunción Valdivia’s death was completely preventable, yet his story is sadly not unique. As the planet continues to grow hotter, there is still no federally enforceable heat safety standard for workers. That’s not just dangerous for the farm workers and construction workers who work all day outside in the sun — it’s also dangerous for the factory and restaurant workers in boiling warehouses and kitchens,” said Senator Padilla. “Every family deserves to know that even on the hottest day, their loved one will come back home. A national heat safety standard would provide that peace of mind and finally give workers the safety they deserve.”

“Even as heat waves become more frequent, longer-lasting, and more severe, red state politicians are rolling back heat protections and child labor protections across the country. It’s not rocket science—you cannot be pro-worker if you are anti-heat protection,” said Senator Markey. “Our legislation would provide workers with basic, effective protections: access to water, access to shade, time limits on high heat exposure, and procedures for emergency medical response. Every worker deserves to know when they clock in that they will return home safe at the end of their shift. The thermometer is rising and the clock is ticking. Republicans want to sacrifice working Americans. Let’s save our workers instead.”

“From farmhands to construction workers, America’s essential workforce is doing important work while under extreme heat conditions,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “Temperatures continue to reach record highs in Nevada and across the United States. We must act now to protect our communities’ vital workers.”

“As we continue to experience record-breaking summer heat waves, we’re also seeing a distressing increase in cases of workers collapsing and even losing their lives due to excessive heat. I will never forget people like Asunción Valdivia or Esteban Chavez Jr., who passed away in Pasadena, California in 2022 after a day of delivering packages in 90-degree heat in a truck without air conditioning. Unfortunately, their tragic deaths were entirely preventable,” said Representative Chu. “Whether on a farm, driving a truck, or working in a warehouse, workers like Asunción and Esteban keep our country running while enduring some of the most difficult conditions—often without access to water or rest. To protect our workforce and save lives, we must pass this bill into law and establish comprehensive and enforceable federal standards addressing heat stress on the job.”

“This summer, Americans across the country are grappling with some of the hottest temperatures on record. Yet workers in this country still have no legal protection against excessive heat—one of the oldest, most serious, and most common workplace hazards. Heat illness affects workers in our nation’s fields, warehouses, and factories, and climate change is making the problem more severe every year,” said Ranking Member Scott, House Committee on Education and Workforce. “This legislation will require OSHA to issue a heat standard on a much faster track than the normal OSHA regulatory process. I was proud to advance this important bill in 2022, and I urge Chairman Walberg and Committee Republicans to do so again this Congress. Workers deserve nothing less, particularly as heat-related illnesses and deaths rise.”

“As we face record temperatures, it has never been more important that we protect our workers facing extreme heat in the workplace,” said Representative Adams. “Last year, a North Carolina postal worker Wendy Johnson lost her life to heat illness after spending hours in the back of a postal truck on a 95-degree day with no air conditioning. Her death was entirely preventable, and Wendy should still be with us today. I’m proud to introduce this bill so we can honor her memory and ensure every worker has the protections from extreme heat that Wendy deserved.”

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), 2024 was the warmest year on record for the United States. The past decade, including 2024, was the hottest on record, marking a decade of extreme heat that will only get worse. Heat-related illnesses can cause heat cramps, organ damage, heat exhaustion, stroke, and even death. Between 1992 and 2017, heat stress injuries killed 815 U.S. workers and seriously injured more than 70,000. The Washington Center for Equitable Growth estimates hot temperatures caused at least 360,000 workplace injuries in California from 2001 to 2018, or about 20,000 injuries a year. The failure to implement simple heat safety measures costs U.S. employers nearly $100 billion every year in lost productivity.

From 2011-2020, heat exposure killed at least 400 workers and caused nearly 34,000 injuries and illnesses resulting in days away from work; both are likely vast underestimates. Farm workers and construction workers suffer the highest incidence of heat illness. And no matter what the weather is outside, workers in factories, commercial kitchens, and other workplaces, including ones where workers must wear personal protective equipment (PPE), can face dangerously high heat conditions all year round.

The Asunción Valdivia Heat Illness, Injury, and Fatality Prevention Act has the support of a broad coalition of over 250 groups, including: Rural Coalition, International Brotherhood of Teamsters, AFL-CIO, UNITE HERE!, Communication Workers of America, Alianza Nacional de Campesinas, Sierra Club, United Farm Workers, Farmworker Justice, Public Citizen, International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers, United Food and Commercial Workers International Union, Union of Concerned Scientists, United Steelworkers, National Resources Defense Council, American Lung Association, and Health Partnerships.

“Every worker safety rule in America is written in blood,” said UFW President Teresa Romero. “The UFW has been fighting for heat safety protections for decades. Over 20 years later, Asuncion Valdivia’s death still hurts. There are so many other farm workers — many whose names we do not know — who have also been killed by extreme heat on the job in the years since. Enough is enough. Every farm worker deserves access to water, shade, and paid rest breaks — it’s past time for Congress get this done.”

“Too many workers – including AFSCME members – have lost their lives on the job as a result of blistering heat waves and record-breaking temperatures,” said AFSCME President Lee Saunders. “As the number of heat-related illnesses and fatalities continue to rise, it is well past time we adopt nationwide safeguards to better protect the workers who maintain our infrastructure, keep our streets clean, harvest our food, and keep our economy moving. We at AFSCME thank Senator Padilla and Representative Chu for introducing the Asunción Valdivia Heat Illness, Injury, and Fatality Prevention Act, which will ensure essential workers who brave the heat can do their jobs safely and effectively, and most importantly, make it home alive.”

“For the Steelworkers Union, we represent workers in manufacturing settings and in a host of other areas where not only is it hot outside, but the areas that they work around are as hot as up to 3,000 degrees and they must wear protective equipment. The Asunción Valdivia Heat, Illness, Injury, and Fatality Prevention Act is important because it will provide a basic standard for not just outdoor, but indoor workplaces as well to ensure that there is proper rest breaks and the ability to stay cool. The Steelworkers are absolutely supportive of this bill and are going to work with Republicans and Democrats to ensure that heat illness is the last thing a worker should worry about,” said Roy Houseman, Legislative Director of United Steelworkers.

“Everyone deserves safe working conditions, but powerful corporations have not done enough to protect their workers from hot working environments, exacerbated by the climate crisis,” said Liz Shuler, President of the AFL-CIO. “Extreme heat is increasingly causing indoor and outdoor workers to collapse or even die on the job, and our union family has already lost too many members to preventable, work-related heat illness. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) must issue a strong heat rule, not a weak one, to ensure workers have specific protections they need and to be able to raise unsafe working conditions without fear of retaliation.”

“It’s long past time for meaningful legislation to protect Teamsters and other workers from the effects of prolonged heat exposure and dangerous heat levels while at work,” said Teamsters General President Sean M. O’Brien. “Paid breaks in cool spaces, access to water, and limitations on time exposed to heat are simple common sense steps that should be mandated immediately. Waiting to implement these measures is unacceptable and will result in the further loss of lives.”

“Workers in America are facing unprecedented dangers from climate-driven heat and extreme weather, and things are only getting worse. It is far past time for a strong national standard to protect workers from illness and death caused by exposure to extreme heat. The provisions mandated in this bill, including temperature triggers, acclimatization, water, shade and paid rest breaks, would save countless lives. They represent a common sense and common decency approach that employers could quickly adopt. American workers deserve no less, and they urgently need it. Today, OSHA is in the final stage of issuing a final rule on this issue. It is imperative that the rule maintain the integrity and high standards called for in the Asuncíon Valdivia Heat Illness, Injury, and Fatality Prevention Act. We applaud Senators Padilla, Markey, and Cortez Masto and Representatives Chu, Adams, and Scott, as well as the dozens of Senators and Congresspersons who have joined them in this long effort. It’s time to bring a high quality, protective standard to the finish line for American workers,” said Ernesto Archila, Climate and Financial Regulation Policy Director, Public Citizen.

“Every summer high temperature records get broken in states across the country, and while public health officials urge residents to stay inside and stay safe millions of workers have to report for work. From fields to warehouses, airports to schools, construction sites to manufacturing plants, and many more industries, too many workers are at risk of not getting home safely at the end of the day due to exposure to heat on the job. We know how to prevent these dangers. In fact, both outdoor and indoor workers in states like Oregon, California, and Maryland have strong, enforceable protections in place already. And in Washington, Colorado, and Minnesota at least some categories of workers are being kept safe from heat. But millions labor in other states where there are no protections; worker safety is left to the federal government in these states, and absent strong rules workers are left to protect themselves and hope for the best. We must extend workplace protections from heat to all workers. The National Employment Law Project thanks Senator Padilla and Representative Chu, as well as the dozens of Senators and Congresspersons who have cosponsored the Asunción Valdivia Heat Illness, Injury, and Fatality Prevention Act of 2025,” said Anastasia Christman, Senior Policy Analyst, National Employment Law Project.

The bill is cosponsored by Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.).

Senator Padilla has acted urgently to address the threats posed by extreme heat as the climate crisis becomes more severe. Padilla successfully called on OSHA to establish the first-ever federal safety standard to protect workers from the severe risks of excessive heat, implementing key provisions from the Asunción Valdivia Heat Illness, Injury, and Fatality Prevention Act. Padilla and his colleagues also led 112 members of Congress in calling on the Biden Administration to implement a workplace federal heat standard as quickly as possible. The letter urged OSHA to model the standard after the provisions in the Asunción Valdivia Heat Illness, Injury, and Fatality Prevention Act. Additionally, Padilla and Markey’s Preventing Health Emergencies and Temperature-related (HEAT) Illness and Deaths Act advanced out of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation last year.

Padilla previously joined union members and workers from UFW and the Kern, Inyo, and Mono Counties Central Labor Council, AFL-CIO in Forty Acres, California in 2023 to announce his legislation to implement an enforceable federal workplace heat standard.

A one-pager on the Asunción Valdivia Heat Illness, Injury, and Fatality Prevention Act is available here.

A section-by-section of the bill is available here.

Full text of the bill is available here.

MIL OSI USA News –

July 17, 2025
MIL-OSI: SPS Commerce Announces Date of Second Quarter 2025 Financial Results

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

MINNEAPOLIS, July 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SPS Commerce, Inc. (NASDAQ: SPSC), a leader in retail supply chain cloud services, today announced that it will issue its financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2025, after the market close on Wednesday, July 30, 2025. SPS Commerce will host a call to discuss the results at 3:30 p.m. Central Time (4:30 p.m. Eastern Time) on the same day.

To access the call, please dial 1-833-816-1382, or outside the U.S. 1-412-317-0475 at least 15 minutes prior to the 3:30 p.m. CT start time. Please ask to join the SPS Commerce conference call. A live webcast of the call will also be available at http://investors.spscommerce.com under the Events and Presentations menu. The replay will also be available on our website at http://investors.spscommerce.com.

About SPS Commerce

SPS Commerce is the world’s leading retail network, connecting trading partners around the globe to optimize supply chain operations for all retail partners. We support data-driven partnerships with innovative cloud technology, customer-obsessed service, and accessible experts so our customers can focus on what they do best. Over 50,000 recurring revenue customers in retail, grocery, distribution, supply, manufacturing, and logistics are using SPS as their retail network. SPS has achieved 97 consecutive quarters of revenue growth and is headquartered in Minneapolis. For additional information, contact SPS at 866-245-8100 or visit www.spscommerce.com.

SPS COMMERCE, SPS, SPS logo and INFINITE RETAIL POWER are marks of SPS Commerce, Inc. and registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, along with other SPS marks. Such marks may also be registered or otherwise protected in other countries.

Contact:

Investor Relations
The Blueshirt Group
Irmina Blaszczyk
Lisa Laukkanen
SPSC@blueshirtgroup.com
415-217-4962

SPS-F

The MIL Network –

July 17, 2025

MIL-OSI: South Plains Financial, Inc. Reports Second Quarter 2025 Financial Results

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

LUBBOCK, Texas, July 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — South Plains Financial, Inc. (NASDAQ:SPFI) (“South Plains” or the “Company”), the parent company of City Bank (“City Bank” or the “Bank”), today reported its financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2025.

Second Quarter 2025 Highlights

Net income for the second quarter of 2025 was $14.6 million, compared to $12.3 million for the first quarter of 2025 and $11.1 million for the second quarter of 2024.
Diluted earnings per share for the second quarter of 2025 was $0.86, compared to $0.72 for the first quarter of 2025 and $0.66 for the second quarter of 2024.
Average cost of deposits for the second quarter of 2025 was 214 basis points, compared to 219 basis points for the first quarter of 2025 and 243 basis points for the second quarter of 2024.
Net interest margin, on a tax-equivalent basis, was 4.07% for the second quarter of 2025, compared to 3.81% for the first quarter of 2025 and 3.63% for the second quarter of 2024.
Return on average assets for the second quarter of 2025 was 1.34%, compared to 1.16% for the first quarter of 2025 and 1.07% for the second quarter of 2024.
Tangible book value (non-GAAP) per share was $26.70 as of June 30, 2025, compared to $26.05 as of March 31, 2025 and $24.15 as of June 30, 2024.
The consolidated total risk-based capital ratio, common equity tier 1 risk-based capital ratio, and tier 1 leverage ratio at June 30, 2025 were 18.17%, 13.86%, and 12.12%, respectively.

Curtis Griffith, South Plains’ Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, commented, “We delivered solid second quarter results highlighted by steady margin expansion, continued loan growth despite high levels of loan payoffs, which were expected, and healthy capital levels that continued to build through the quarter. Additionally, we believe the credit quality of our loan portfolio remained solid through the quarter. We believe that we are in a strong position to take advantage of opportunities as they present themselves and are pursuing a strategy to increase the assets of the Bank primarily focused on expanding our lending capabilities. Our community-based deposit franchise continues to provide a stable, lower-cost funding source for loan growth across our markets and our team has done a terrific job growing our loan portfolio over the last five years. We believe that we have opportunities to accelerate that growth by further expanding our lending platform and adding experienced commercial lenders who share our culture and values, and who can bring high quality customer relationships to the Bank. We recruited several experienced lenders in the Dallas market during the second quarter and will continue to add talent in the quarters to come as we expand our reach and continue to work to take market share.”

Results of Operations, Quarter Ended June 30, 2025

Net Interest Income

Net interest income was $42.5 million for the second quarter of 2025, compared to $38.5 million for the first quarter of 2025 and $35.9 million for the second quarter of 2024. Net interest margin, calculated on a tax-equivalent basis, was 4.07% for the second quarter of 2025, compared to 3.81% for the first quarter of 2025 and 3.63% for the second quarter of 2024. The average yield on loans was 6.99% for the second quarter of 2025, compared to 6.67% for the first quarter of 2025 and 6.60% for the second quarter of 2024. The average cost of deposits was 214 basis points for the second quarter of 2025, which is 5 basis points lower than the first quarter of 2025 and 29 basis points lower than the second quarter of 2024. There was a recovery of $1.7 million in interest during the second quarter of 2025, related to a full repayment of a loan that had previously been on nonaccrual. This recovery positively impacted the net interest margin by 17 basis points and the loan yield by 23 basis points during the second quarter of 2025.

Interest income was $64.1 million for the second quarter of 2025, compared to $59.9 million for the first quarter of 2025 and $59.2 million for the second quarter of 2024. Interest income increased $4.2 million in the second quarter of 2025 from the first quarter of 2025, which was primarily comprised of an increase of $3.3 million in loan interest income and an increase of $888 thousand in interest income on other earning assets. The increase in loan interest income was due primarily to the $1.7 million recovery of interest and growth of $20.0 million in average loans outstanding during the second quarter of 2025. The increase in interest income on other earning assets was mainly due to an increase of $69.8 million in average other interest-earning assets during the second quarter of 2025. Interest income increased $4.9 million in the second quarter of 2025 compared to the second quarter of 2024. This increase was primarily due to the $1.7 million recovery of interest and an increase of average loans of $12.0 million and higher loan interest rates during the period, resulting in growth of $3.3 million in loan interest income.

Interest expense was $21.6 million for the second quarter of 2025, compared to $21.4 million for the first quarter of 2025 and $23.3 million for the second quarter of 2024. Interest expense increased $237 thousand compared to the first quarter of 2025 and decreased $1.7 million compared to the second quarter of 2024. The $237 thousand increase was primarily as a result of a $21.2 million increase in average interest-bearing deposits during the second quarter of 2025 as compared to the first quarter of 2025. The $1.7 million decrease was primarily as a result of a 42 basis point decline in the cost of interest-bearing deposits, partially offset by an increase of $151.3 million in average interest-bearing deposits in the second quarter of 2025 as compared to the second quarter of 2024.

Noninterest Income and Noninterest Expense

Noninterest income was $12.2 million for the second quarter of 2025, compared to $10.6 million for the first quarter of 2025 and $12.7 million for the second quarter of 2024. The increase from the first quarter of 2025 was primarily due to an increase of $1.5 million in mortgage banking revenues, mainly as a result of an increase of $1.4 million in the fair value adjustment of the mortgage servicing rights assets as interest rates that affect the value stabilized in the second quarter of 2025 after declining in the first quarter of 2025. The decrease in noninterest income for the second quarter of 2025 as compared to the second quarter of 2024 was primarily due to a decrease of $523 thousand in income from investments in Small Business Investment Companies.

Noninterest expense was $33.5 million for the second quarter of 2025, compared to $33.0 million for the first quarter of 2025 and $32.6 million for the second quarter of 2024. The $513 thousand increase from the first quarter of 2025 was largely the result of an increase of $267 thousand in personnel expenses and $144 thousand in increased professional service expenses. The $971 thousand increase in noninterest expense for the second quarter of 2025 as compared to the second quarter of 2024 was largely the result of an increase of $509 thousand in personnel expenses, mainly a result of annual salary adjustments.

Loan Portfolio and Composition

Loans held for investment were $3.10 billion as of June 30, 2025, compared to $3.08 billion as of March 31, 2025 and $3.09 billion as of June 30, 2024. The increase of $23.1 million, or 3.0% annualized, during the second quarter of 2025 as compared to the first quarter of 2025 occurred primarily as a result of organic loan growth experienced broadly across the portfolio, partially offset by a decrease of $52.6 million in multi-family property loans mainly due to the payoff of three loans totaling $49.1 million. As of June 30, 2025, loans held for investment increased $4.7 million, or 0.2%, from June 30, 2024.

Deposits and Borrowings

Deposits totaled $3.74 billion as of June 30, 2025, compared to $3.79 billion as of March 31, 2025 and $3.62 billion as of June 30, 2024. Deposits decreased by $53.6 million, or 1.4%, in the second quarter of 2025 from March 31, 2025. Deposits increased by $114.4 million, or 3.2%, at June 30, 2025 as compared to June 30, 2024. Noninterest-bearing deposits were $998.8 million as of June 30, 2025, compared to $966.5 million as of March 31, 2025 and $951.6 million as of June 30, 2024. Noninterest-bearing deposits represented 26.7% of total deposits as of June 30, 2025. The quarterly change in total deposits was mainly due to a seasonal decrease of $73.7 million in public fund deposits, partially offset by organic growth in retail and commercial deposits. The year-over-year increase in total deposits was primarily the result of continued organic growth in retail and commercial deposits.

Asset Quality

The Company recorded a provision for credit losses in the second quarter of 2025 of $2.5 million, compared to $420 thousand in the first quarter of 2025 and $1.8 million in the second quarter of 2024. The provision during the second quarter of 2025 was largely attributable to an increase in specific reserves, net charge-off activity, increased loan balances, and several credit quality downgrades.

The ratio of allowance for credit losses to loans held for investment was 1.45% as of June 30, 2025, compared to 1.40% as of March 31, 2025 and 1.40% as of June 30, 2024.

The ratio of nonperforming assets to total assets was 0.25% as of June 30, 2025, compared to 0.16% as of March 31, 2025 and 0.57% as of June 30, 2024. Annualized net charge-offs were 0.06% for the second quarter of 2025, compared to 0.07% for the first quarter of 2025 and 0.10% for the second quarter of 2024.

Capital

Book value per share increased to $27.98 at June 30, 2025, compared to $27.33 at March 31, 2025. The change was primarily driven by $12.2 million of net income after dividends paid, partially offset by a decrease in accumulated other comprehensive income of $2.3 million. The ratio of tangible common equity to tangible assets (non-GAAP) increased 34 basis points to 9.98% during the second quarter of 2025.

Conference Call

South Plains will host a conference call to discuss its second quarter 2025 financial results today, July 16, 2025, at 5:00 p.m., Eastern Time. Investors and analysts interested in participating in the call are invited to dial 1-877-407-9716 (international callers please dial 1-201-493-6779) approximately 10 minutes prior to the start of the call. A live audio webcast of the conference call and conference materials will be available on the Company’s website at https://www.spfi.bank/news-events/events.

A replay of the conference call will be available within two hours of the conclusion of the call and can be accessed on the investor section of the Company’s website as well as by dialing 1-844-512-2921 (international callers please dial 1-412-317-6671). The pin to access the telephone replay is 13754259. The replay will be available until July 30, 2025.

About South Plains Financial, Inc.

South Plains is the bank holding company for City Bank, a Texas state-chartered bank headquartered in Lubbock, Texas. City Bank is one of the largest independent banks in West Texas and has additional banking operations in the Dallas, El Paso, Greater Houston, the Permian Basin, and College Station, Texas markets, and the Ruidoso, New Mexico market. South Plains provides a wide range of commercial and consumer financial services to small and medium-sized businesses and individuals in its market areas. Its principal business activities include commercial and retail banking, along with investment, trust and mortgage services. Please visit https://www.spfi.bank for more information.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

Some of the financial measures included in this press release are not measures of financial performance recognized in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (“GAAP”). These non-GAAP financial measures include Tangible Book Value Per Share, Tangible Common Equity to Tangible Assets, and Pre-Tax, Pre-Provision Income. The Company believes these non-GAAP financial measures provide both management and investors a more complete understanding of the Company’s financial position and performance. These non-GAAP financial measures are supplemental and are not a substitute for any analysis based on GAAP financial measures.

We classify a financial measure as being a non-GAAP financial measure if that financial measure excludes or includes amounts, or is subject to adjustments that have the effect of excluding or including amounts, that are included or excluded, as the case may be, in the most directly comparable measure calculated and presented in accordance with GAAP as in effect from time to time in the United States in our statements of income, balance sheets or statements of cash flows. Not all companies use the same calculation of these measures; therefore, this presentation may not be comparable to other similarly titled measures as presented by other companies.

A reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures to GAAP financial measures is provided at the end of this press release.

Available Information

The Company routinely posts important information for investors on its web site (under www.spfi.bank and, more specifically, under the News & Events tab at www.spfi.bank/news-events/press-releases). The Company intends to use its web site as a means of disclosing material non-public information and for complying with its disclosure obligations under Regulation FD (Fair Disclosure) promulgated by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). Accordingly, investors should monitor the Company’s web site, in addition to following the Company’s press releases, SEC filings, public conference calls, presentations and webcasts.

The information contained on, or that may be accessed through, the Company’s web site is not incorporated by reference into, and is not a part of, this document.

Forward Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements reflect South Plains’ current views with respect to future events and South Plains’ financial performance. Any statements about South Plains’ expectations, beliefs, plans, predictions, forecasts, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance are not historical facts and may be forward-looking. These statements are often, but not always, made through the use of words or phrases such as “anticipate,” “believes,” “can,” “could,” “may,” “predicts,” “potential,” “should,” “will,” “estimate,” “plans,” “projects,” “continuing,” “ongoing,” “expects,” “intends” and similar words or phrases. South Plains cautions that the forward-looking statements in this press release are based largely on South Plains’ expectations and are subject to a number of known and unknown risks and uncertainties that are subject to change based on factors which are, in many instances, beyond South Plains’ control. Factors that could cause such changes include, but are not limited to, the impact on us and our customers of a decline in general economic conditions and any regulatory responses thereto; potential recession in the United States and our market areas; the impacts related to or resulting from uncertainty in the banking industry as a whole; increased competition for deposits in our market areas and related changes in deposit customer behavior; the impact of changes in market interest rates, whether due to a continuation of the elevated interest rate environment or further reductions in interest rates and a resulting decline in net interest income; the lingering inflationary pressures, and the risk of the resurgence of elevated levels of inflation, in the United States and our market areas; the uncertain impacts of ongoing quantitative tightening and current and future monetary policies of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System; changes in unemployment rates in the United States and our market areas; adverse changes in customer spending and savings habits; declines in commercial real estate values and prices; a deterioration of the credit rating for U.S. long-term sovereign debt or uncertainty regarding United States fiscal debt, deficit and budget matters; cyber incidents or other failures, disruptions or breaches of our operational or security systems or infrastructure, or those of our third-party vendors or other service providers, including as a result of cyber-attacks; severe weather, natural disasters, acts of war or terrorism, geopolitical instability or other external events, including as a result of the policies of the current U.S. presidential administration or Congress; the impacts of tariffs, sanctions and other trade policies of the United States and its global trading counterparts and the resulting impact on the Company and its customers; competition and market expansion opportunities; changes in non-interest expenditures or in the anticipated benefits of such expenditures; the risks related to the development, implementation, use and management of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence and machine learnings; potential costs related to the impacts of climate change; current or future litigation, regulatory examinations or other legal and/or regulatory actions; and changes in applicable laws and regulations. Additional information regarding these risks and uncertainties to which South Plains’ business and future financial performance are subject is contained in South Plains’ most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q on file with the SEC, including the sections entitled “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” of such documents, and other documents South Plains files or furnishes with the SEC from time to time, which are available on the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov. Actual results, performance or achievements could differ materially from those contemplated, expressed, or implied by the forward-looking statements due to additional risks and uncertainties of which South Plains is not currently aware or which it does not currently view as, but in the future may become, material to its business or operating results. Due to these and other possible uncertainties and risks, the Company can give no assurance that the results contemplated in the forward-looking statements will be realized and readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements contained in this press release. Any forward-looking statements presented herein are made only as of the date of this press release, and South Plains does not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect changes in assumptions, new information, the occurrence of unanticipated events, or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. All forward-looking statements, express or implied, included in the press release are qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement.

Contact:	Mikella Newsom, Chief Risk Officer and Secretary
	(866) 771-3347
	investors@city.bank

Source: South Plains Financial, Inc.


South Plains Financial, Inc. Consolidated Financial Highlights – (Unaudited) (Dollars in thousands, except share data)

	As of and for the quarter ended
	June 30, 2025			March 31, 2025			December 31, 2024			September 30, 2024			June 30, 2024
Selected Income Statement Data:
Interest income	$	64,135		$	59,922		$	61,324		$	61,640		$	59,208
Interest expense		21,632			21,395			22,776			24,346			23,320
Net interest income		42,503			38,527			38,548			37,294			35,888
Provision for credit losses		2,500			420			1,200			495			1,775
Noninterest income		12,165			10,625			13,319			10,635			12,709
Noninterest expense		33,543			33,030			29,948			33,128			32,572
Income tax expense		4,020			3,408			4,222			3,094			3,116
Net income		14,605			12,294			16,497			11,212			11,134
Per Share Data (Common Stock):
Net earnings, basic	$	0.90		$	0.75		$	1.01		$	0.68		$	0.68
Net earnings, diluted		0.86			0.72			0.96			0.66			0.66
Cash dividends declared and paid		0.15			0.15			0.15			0.14			0.14
Book value		27.98			27.33			26.67			27.04			25.45
Tangible book value (non-GAAP)		26.70			26.05			25.40			25.75			24.15
Weighted average shares outstanding, basic		16,231,627			16,415,862			16,400,361			16,386,079			16,425,360
Weighted average shares outstanding, dilutive		16,886,993			17,065,599			17,161,646			17,056,959			16,932,077
Shares outstanding at end of period		16,230,475			16,235,647			16,455,826			16,386,627			16,424,021
Selected Period End Balance Sheet Data:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	470,496		$	536,300		$	359,082		$	471,167		$	298,006
Investment securities		570,000			571,527			577,240			606,889			591,031
Total loans held for investment		3,098,978			3,075,860			3,055,054			3,037,375			3,094,273
Allowance for credit losses		45,010			42,968			43,237			42,886			43,173
Total assets		4,363,674			4,405,209			4,232,239			4,337,659			4,220,936
Interest-bearing deposits		2,740,179			2,826,055			2,685,366			2,720,880			2,672,948
Noninterest-bearing deposits		998,759			966,464			935,510			998,480			951,565
Total deposits		3,738,938			3,792,519			3,620,876			3,719,360			3,624,513
Borrowings		111,799			110,400			110,354			110,307			110,261
Total stockholders’ equity		454,074			443,743			438,949			443,122			417,985
Summary Performance Ratios:
Return on average assets (annualized)		1.34	%		1.16	%		1.53	%		1.05	%		1.07	%
Return on average equity (annualized)		13.05	%		11.30	%		14.88	%		10.36	%		10.83	%
Net interest margin ⁽¹⁾		4.07	%		3.81	%		3.75	%		3.65	%		3.63	%
Yield on loans		6.99	%		6.67	%		6.69	%		6.68	%		6.60	%
Cost of interest-bearing deposits		2.91	%		2.93	%		3.12	%		3.36	%		3.33	%
Efficiency ratio		61.11	%		66.90	%		57.50	%		68.80	%		66.72	%
Summary Credit Quality Data:
Nonperforming loans	$	10,463		$	6,467		$	24,023		$	24,693		$	23,452
Nonperforming loans to total loans held for investment		0.34	%		0.21	%		0.79	%		0.81	%		0.76	%
Other real estate owned	$	535		$	600		$	530		$	973		$	755
Nonperforming assets to total assets		0.25	%		0.16	%		0.58	%		0.59	%		0.57	%
Allowance for credit losses to total loans held for investment		1.45	%		1.40	%		1.42	%		1.41	%		1.40	%
Net charge-offs to average loans outstanding (annualized)		0.06	%		0.07	%		0.11	%		0.11	%		0.10	%

	As of and for the quarter ended
	June 30 2025			March 31, 2025			December 31, 2024			September 30, 2024			June 30, 2024
Capital Ratios:
Total stockholders’ equity to total assets		10.41	%		10.07	%		10.37	%		10.22	%		9.90	%
Tangible common equity to tangible assets (non-GAAP)		9.98	%		9.64	%		9.92	%		9.77	%		9.44	%
Common equity tier 1 to risk-weighted assets		13.86	%		13.59	%		13.53	%		13.25	%		12.61	%
Tier 1 capital to average assets		12.12	%		12.04	%		12.04	%		11.76	%		11.81	%
Total capital to risk-weighted assets		18.17	%		17.93	%		17.86	%		17.61	%		16.86	%

(1) Net interest margin is calculated as the annual net interest income, on a fully tax-equivalent basis, divided by average interest-earning assets.


South Plains Financial, Inc. Average Balances and Yields – (Unaudited) (Dollars in thousands)

	For the Three Months Ended
	June 30, 2025							June 30, 2024

	Average Balance		Interest		Yield/Rate			Average Balance		Interest		Yield/Rate
Assets
Loans	$	3,094,558	$	53,894		6.99	%	$	3,082,601	$	50,579		6.60	%
Debt securities – taxable		508,508		4,700		3.71	%		533,553		5,285		3.98	%
Debt securities – nontaxable		152,202		1,015		2.67	%		155,408		1,022		2.64	%
Other interest-bearing assets		456,818		4,747		4.17	%		225,720		2,545		4.53	%

Total interest-earning assets		4,212,086		64,356		6.13	%		3,997,282		59,431		5.98	%
Noninterest-earning assets		166,763							171,472

Total assets	$	4,378,849						$	4,168,754

Liabilities & stockholders’ equity
NOW, Savings, MMDA’s	$	2,326,779		15,890		2.74	%	$	2,221,427		17,652		3.20	%
Time deposits		438,697		4,172		3.81	%		392,778		3,977		4.07	%
Short-term borrowings		18		–		0.00	%		3		–		0.00	%
Notes payable & other long-term borrowings		–		–		0.00	%		–		–		0.00	%
Subordinated debt		64,031		835		5.23	%		63,845		835		5.26	%
Junior subordinated deferrable interest debentures		46,393		735		6.35	%		46,393		856		7.42	%

Total interest-bearing liabilities		2,875,918		21,632		3.02	%		2,724,446		23,320		3.44	%
Demand deposits		990,343							960,106
Other liabilities		63,679							70,854
Stockholders’ equity		448,909							413,348

Total liabilities & stockholders’ equity	$	4,378,849						$	4,168,754

Net interest income			$	42,724						$	36,111
Net interest margin ⁽²⁾						4.07	%						3.63	%

(1) Average loan balances include nonaccrual loans and loans held for sale.
(2) Net interest margin is calculated as the annualized net interest income, on a fully tax-equivalent basis, divided by average interest-earning assets.


South Plains Financial, Inc. Average Balances and Yields – (Unaudited) (Dollars in thousands)

	For the Six Months Ended
	June 30, 2025							June 30, 2024

	Average Balance		Interest		Yield/Rate			Average Balance		Interest		Yield/Rate
Assets
Loans	$	3,084,563	$	104,471		6.83	%	$	3,048,569	$	99,519		6.56	%
Debt securities – taxable		509,431		9,392		3.72	%		543,817		10,796		3.99	%
Debt securities – nontaxable		152,716		2,029		2.68	%		155,831		2,046		2.64	%
Other interest-bearing assets		421,899		8,606		4.11	%		262,345		6,020		4.61	%

Total interest-earning assets		4,168,609		124,498		6.02	%		4,010,562		118,381		5.94	%
Noninterest-earning assets		169,222							177,882

Total assets	$	4,337,831						$	4,188,444

Liabilities & stockholders’ equity
NOW, Savings, MMDA’s	$	2,314,562		31,401		2.74	%	$	2,253,704		35,649		3.18	%
Time deposits		440,297		8,488		3.89	%		383,816		7,643		4.00	%
Short-term borrowings		11		–		0.00	%		3		–		0.00	%
Notes payable & other long-term borrowings		–		–		0.00	%		–		–		0.00	%
Subordinated debt		64,008		1,670		5.26	%		63,822		1,670		5.26	%
Junior subordinated deferrable interest debentures		46,393		1,468		6.38	%		46,393		1,717		7.44	%

Total interest-bearing liabilities		2,865,271		43,027		3.03	%		2,747,738		46,679		3.42	%
Demand deposits		962,557							959,219
Other liabilities		64,875							70,856
Stockholders’ equity		445,128							410,631

Total liabilities & stockholders’ equity	$	4,337,831						$	4,188,444

Net interest income			$	81,471						$	71,702
Net interest margin ⁽²⁾						3.94	%						3.60	%

(1) Average loan balances include nonaccrual loans and loans held for sale.
(2) Net interest margin is calculated as the annualized net interest income, on a fully tax-equivalent basis, divided by average interest-earning assets.


South Plains Financial, Inc. Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited) (Dollars in thousands)

	As of
	June 30, 2025			December 31, 2024

Assets
Cash and due from banks	$	60,400		$	54,114
Interest-bearing deposits in banks		410,096			304,968
Securities available for sale		570,000			577,240
Loans held for sale		17,182			20,542
Loans held for investment		3,098,978			3,055,054
Less: Allowance for credit losses		(45,010	)		(43,237	)
Net loans held for investment		3,053,968			3,011,817
Premises and equipment, net		51,329			52,951
Goodwill		19,315			19,315
Intangible assets		1,417			1,720
Mortgage servicing rights		25,134			26,292
Other assets		154,833			163,280
Total assets	$	4,363,674		$	4,232,239

Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity
Noninterest-bearing deposits	$	998,759		$	935,510
Interest-bearing deposits		2,740,179			2,685,366
Total deposits		3,738,938			3,620,876
Short-term borrowings		1,352			—
Subordinated debt		64,054			63,961
Junior subordinated deferrable interest debentures		46,393			46,393
Other liabilities		58,863			62,060
Total liabilities		3,909,600			3,793,290
Stockholders’ Equity
Common stock		16,230			16,456
Additional paid-in capital		90,268			97,287
Retained earnings		407,822			385,827
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)		(60,246	)		(60,621	)
Total stockholders’ equity		454,074			438,949
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	4,363,674		$	4,232,239


South Plains Financial, Inc. Consolidated Statements of Income (Unaudited) (Dollars in thousands)

	Three Months Ended				Six Months Ended
	June 30, 2025		June 30, 2024		June 30, 2025		June 30, 2024

Interest income:
Loans, including fees	$	53,886	$	50,571	$	104,456	$	99,503
Other		10,249		8,637		19,601		18,432
Total interest income		64,135		59,208		124,057		117,935
Interest expense:
Deposits		20,062		21,629		39,889		43,292
Subordinated debt		835		835		1,670		1,670
Junior subordinated deferrable interest debentures		735		856		1,468		1,717
Other		–		–		–		–
Total interest expense		21,632		23,320		43,027		46,679
Net interest income		42,503		35,888		81,030		71,256
Provision for credit losses		2,500		1,775		2,920		2,605
Net interest income after provision for credit losses		40,003		34,113		78,110		68,651
Noninterest income:
Service charges on deposits		2,098		1,949		4,239		3,762
Mortgage banking activities		3,606		3,397		5,719		7,342
Bank card services and interchange fees		3,771		4,052		7,150		7,113
Other		2,690		3,311		5,682		5,901
Total noninterest income		12,165		12,709		22,790		24,118
Noninterest expense:
Salaries and employee benefits		19,708		19,199		39,149		38,187
Net occupancy expense		3,972		4,029		7,999		7,949
Professional services		1,874		1,738		3,604		3,221
Marketing and development		919		860		1,824		1,614
Other		7,070		6,746		13,997		13,531
Total noninterest expense		33,543		32,572		66,573		64,502
Income before income taxes		18,625		14,250		34,327		28,267
Income tax expense		4,020		3,116		7,428		6,259
Net income	$	14,605	$	11,134	$	26,899	$	22,008


South Plains Financial, Inc. Loan Composition (Unaudited) (Dollars in thousands)

	As of
	June 30, 2025		December 31, 2024

Loans:
Commercial Real Estate	$	1,085,309	$	1,119,063
Commercial – Specialized		379,068		388,955
Commercial – General		620,934		557,371
Consumer:
1-4 Family Residential		589,935		566,400
Auto Loans		258,193		254,474
Other Consumer		63,589		64,936
Construction		101,950		103,855
Total loans held for investment	$	3,098,978	$	3,055,054


South Plains Financial, Inc. Deposit Composition (Unaudited) (Dollars in thousands)

	As of
	June 30, 2025		December 31, 2024

Deposits:
Noninterest-bearing deposits	$	998,759	$	935,510
NOW & other transaction accounts		1,244,023		498,718
MMDA & other savings		1,072,010		1,741,988
Time deposits		424,146		444,660
Total deposits	$	3,738,938	$	3,620,876


South Plains Financial, Inc. Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures (Unaudited) (Dollars in thousands)

	For the quarter ended
	June 30, 2025		March 31, 2025		December 31, 2024		September 30, 2024		June 30, 2024
Pre-tax, pre-provision income
Net income	$	14,605	$	12,294	$	16,497	$	11,212	$	11,134
Income tax expense		4,020		3,408		4,222		3,094		3,116
Provision for credit losses		2,500		420		1,200		495		1,775
Pre-tax, pre-provision income	$	21,125	$	16,122	$	21,919	$	14,801	$	16,025

	As of
	June 30, 2025			March 31, 2025			December 31, 2024			September 30, 2024			June 30, 2024
Tangible common equity
Total common stockholders’ equity	$	454,074		$	443,743		$	438,949		$	443,122		$	417,985
Less: goodwill and other intangibles		(20,732	)		(20,884	)		(21,035	)		(21,197	)		(21,379	)

Tangible common equity	$	433,342		$	422,859		$	417,914		$	421,925		$	396,606

Tangible assets
Total assets	$	4,363,674		$	4,405,209		$	4,232,239		$	4,337,659		$	4,220,936
Less: goodwill and other intangibles		(20,732	)		(20,884	)		(21,035	)		(21,197	)		(21,379	)

Tangible assets	$	4,342,942		$	4,384,325		$	4,211,204		$	4,316,462		$	4,199,557

Shares outstanding		16,230,475			16,235,647			16,455,826			16,386,627			16,424,021

Total stockholders’ equity to total assets		10.41	%		10.07	%		10.37	%		10.22	%		9.90	%
Tangible common equity to tangible assets		9.98	%		9.64	%		9.92	%		9.77	%		9.44	%
Book value per share	$	27.98		$	27.33		$	26.67		$	27.04		$	25.45
Tangible book value per share	$	26.70		$	26.05		$	25.40		$	25.75		$	24.15

The MIL Network –

July 17, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: Senators Rosen, Hyde-Smith, Kelly and Reps. Houlahan, Baird Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Support Workers Entering or Returning to STEM Careers

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)

Legislation Would Help Businesses Bring On Mid-Career Workers Seeking To Return To Or Transition Into STEM Jobs
WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), and Mark Kelly (D-AZ) introduced the STEM Restoring Employment Skills through Targeted Assistance, Re-entry, and Training (RESTART) Act. This bipartisan legislation would provide funding to support mid-career internships, known as “returnships,” for workers seeking to return to or transition into the STEM workforce. Representatives Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) and Jim Baird (R-IN) have also introduced identical bipartisan legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.
“When we invest in STEM education and workforce development, we can open the door to successful careers in some of the most in-demand industries,” said Senator Rosen. “I’m glad to introduce this bipartisan bill to help give workers the training and tools they need to enter new STEM careers. I’ll keep working across party lines to make sure all Nevadans have the skills needed to fill good-paying jobs.”
“Many skilled professionals step away from the workforce, but face significant barriers when trying to return, especially in technical fields where innovation moves fast,” said Senator Hyde-Smith. “Our legislation equips small and mid-sized businesses with the tools to tap into this valuable talent pool. This will help hardworking Americans reconnect with meaningful careers while growing the STEM workforce in states like Mississippi and beyond.”
“Arizona’s 21st century economy depends on a strong STEM workforce, and that means making sure talented workers who’ve taken time away or are looking to transition into STEM fields have a real pathway back in,” said Senator Kelly. “This effort will help small businesses tap into an underutilized talent pool while giving Arizonans the support they need to reenter the workforce and succeed in high-paying careers.”
“As a former Air Force engineer and chemistry teacher, I know that building a strong STEM workforce is essential not only for creating good-paying jobs, but also for safeguarding our national security,” said Representative Houlahan. “Whether it’s biotechnology, quantum computing, or clean energy, the global race for innovation is accelerating, and we can’t afford to leave talent on the sidelines. The bipartisan STEM RESTART Act will help mid-career professionals and those returning to the workforce enter high-demand STEM fields so we can strengthen our economy, compete globally, and protect America’s leadership in emerging technologies. I’m proud to reintroduce this commonsense legislation, which is a win for both businesses and workers across our Commonwealth and country.”
“If we want to maintain our global competitive edge and continue to lead the world in innovation, we must ensure we have a well-equipped STEM workforce now and empower future generations in STEM fields,” said Congressman Baird. “A robust STEM workforce is also vital to our economic prosperity and national security, especially when up against the threat of Communist China. I thank my colleagues in the House and Senate for their work on this bipartisan legislation to equip Hoosiers who want to return to the STEM workforce with the tools they need to fill job openings and build the greatest economy in history.”
“The STEM RESTART Act is a forward-thinking investment in our nation’s workforce,” said Chris Heavey, Interim President of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. “By supporting mid-career professionals reentering the STEM fields, this bill strengthens innovation, expands opportunity, and ensures that talent and experience are not left behind.”
“The Society of Women Engineers is thrilled to see the STEM RESTART Act reintroduced in 2025. As the nation continues to rebuild a strong and inclusive STEM workforce, this legislation is more critical than ever. Hundreds of thousands of STEM professionals have stepped away from technical careers in recent years, and research shows most want to return—but face steep barriers. Grants for structured ‘returnships’ give mid-career professionals real, paid pathways back into meaningful STEM roles,” said Karen Horting, Executive Director & CEO of the Society of Women Engineers. “SWE and our 50,000 plus members fully support this bipartisan, bicameral effort to bridge talent gaps, bolster small and midsize businesses, and drive innovation. We urge lawmakers to pass the STEM RESTART Act as soon as possible and reaffirm our collective commitment to supporting women and others who pause their careers, as well as the country’s economic growth and global competitiveness.”
The STEM RESTART Act has been endorsed by the Society of Women Engineers, STEM Education Coalition, AnitaB.org, Nevada System of Higher Education, College of Southern Nevada, Vegas Chamber, Henderson Chamber of Commerce, Nevada State University, and University of Nevada, Las Vegas.
Senator Rosen has been a leader in advocating for tech innovation and improving access to STEM careers. She helped pass the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act, which invests $52 billion in domestic computer chip manufacturing to help address the current shortage. Additionally, Rosen helped write the broadband section of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which is delivering $65 billion to make high-speed internet more available and affordable to Americans. In 2020, Senator Rosen’s bipartisan Building Blocks of STEM Act, which breaks down barriers to allow more young girls to study computer science, was signed into law.

MIL OSI USA News –

July 17, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Slap a label on it! Making it easier for consumers to shop for Internet services
Source: Government of Canada News

Remarks by Brad Callaghan, Associate Deputy Commissioner of the Policy, Planning and Advocacy Directorate; and Jonathan Fonberg, Senior Behavioural Scientist, Behavioural Insights Unit

Opening statement at CRTC public hearing re: Telecom Notice of Consultation CRTC 2024-318

June 13, 2025

Gatineau, Quebec

(As prepared for delivery)

Good afternoon, Mr. Chair, Commissioners and Commission staff. Thank you for the opportunity to appear here today on unceded Algonquin Anishinabeg land just north of the Kichi Zibi.

My name is Brad Callaghan, and I am the Associate Deputy Commissioner of the Policy, Planning and Advocacy Directorate at the Competition Bureau of Canada.

Let me begin by introducing the members of our panel. To my right is:
- Ben Klass: Competition Law Officer, Policy, Planning and Advocacy Directorate; and
- Derek Leschinsky: Senior Counsel, Competition Bureau Legal Services.
To my left is:
- Jonathan Fonberg, Senior Behavioural Scientist, Behavioural Insights Unit; and
- Émilie-Ève Gravel, head of the Competition Bureau’s Behavioural Insights Unit.
The Competition Bureau is an independent law enforcement agency that protects and promotes competition for the benefit of Canadian consumers and businesses. We are an evidence-based agency we’re not influenced by commercial interests, but by the public interest just like the CRTC.

We hope that our participation in this consultation will help to deliver outcomes that serve the public interest by creating the conditions for competition.

Telecommunications services like home internet and mobile connectivity have become an essential part of modern life. Since the pandemic, Canadians across the country have come to rely on their connections more than ever before to stay in touch with family and community, to learn, work, play, and to do business.

Policies promoting marketplace competition are helping get us to a place where most people have access to a range of innovative services that meet their needs at affordable prices.

At the same time, your consumer codes for wireless, internet, and television services have helped empower consumers to make choices between services and providers on their own terms.

Despite these positive steps, there are signs telling us there’s still work to be done and competition is key to achieving your policy objectives.

So, as technology, markets, and patterns of communication evolve, we see this consultation as an opportunity to build on past successes and keep the momentum going.

In our submission, we’ve shared several recommendations that we hope will help improve competitive dynamics and consumer choice in Canada’s telecom markets.

Our recommendations are grounded in the general principle that good information and freedom from barriers to switching are key ingredients in the recipe for competition. When either or both of these components are lacking, it makes room for the exercise of market power, which can be harmful for consumers and the economy more broadly.

To develop our input, we conducted desk research, consulted with stakeholders including other domestic and international regulators and engaged our behavioural insights experts, who are here with us today, to sharpen the focus on providing evidence-based best practices for empowering consumers.

So, with that in mind, I’ll now briefly outline our recommendations and some of the key ideas why we think adopting them will help.

First, we support the adoption of a ‘nutrition label’ format for providing customers with information.

Four out of five participants in the CRTC’s public opinion research felt that ‘standardized information in a recognizable format, like the nutrition label but for home Internet services’ would be beneficial.

We agree the label is a good idea and Canadians are already familiar with it: their experience in the food products sector shows that labels are an effective, adaptable tool for conveying complex yet crucial information about goods and services.

From a competition perspective, enabling people to more easily compare services and providers gives them the power to make choices based on their own specific needs and circumstances. When consumers have good information that they can act on to switch, providers will work harder to make sure people’s needs are being met.

The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has already put in the legwork to adapt the nutrition label for the fixed and mobile broadband services. We believe that the record of their extensive rulemaking process represents a helpful resource to consult as the CRTC develops its own ‘made for Canada’ version of the label.

So what does a ‘made for Canada’ label look like?

For the most part, we think it should look a lot like the FCC’s label information about price, performance, and other important service characteristics is presented in a format that’s already familiar for Canadian consumers from their experience in the grocery aisle with just a few key differences.

In our view, the monthly price on a ‘made for Canada’ label should show an ‘all-in’ price that includes all fixed and obligatory charges or fees as opposed to the approach favoured by the FCC where a baseline monthly price is followed by additional monthly fees. The reason is that Canada’s Competition Act prohibits ‘drip pricing’. Keeping the label consistent with the drip pricing provisions means making sure that the carriers can not be permitted to display a price that is unattainable because of additional fixed and obligatory charges or fees that drive up the price consumers ultimately pay for their services.

Adopting an ‘all-in’ approach to pricing would help the label to work in harmony with the Competition Act’s provisions on drip pricing.

Similarly, all relevant ads and information contained in policies and disclaimers must be consistent with information in the label. To the extent that the label refers or links to disclaimers, they cannot be used or relied upon to restrict, contradict, or negate any marketing messages, or otherwise cure misleading or deceptive marketing practices.

Overall, this approach would help keep information simple, relevant, and it would facilitate apples-to-apples comparisons.

Second, we think the label would benefit wireless phone customers and competition in that market, too.

Like home internet services, wireless phones are essential for nearly all Canadians. CCTS and CRTC data show that Canadians have similar issues with both services, too.

Every Canadian wireless network operator also offers home Internet – meaning that they will already be developing labels as a result of this proceeding.

From our perspective, extending the labels’ application to wireless phone services could deliver significant benefits for minimal additional cost. Doing so would help to simplify and harmonize the consumer information environment in general while avoiding the need to duplicate efforts down the road.

Third, we think the labels would be especially beneficial for customers who are actively shopping, and for subscribers whose contracts are about to expire.

Dr. Fonberg will explain how we can think about making sure the labels are as useful for consumers as possible.

[Jonathan Fonberg, Senior Behavioural Scientist]

Thank you.

Consumers are less likely to engage with information if the effort required to identify and understand that information is high.

That means difficulties in accessing critical information about broadband plans and alternatives can create barriers to switching.

Our recommendations draw on key principles and best practises from behavioural science.

They aim to empower consumers by reducing the effort required to identify and understand critical information; thereby reducing barriers to switching.

To that end, these recommendations address both the format and availability of the label.

First, the label design should allow consumers to quickly grasp key information. It should be easily accessible and comprehensible.

This is intended to reduce the effort required by customers to interpret complex plan information.

But beyond what’s in the label, when and where it’s found is also important.

We recommend that it be widely available anywhere specific plan information is displayed. We are also asking that the label be included in notices sent to customers whose contracts are set to expire.

This will reduce the need for customers to search for key details buried in the fine print, making the process more convenient and increasing their chances of engaging with it.

These recommendations are intended to ensure that customers will be able to easily access the label when they need it the most, maximizing its benefit.

[Brad Callaghan, Associate Deputy Commissioner]

Thank you, Dr. Fonberg.

The CRTC has taken important steps in recent years to empower consumers in their relationships with their service providers. Ensuring that phone numbers are portable, placing limits on contract length, and unlocking devices are just some of the actions the CRTC has taken to foster competition in the marketplace for the benefit of consumers and the economy.

The Competition Bureau is pleased that the CRTC continues to build on these achievements. A broadband nutrition label can put consumers in the driver’s seat of the switching process and improve competition in telecommunication markets. With clear, standardized information to compare their options, consumers can take advantage of competition more easily, and companies will compete harder to keep them.

We’d like to thank the Commission for the opportunity to participate in these proceedings. We will endeavour to answer any questions you may have.

MIL OSI Canada News –
July 17, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Joint Agriculture Chairmen’s Ag Issues Summit Announced for August 21, 2025

Source: US State of Georgia

ATLANTA (July 16, 2025) —State Senator Russ Goodman (R–Cogdell), Chairman of the Senate Agriculture and Consumer Affairs Committee, and State Representative Robert Dickey (R–Musella), Chairman of the House Agriculture and Consumer Affairs Committee, will host the annual Joint Ag Issues Summit on Thursday, August 21, 2025, in Perry, Georgia.

The summit will bring together lawmakers, industry leaders, and members of Georgia’s farming community to discuss the top issues impacting the state’s number one industry. The event will feature key policy updates and a forward-looking agenda focused on protecting Georgia’s agricultural future.

“This summit is about making sure farmers have a seat at the table as we shape policy at the State Capitol,” said Sen. Russ Goodman. “Chairman Dickey and I are both farmers ourselves. We know what’s at stake, and we’re committed to listening, learning, and leading on the issues that matter most to Georgia agriculture.”

“As farmers, we know firsthand the challenges and opportunities facing Georgia’s agriculture industry,” said Rep. Dickey. “The Ag Issues Summit is a vital chance for us to come together – farmers, lawmakers and industry leaders – to listen, learn and plan for the future of our state’s number one industry. I’m proud to help lead this effort as we work to strengthen and protect Georgia’s agriculture industry for the generations to come.”

The Summit will convene in the Miller Murphy Howard Building at 401 Larry Walker Pkwy, Perry, Georgia 31069. Registration will begin at 9:00 A.M., and the official program will start at 9:30 A.M. Coffee and lunch will be provided. A detailed agenda will be released in the weeks ahead.

Attendees are encouraged to RSVP by Friday, August 8, either online here or by emailing Rachel.Whitted@senate.ga.gov.

# # # #
Sen. Russ Goodman serves as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Agriculture and Consumer Affairs. He represents Senate District 8 which includes Atkinson, Clinch, Echols, Lanier, Lowndes and Pierce Counties and a large portion of Ware County. He may be reached at 404.656.7454 or at russ.goodman@senate.ga.gov

Representative Robert Dickey represents the citizens of District 134, which includes Crawford and Upson counties, as well as portions of Lamar and Peach counties. He was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2011 and currently serves as Chairman of the Agriculture & Consumer Affairs Committee. He also serves on the Appropriations Subcommittee on Education, Banks and Banking, Energy, Utilities and Telecommunications, Higher Education, Natural Resources and Environment and Ways and Means committees, as well as the Special Committee on Resource Management.

For all media inquiries, reach out to SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.

MIL OSI USA News –

July 17, 2025
MIL-OSI: The Elon Code Releases 2025 Transparency Update on Digital Cognitive Optimization
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

San Antonio, July 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

What You’ll Learn

This release outlines The Elon Code’s updated 2025 structure as a digital-first cognitive enhancement platform. Readers will explore how the program integrates non-ingestible neuro-alignment techniques, behavioral science models, and performance training sequences rooted in theta/gamma brainwave logic. Discover why more users are turning to structured digital routines over traditional pills or supplement stacks — and what separates this MIT-modeled system from standard brain-training apps.

Visit the Official The Elon Code Site to explore the latest digital training system transparency update.

Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only. The Elon Code is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. No medical claims are made or implied. Always consult a healthcare provider before use.

Inside the 2025 Shift in Cognitive Training Protocols

The performance enhancement landscape in 2025 has shifted toward precision, agency, and non-pharmaceutical tools. The Elon Code has aligned its evolution with this shift, focusing on fully digital experiences rather than supplement-based approaches. Consumers are increasingly seeking structured behavioral systems that support clarity and consistency, without the variables associated with physical ingredients or proprietary compounds. As a result, the brand has eliminated any association with nutritional interventions and instead built its system entirely around cognitive scaffolding, identity-driven repetition, and modular behavior design.

Explore the Full Elon Code Stack Lineup to understand how this approach contrasts with physical supplementation models.

The Elon Code’s new model is a software-first framework. Users don’t ingest anything. Instead, they engage with digitally sequenced experiences designed to mirror core neurobehavioral functions. The 2025 update enhances flexibility, reduces friction, and increases clarity around what the product is—a structured system for building habits, not a treatment protocol.

Understanding the Science Behind The Elon Code’s Digital Strategy

Scientific inspiration behind The Elon Code stems from neural learning models, cognitive psychology, and performance rhythm research. This system embraces theta-gamma phase synchronization — a neural coupling pattern seen during learning and working memory tasks — as the conceptual engine for its structured delivery method.

Rather than replicating research directly, The Elon Code applies metaphorical alignment: modules are time-gated and layered to simulate the rhythm of neuroplastic reinforcement. Tools include:
- Guided focus sessions using language-based priming
- Audio protocols designed for internal pacing and external structure
- Workflow builders modeled after known cognitive sequencing patterns
See Details for The Elon Code and how its architecture avoids chemical dependency by design.

This approach doesn’t diagnose or treat. It simply maps routines to predictable patterns of engagement using behavior science as a guide. In this way, the program becomes a mirror, enabling users to self-regulate and shape their daily performance rituals.

Who This Digital Optimization System Might Serve Best in 2025

While many tools in the cognitive space target specific ailments or use claims to drive conversion, The Elon Code focuses solely on voluntary behavior alignment. Its ideal audience includes:
- Founders, freelancers, and digital strategists optimizing workflow depth
- Learners and knowledge workers building focus and routine autonomy
- Professionals avoiding stimulant-based energy tools
- Creators building identity-driven routines anchored in rhythm, not hype
Users who value control, minimalism, and clarity often find this system a compelling alternative to overstimulated cognitive stacks or vague promise-based apps. Its structure favors those who want to earn their transformation through consistency, not dependency.

Digital Module Highlights: A Closer Look at What’s Inside

The Elon Code consists of interactive routines, reflection prompts, and digital tools for reinforcing cognitive anchoring. There are no physical ingredients. No downloads. Just access to:
- Morning Alignment Modules (mental rehearsal, sequence priming)
- Midday Momentum Tracks (focus retention, emotional reset)
- Evening Integration Protocols (learning lock-in, rhythm review)
These modules are arranged in a non-linear path users can revisit or repeat. Unlike generic productivity courses, these sequences use targeted language design and anchored repetition principles to train consistency over novelty. The goal is rhythm, not stimulation.

Discover the Structure Behind Flow State Support Protocols that power this rhythm-first model.

How The Elon Code Compares to Traditional Cognitive Products

Most cognitive products in the performance category fall into one of two camps: pharmacological (nootropics, energy boosters) or content-based (books, lectures, apps). The Elon Code stands apart by functioning as neither. It is not a product in the traditional sense. It is a protocol.

Whereas many competitors emphasize what goes into the brain, The Elon Code emphasizes what comes out through behavior. The structure is its benefit. There are no bioactive compounds or passive videos. Everything is interactive, time-released, and designed to close the intention-action gap.

This transparency-first model rejects trends and builds trust through clarity: no testimonials, no exaggerated claims, no urgency. Just rhythm, repetition, and scaffolding. This resonates with a 2025 audience tired of empty promises and quick fixes.

Realistic Experiences: What Users Might Notice with Regular Use

While outcomes vary, users consistently report improved execution behavior. These experiences often begin as small shifts—waking with clearer purpose, initiating tasks with less internal resistance, or noticing fewer interruptions in daily concentration. Rather than positioning itself as a tool for instant gratification, The Elon Code builds a momentum loop. The more users engage with the modules, the more reliable their behavioral anchors become.

Some users have noted greater resilience during high-pressure work cycles, fewer instances of digital drift, and smoother transitions between focus modes. These responses aren’t presented as universal truths but as common experiential trends linked to routine-based reinforcement. Importantly, users who journal or track mood alongside program usage may see amplified outcomes due to the reflection component baked into the platform.

Because The Elon Code is not a supplement, there is no expectation of a “kick in.” Instead, the system relies on:
- Repeat exposure to internal cues
- Environmental rhythm pairing
- Daily decision reduction
Learn More About The Elon Code’s 2025 Formulations and how they emphasize neural rhythm training without artificial triggers.

Key Considerations When Exploring Digital Neuro-Tools in 2025

With growing interest in behavioral enhancement, the risk of pseudoscience has never been greater. Platforms that promise effortless transformation or make unsupported medical claims often dominate headlines, but savvy users in 2025 are digging deeper. They’re evaluating frameworks not by aesthetic or testimonials but by epistemological integrity—how clearly the system explains what it does and what it doesn’t.

The Elon Code takes a position of radical transparency. Every module, prompt, and progression track is described in terms of rhythm, repetition, and behavioral alignment—not vague neuroscience. The language used avoids jargon unless it’s grounded in well-established cognitive science. That makes the system approachable without dumbing down the underlying principles.

It’s also designed for users who value experimentation. The Elon Code supports layered habit stacking, time-of-day testing, and internal state journaling so users can personalize their optimization cycle without needing external validation. This level of self-direction is rare in commercial cognitive tools, and it’s something high-agency users specifically seek out.

The Elon Code meets these criteria while staying within clear ethical and regulatory boundaries. Its commitment is to clarity and calibration, not hype or health claims.

Inside The Elon Code’s Digital Platform for 2025

Beyond individual modules, what distinguishes The Elon Code in 2025 is its ecosystem approach. Users aren’t just given content—they’re given infrastructure. From the moment a user signs in, the interface guides them toward self-calibration. The platform encourages morning planning rituals, midday rhythm rechecks, and evening wind-down analysis without requiring external tools.

The platform is responsive to user data in non-invasive ways. It flags skipped modules, tracks focus windows, and offers nudges when energy dips are detected through pattern analysis. While it collects no biometric data, the behavioral model adapts based on engagement timing and duration.

The full system includes access to:
- Sequence Map Dashboard
- Habit Stack Engine
- Identity Prompt Archive
The 2025 update adds:
- Session tracking
- Rhythm deviation feedback
- Expanded user onboarding for flow state compatibility
This infrastructure replaces supplements, stack plans, and guru systems with something simple: your own system, reflected back and restructured for scale.

Where to Learn More

Readers can Explore the Full Elon Code Stack Lineup to dive into every element of its 2025 system architecture.

Or See Details for The Elon Code through a behavioral lens by visiting the transparency portal.

Or Discover the Structure Behind Flow State Support Protocols to examine how each module fits into broader neural rhythm theory.

Contact & Company Info

The Elon Code
Program Support: https://theeloncode.com/help/contact/?
Order Support: https://www.clkbank.com/#!/
Toll-Free (US): +1 800-390-6035
International: +1 208-345-4245 (24/7)

Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only. The Elon Code is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult a healthcare provider before use.

The MIL Network –
July 17, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: US Department of Labor, Small Business Administration sign new agreement to support domestic manufacturing

Source: US Department of Labor

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor and the U.S. Small Business Administration today signed a Memorandum of Understanding to support American manufacturing. The agreement, which will enhance collaboration and data-sharing across key programs, is designed to cultivate a pipeline of skilled workers to support domestic producers – 98 percent of whom are small businesses. The agreement aligns directly with President Trump’s ongoing efforts to restore American industry and jobs.

“Under President Trump’s leadership, this Administration is working tirelessly to restore America as the world’s manufacturing superpower – securing trillions in investments and bringing hundreds of thousands of jobs back home. I am thrilled to partner with Administrator Loeffler to usher in a new Golden Age of American manufacturing,” said Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer. “Through this agreement, the Department of Labor will collaborate with the Small Business Administration to help ensure America’s workforce is ready to seize these opportunities by expanding Registered Apprenticeships and other hands-on training programs that will benefit both small and large manufacturers.”

“Thanks to President Trump’s commitment to restoring American industrial dominance, this Administration is already bringing back jobs, economic independence, and national security,” said SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler. “The vast majority of U.S. manufacturers are small businesses, and I’ve heard firsthand walking factory floors with business leaders that they are spring-loaded for growth with the America First agenda. I’m excited to work alongside Secretary Chavez-DeRemer to cultivate a pipeline of skilled workers and capital to support their growth in a powerful new era of Made in America.”

Under the agreement, the agencies will expand data-sharing and coordination on programs such as the department’s Registered Apprenticeship Program and the Veterans’ Employment and Training Service. The Small Business Administration will likewise offer cross-agency training on loan programs to support manufacturing, including the 7a and 504 loan programs. This collaboration will streamline interagency cooperation and awareness while maximizing resource delivery to domestic manufacturers and workers.

Read Memorandum of Understanding between the Department of Labor and Small Business Administration.

MIL OSI USA News –

July 17, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: Press Release: Agencies Issue Joint Proposal to Rescind 2023 Community Reinvestment Act Final Rule

Source: US Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation FDIC

WASHINGTON – Federal bank regulatory agencies today jointly issued a proposal to rescind the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) final rule issued in October 2023 and replace it with the prior CRA regulations that were originally adopted by the agencies in 1995, with certain technical amendments. If adopted, the proposal would restore certainty in the CRA framework for stakeholders in light of pending litigation and limit regulatory burden on banks, while ensuring that banks continue to serve their communities.

Because the 2023 final rule is subject to legal action and has not taken effect, the agencies continue to apply the 1995 regulations to banks today.

Comments on the attached proposal are due 30 days after date of publication in the Federal Register.

ATTACHMENTS:

# # #

MEDIA CONTACT:
Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation
Julianne Fisher Breitbeil
(202) 898-6895

Federal Reserve Board
Chelsea Grate
(202) 452-2955

Office of the Comptroller of the Currency
Stephanie Collins
(202) 649-6870

The FDIC does not send unsolicited email. If this publication has reached you in error, or if you no longer wish to receive this service, please unsubscribe.

MIL OSI USA News –

July 17, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: NASA Software Catalog Puts Agency Solutions at Innovators’ Fingertips

Source: NASA

NASA’s latest open Software Catalog, released Wednesday, offers more than 1,200 downloadable codes developed by agency engineers that could enable faster solutions to energize the space economy and stimulate American ingenuity. The catalog is part of NASA’s effort to place advanced technologies, including agency software, into the hands of businesses, researchers, and entrepreneurs to foster economic growth and innovation.
Agency developers will provide more information about the Software Catalog, the only repository of its kind in the federal government, during NASA’s summer software webinar series beginning Tuesday, July 22.
“NASA has droves of talented experts creating software to automate elements of agency missions,” said Dan Lockney, program executive, Technology Transfer at NASA Headquarters in Washington. “The resulting efficiency benefits humankind, and its public value increases exponentially when the agency provides access to those software programs for companies, enabling them to save time and money, improve commercial offerings, and build their businesses.”
The four webinars accompanying this year’s NASA Software Catalog feature developers of popular programs for mission planning, systems design, propulsion analysis, and more, each consisting of a presentation followed by a live question-and-answer session.
Programs offered in NASA’s 2025-2026 Software Catalog are grouped into 15 categories that may be useful for organizations working with spacecraft and aircraft. For example, the Vehicle Management category includes a tool for designing satellite constellations and a software library for minimizing public safety risks around expendable launch vehicles. The Aeronautics section includes several programs that are widely used by industry for creating, modifying, and analyzing aircraft designs.
Although the categories have specific themes, the codes are meant to be useful to various innovators. Companies can use aircraft programs NASA wrote to design cars, trucks, and countless other products. The catalog’s Business Systems and Project Management section includes software for estimating project costs, building and assessing complex schedules, and uncovering root causes of mishaps. Other popular programs support 3D rendering for simulation and virtual reality, bring hyper-accuracy to GPS tracking, and analyze electrical power system architectures.
NASA released its first Software Catalog more than a decade ago in 2013, and since then, the agency’s annual rate of software downloads has skyrocketed, reaching up to 5,722 downloads in a single year.
The Software Catalog is a product of NASA’s Technology Transfer program, managed by the agency’s Space Technology Mission Directorate. NASA routinely makes improvements to the Software Catalog website, ensuring the process is fast and easy. Access restrictions apply to some software that may be limited to use by U.S. citizens or for U.S. government purposes only.
View and learn more about NASA’s Software Catalog by visiting:
https://software.nasa.gov
-end-
Jasmine HopkinsHeadquarters, Washington321-432-4624jasmine.s.hopkins@nasa.gov

MIL OSI USA News –

July 17, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth, Young, Colleagues Reintroduce Bipartisan Bill to Increase Investment in Small Businesses

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth

July 16, 2025

[WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D–IL) joined U.S. Senators Todd Young (R–IN), Ruben Gallego (D–AZ) and Jim Risch (R–ID) in reintroducing the Investing in Main Street Act to increase investment in small businesses by permitting banks to invest up to 15 percent of their capital in Small Business Investment Companies (SBIC).

“Small businesses are the backbone of our economy—when they grow, our economy grows,” said Duckworth. “Yet too many small business owners have trouble accessing affordable capital to grow their business and create new jobs in their communities. I am proud to join Senators Young, Risch and Gallego in introducing this bipartisan legislation to help get more dollars in the hands of small business owners in Illinois and across our nation.”

“The Small Business Investment Company program has provided critical support to countless Hoosier small businesses,” said Young. “Our legislation will help spur further investment in innovative startups and unlock capital for existing, high-growth small businesses across America.”

“Starting a small business gives those willing to work hard a shot at achieving the American dream. But without access to capital, it’s nearly impossible to get a small business off the ground,” said Gallego. “This commonsense, bipartisan bill helps unlock more capital for Main Street, empowering small businesses across the country to grow, innovate and create jobs. I’m proud to introduce it with my colleagues.”

“Idaho small businesses fuel our economy, employ our friends and family and are the lifeblood of our communities,” said Risch. “The Investing in Main Street Act supports our Gem State entrepreneurs’ access to early-stage capital by allowing banks to invest more into Small Business Investment Companies.”

In 1958, the Small Business Administration launched the SBIC program to facilitate and regulate investment from privately owned companies to U.S. small businesses. This program has successfully allowed more small businesses across America to expand their competitive edge, create more jobs and contribute to the local economy.

Copy of the bill text is available on Senator Duckworth’s website.

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MIL OSI USA News –

July 17, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth Stresses Urgent Need to Modernize Our Air Traffic Control Systems at Summit

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth

July 15, 2025

[WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation (CST) and Ranking Member of the Aviation Subcommittee—today underscored both the long-term and immediate actions the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) must take to improve and modernize our air traffic control systems in order to safeguard our aviation system and the flying public. At today’s Air Traffic Control Modernization Summit hosted by aviation industry stakeholders, Duckworth also emphasized her grave concerns over the Trump Administration firing hundreds of FAA employees and appointing a new FAA Administrator with an established track record of opposing the 1,500-hour pilot training standard, which is critical to ensuring our nation’s pilots are experienced and prepared for any scenario. Photos of the event can be found on Senator Duckworth’s website.

“The deadly DCA crash, spike in near misses and air traffic control equipment outages our nation has seen are terrifying, but they are not surprising,” said Duckworth. “I’ve been sounding the alarm about close calls and aging equipment for years because the urgent need to overhaul our air traffic control systems, which will take years, has been so clear for so long. But in addition to that long-term overhaul, FAA needs to ensure our current system remains safe—not fire hundreds of staff or reduce our nation’s pilot training gold standard.”

For years, Duckworth has been sounding the alarm that we must make these critical aviation safety investments immediately to prevent all-too-often near-misses from becoming catastrophic tragedies. Last Congress, Duckworth chaired two CST Aviation Subcommittee hearings—one last December and the other a year prior—to address our aviation industry’s chilling surge in near-deadly close calls and underscore the urgent need to improve air traffic control systems to protect the flying public.

Last week, Duckworth voted against the nomination of Bryan Bedford to serve as FAA Administrator after he refused to commit to upholding the 1,500-hour rule when she pressed him on the issue during his nomination hearing. Duckworth criticized Bedford for leaving the door open for him to unilaterally attempt to weaken this standard and produce less-prepared pilots despite the serious challenges our nation is facing with regard to aviation safety.

-30-

MIL OSI USA News –

July 17, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: H.R. 3351, Improving Access to Small Business Information Act

Source: US Congressional Budget Office

H.R. 3351 would exempt the Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation within the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) from most provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act. The bill would not affect requirements to estimate the burden of collecting information, verify that its collection is necessary, and ensure that people providing information are informed about how it will be used. Under the bill, the office would no longer be required to seek or obtain approval from the Office of Management and Budget to collect information or announce such collections in the Federal Register.

The exemption under the bill could reduce the SEC’s costs by an insignificant amount each year. Because the SEC is authorized to collect fees each year to offset its annual appropriation, CBO expects that the agency would adjust fees to match lower operating costs. On that basis, CBO estimates that the net effect on discretionary spending over the 2025-2030 period would be negligible, assuming appropriation actions consistent with that authority.

The CBO staff contact for this estimate is Aurora Swanson. The estimate was reviewed by H. Samuel Papenfuss, Deputy Director of Budget Analysis.

Phillip L. Swagel

Director, Congressional Budget Office

MIL OSI USA News –

July 17, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New city bus service confirmed

Source: Scotland – Highland Council

A new bus service covering the Crown/Kingsmills area of Inverness as well as Wester Inshes is set to be launched on Monday 4 August.

The new 100 bus service will be delivered by The Highland Council’s In-house bus team.

Chair of the Council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee said: “Following recent route changes by Stagecoach, our in-house team have stepped in to create this new service so residents and visitors can still enjoy regular and reliable public transport in and around Inverness.”

The 100 service will operate Monday to Friday, providing an off-peak connection between the city centre, Crown. Kingsmills, Raigmore Hospital, Inshes Retail Park, the Stevenson Road area, the UHI Campus and Inverness Retail & Business Park, with three journeys each way per day.

Cllr Gowans added: “I’d like to thank our team for their work to set up this service so quickly in response to the needs of communities. Having the ability to be flexible and to react to customer demands is one of main benefits of investing in council bus services.”

The timetable for the 100 service will be made available on the Council’s website.

16 Jul 2025

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MIL OSI United Kingdom –

July 17, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Latta, DeGette, Crenshaw and Dingell Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Reauthorize Improved Access to Over-the-Counter Medicines

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bob Latta (R-Bowling Green Ohio)

Recently, Congressman Bob Latta (OH-5), Congresswoman Diana DeGette (CO-1), Congressman Dan Crenshaw (TX-2) and Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-6) introduced the Over-the-Counter Monograph Drug User Fee Amendments (OMFUA), a bipartisan bill to reauthorize the Over-the-Counter Monograph User Fee Act that has improved access to over-the-counter medicines.

“The over-the-counter monograph drug user fee program (OMUFA) allows consumers to manage their own care safely and affordably. Five years ago, as the original sponsor of this legislation, my colleagues and I modernized how the FDA regulates most over-the-counter medicines by enacting OMUFA. These reforms transformed a 40-year-old system, making it more efficient, transparent, and open to innovation. I’m proud to lead the reauthorization of this critical program,” Latta said.

“Millions of Americans rely on over-the-counter medications every day, and FDA’s over-the-counter medicines program ensures those products are safe, effective, and accessible. I was proud to play a role in creating OMUFA and to see it through its first five years. Now, as we approach reauthorization, it’s time to build on that success and continue giving FDA the tools it needs to deliver trusted medicines to Amerians’ shelves,” DeGette said.

“This bipartisan bill empowers the FDA to review over-the-counter medicines quickly and efficiently — without compromising safety. It ensures Americans can trust that the products on their shelves are backed by the latest science, and spares the taxpayer a new obligation,” Crenshaw said.

“Nearly nine out of ten Americans regularly use over the counter medications to quickly, easily, and effectively manage a range of conditions. The Over-the-Counter Monograph Safety, Innovation, and Reform Act has been highly successful in improving OTC drug availability and safety. I’m leading this reauthorization with my bipartisan colleagues to ensure consumers continue to have safe access to the OTC products they depend on, and the U.S. remains a global leader in health and innovation,” Dingell said.

Today, Congressman Latta joined the Health Subcommittee hearing on legislative proposals to maintain and improve the public health workforce, rural health, and over the counter drugs, to discuss his bill, OMUFA. Watch the Congressman’s remarks here.

The OMUFA bill is endorsed by the Consumer Healthcare Products Association:

“CHPA applauds Representatives Latta, DeGette, Crenshaw and Dingell for their leadership in introducing this important reauthorization and for their continued support of self-care,” said CHPA President & CEO Scott Melville. “As the industry works to deliver safe, effective, and innovative OTC products to consumers, we look forward to working with Congress on refinements to the bill to ensure the final legislation maximizes the potential of monograph reform and can continue to provide savings and innovation to consumers. That includes inserting provisions into OMUFA to clarify how FDA evaluates the Generally Recognized as Safe and Effective (GRASE) standard, creating a clearer path for early agreement on data needs, and improving the efficiency of making product improvements while maintaining strong safety standards.”

MIL OSI USA News –

July 17, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Griffith Holds Legislative Hearing to Consider Public Health, Rural Health Care Bills

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA)

U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA), Chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health, held a legislative hearing entitled “Legislative Proposals to Maintain and Improve the Public Health Workforce, Rural Health, and Over-the-Counter Medicines.” Some of the proposals considered during the hearing reauthorize public health programs, contribute to rural health care access and help rural communities.

Following the hearing, Chairman Griffith issued the following statement:

“Congress is determined to reauthorize vital programs that provide rural communities critical access to health care.

“As the Health Subcommittee moves forward, I will continue to dedicate my Chairmanship to advancing policies that enable access to telehealth services, bolster our health care workforce, help administer health care to rural communities, like those in Southwest Virginia, and improve health care delivery to the nation.”

Congressman Griffith’s opening remarks in the hearing can be seen here or below.

Rep. Griffith’s questions to witnesses in the hearing can be seen here.

BACKGROUND

This July, Representative Griffith was named Chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health.

In his first public actions after being named Chairman, Representative Griffith visited multiple rural health care providers in Southwest Virginia.

H.R. 2493, Improving Care in Rural America Reauthorization Act of 2025, continues existing programs that include direct funding to rural underserved populations.

H.R. 3419, To amend the Public Health Service Act to reauthorize the telehealth network and telehealth resource centers grant programs, preserves and promotes the use of telehealth and telemedicine in the treatment of patients.

Another proposal reauthorizes programs related to health professions education. This bill helps fund the education, training and preparation of prospective health professionals.

Expiration of these public health programs will occur at the end of Fiscal Year 2025.

These bills will continue to be examined before potential consideration by the full House.

###

MIL OSI USA News –

July 17, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI— Hagerty Joins Mornings with Maria on Fox Business to Discuss Rescissions Package, GENIUS Act, Trump’s Strategy on Russia

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Tennessee Bill Hagerty

WASHINGTON—Yesterday, United States Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN), a member of the Senate Banking and Appropriations Committees and former U.S. Ambassador to Japan, joined Mornings with Maria on Fox Business to discuss Senate action on the rescissions package, his stablecoin legislation to strengthen digital asset regulation, and President Donald Trump’s strategy to end the war in Ukraine through tough secondary sanctions on Russia’s trading partners.

*Click the photo above or here to watch*

Partial Transcript

Hagerty on the rescissions package and fiscal responsibility: “It’s amazing what we found when we looked into it, and the amount of this rescissions package is just a start. I think your interview with the Speaker [of the House Mike Johnson] was absolutely wonderful in terms of laying out the fact that we’re on a progression to bring fiscal responsibility back to America. It’s going to take several steps, but this rescissions package that’s coming before us this week is an incredibly important first step. What we’re going to see is a cutback on programs that have been wildly mismanaged. If you think about the way these programs have been allowed to grow– I mean, we’re funding lesbian programs in Canada. That’s absolutely ridiculous that U.S. taxpayers should be on the hook for these types of boondoggles. This is a major first step. I’m looking forward to getting it passed this week and continuing down the path of fiscal responsibility.”

Hagerty on digital asset legislation and American innovation: “The most important thing to understand is the fact that the United States is turning the tide. The Biden administration did everything it could to wage war on the crypto industry in America, to shove that sort of innovation offshore. We’ve taken major steps with this legislation to bring it back, to create a regulatory framework that actually works here in America. I’m the author of the stablecoin legislation. I’ve had great assistance from our chairman Sen. Tim Scott, from Sen. Cynthia Lummis, and members of the Banking Committee. [Representative] French Hill and his team in the House have been absolutely wonderful to work with. And we’ve put together something on stablecoins that the president will be ready to sign at the end of this week. Stablecoins are a new payment system. It puts us into the digital asset arena, and it takes us off of a system that was designed in the 1970s and 80s– very clunky, sometimes taking five to 10 days to clear– and moves it onto the blockchain. It’s far more efficient, far more secure, and it sets the groundwork for the entire crypto industry to thrive here in America. That’s what the Clarity Act is about. That’s what the Anti-Central Bank Digital Currency Act is about. It’s moving this technology forward here in America and making certain we own this innovation going forward.”

Hagerty on reinforcing the U.S. dollar and countering surveillance: “It [The GENIUS Act] will make it easier to move dollars, which again reinforces the U.S. dollar as the reserve currency. Each of these digital dollars is going to be backed one-for-one by U.S. Treasury securities. That’s going to stimulate demand for U.S. Treasurys, and the increased demand will bring rates down, which will be very positive for our borrowing cost right now at a time when we need it. There are many reasons to love this bill– the working capital it brings back into the system, the immediate access for small and mid-sized businesses. But importantly, we’re going to see this technology thrive here in America. There is a large number of my colleagues here in the Senate, like Sen. Elizabeth Warren, the leader of this group, who are proponents of central bank digital currencies, meaning they’d like to be able to surveil every transaction Americans make. I don’t think Americans want that at all. They’ve seen Operation Choke Point take many different forms. We do not want to empower the federal government to do that yet again.”

Hagerty on President Trump’s Russia-Ukraine strategy: “I think it’s a very positive development. President Trump has gotten to the end of his rope dealing with Vladimir Putin and [Volodymyr] Zelensky, trying to resolve this conflict in Ukraine. And what he’s done is taken a major step forward, demonstrating his resolve, but he’s done it in a way that takes the American taxpayer off the hook. He’s putting the Europeans on the front line. He’s going to be depleting their stockpiles, not America’s, and they’re going to be paying for it. That moves us in the direction he’s been articulating for some time.”

Hagerty on the 50-day deadline for Russia: “He’s issued a 50-day timeline. Just ask the Iranians– when President Trump issues a timeline, he expects it to be followed. And if it’s not, the consequences can be serious when he talks about sanctions at this level. I worked on imposing secondary sanctions in the first Trump administration. My job was to work on the Iranian regime and to stop countries around the world from buying Iranian crude oil. I got that done in Japan. It happened around the world. We brought Iran to its knees. And had it not been for voices like John Kerry pleading with them to wait until after the election to see if Joe Biden might win, we’d have had a very different situation in the Middle East. We’re coming back to that strategy now. President Trump has more than three years ahead of him to impose these sanctions, and they’re going to be crippling. The Russians understand this, and most importantly, they know President Trump means business.”

Hagerty on restoring U.S. sanctions enforcement: “I can’t underscore this enough: Putin knows, and President Trump has demonstrated, that 50 days means 50 days. And if he violates that timeline, the consequences will be severe. Now, under [Treasury] Secretary Scott Bessent, we finally have the capacity to enforce our sanctions. Under Joe Biden, sanctions enforcement went away. That’s sad, because we had capable people at the U.S. Treasury who were responsible for doing this, and they were told to stand down. Now, Secretary Bessent is bringing in a team that understands exactly how to do this. We’re going to see real results.”

MIL OSI USA News –

July 17, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Senate Unanimously Passes Peters’ Bipartisan Bill to Advance U.S. Manufacturing Policy and Competitiveness
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters

WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. Senate unanimously passed bipartisan legislation authored by U.S. Senator Gary Peters(MI) to establish a National Manufacturing Advisory Council at the U.S. Department of Commerce. Peters’ National Manufacturing Advisory Council Act would establish the National Manufacturing Advisory Council as a key component in developing federal manufacturing policy to help strengthen U.S. leadership in global manufacturing.

“To support manufacturers in Michigan and throughout the United States, we need our industry partners, economic developers, lawmakers, and workers reading from the same playbook,” said Senator Peters. “A National Manufacturing Advisory Council would help bring together and amplify the voices of manufacturers, workers, and industry experts to strengthen our federal manufacturing policy. In doing so, we can proactively address rising challenges in the industry and better seize opportunities that will propel American manufacturing to new heights in the coming decades.”

Peters’ bipartisan legislation – which he introduced with U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) – would establish a National Manufacturing Advisory Council made up of manufacturing, labor, and education leaders to advise both Congress and the Secretary of Commerce on how best to ensure the United States remains the top destination globally for investment in manufacturing. It would serve as a bridge between the manufacturing sector and federal government to improve communication and collaboration, and better support the industry and its workforce.

The National Manufacturing Advisory Council would meet at least twice a year to advise the Secretary of Commerce on policies and programs that impact U.S. manufacturing. It would also propose solutions to challenges and problems facing manufacturers in the United States. The Advisory Council would be required to:
- IDENTIFY AND ASSESS the effects of technological developments, production capacity, skill availability, investment patterns, and emerging needs for United States manufacturing competitiveness.
- SOLICIT INPUT from the public and private sectors – including businesses and labor groups – as well as academia on emerging trends in manufacturing.
- PROVIDE RECOMMENDATIONS to the Secretary addressing global and domestic manufacturing trends threatening the U.S. manufacturing sector, including supply chain interruptions, logistical challenges, and technological changes. The Advisory Council would also advise the Secretary on ways to increase federal attention with respect to manufacturing – as well as matters relating to the U.S. manufacturing workforce such as the impact of new technology and worker training and education priorities.
- IDENTIFY REGULATORY ISSUES encountered by the domestic manufacturing sector and provide advice on how to mitigate issues through a favorable environment for manufacturers, workers, and consumers.
“This initiative, the National Manufacturing Advisory Council Act, is designed to improve the resources and support for our nation’s small and medium-size manufacturers, which are a truly vital driver of our economy. I applaud Senator Peters for his steadfast, unwavering commitment to American manufacturing,” said Ingrid Tighe, President of the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center, the Michigan representative of the Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) program, part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).

“We applaud Senator Gary Peters for introducing this bill to improve the federal government’s planning and coordination of efforts to strengthen domestic manufacturing,” said Scott Paul, President of the Alliance for American Manufacturing (AAM). “Recent supply chain disruptions have made clear that it is time for the United States to shore up its critical manufacturing capabilities, which will not only better prepare us for the next crisis but also create jobs and boost the economy. This increased coordination between the many programs designed to support our manufacturers and their workers is an important step towards rebuilding our industrial base. We are grateful to Senator Peters for his efforts to bolster American manufacturing.”

“The Association of Equipment Manufacturers applauds Senator Gary Peters and Senator Marsha Blackburn for their continued leadership on behalf of the manufacturing sector and for introducing legislation that will prioritize a national strategy focused on ensuring American manufacturing policy can rapidly respond to changes in the global marketplace,” said Kip Eideberg, American Equipment Manufacturers (AEM), Senior Vice President of Government and Industry Relations. “Our economic prosperity and national security depend on a strong manufacturing sector, and establishing a National Manufacturing Advisory Council will help unleash innovation and mobilize a comprehensive, coordinated, and competent national effort in support of the manufacturing sector and its workforce.”

“We commend Senator Gary Peters (D-MI) and Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) for introducing legislation to establish a National Manufacturing Advisory Council,” said Ana Meuwissen, Senior Vice President of Government Affairs for Motor and Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA), The Vehicle Suppliers Association. “This council will be a forum for manufacturers and other key stakeholders to provide input to the Department of Commerce (DOC) on important long-range issues such as workforce, supply chain, technology, and defense industrial base. The NMAC legislation would also foster better coordination of federal manufacturing policy in the DOC and across the federal government. When this legislation is enacted, it will be an asset to assist in retaining U.S. competitiveness in critical manufacturing sectors like motor vehicle parts.”

Peters’ National Manufacturing Advisory Council for the 21st Century Act is also supported by the American Small Manufacturers Coalition (ASMC).

Peters has consistently prioritized strengthening domestic manufacturing and supply chains. Peters helped author and pass into law the CHIPS and Science Act to boost U.S. manufacturing of semiconductor chips, strengthen critical domestic supply chains, and create good-paying American jobs. The CHIPS and Science Act additionally increased funding for the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) program, which has been a priority for Peters. In May, Peters’ bipartisan Securing Semiconductor Supply Chains Act passed the Senate, which builds upon the Chips and Science Act to strengthen federal efforts to attract investment in U.S. semiconductor manufacturers and supply chains.

Peters additionally supported and helped pass the Inflation Reduction Act, which will strengthen domestic manufacturing, onshore our supply chains, combat the climate crisis, and create millions of American jobs.

In May 2024, the Senate unanimously passed Peters’ bipartisan Strengthening Support for American Manufacturing Act to bolster federal efforts supporting U.S. manufacturing and American workers. Last year, the Senate also unanimously passed Peters’ bipartisan legislation to strengthen federal efforts to expand domestic manufacturing of semiconductor chips.
MIL OSI USA News –
July 17, 2025
MIL-OSI: Agricultural Scientific Begins Construction on Innovative Hydroponic Greenhouse to Transform U.S. Food Supply Chain
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

LAGRANGE, Ga., July 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Agricultural Scientific, LLC announces that construction is now underway on the Agriculture Technology Campus (ATC), an innovative agricultural project in South Carolina set to transform food production in the Eastern U.S.

Located at the 1,000-acre Agriculture Technology Campus, the high-tech hub will feature a hydroponic greenhouse and processing facility in Early Branch, SC. It will produce locally grown, organic tomatoes with 90% greater water efficiency than traditional farming, reducing dependence on imports from Mexico, California, and Canada.

Initially announced in September 2020 during the COVID pandemic, the highly anticipated project that garnered international interest, has been galvanized through a strategic partnership between Phoenix Lender Services, a subsidiary of Community Bankshares, Inc. and Optus Bank of South Carolina.

Backed by a complex capital stack of USDA Business & Industry and Food Supply Chain loans, the project will enable 400+ acres of hydroponic greenhouses to produce year-round vegetables, cutting water use and eliminating pesticides. Upon completion, this innovative project will bring $350 million in private capital investment and over 1000 direct jobs to rural Hampton County and the surrounding region.

“This isn’t just about growing vegetables—it’s about reshaping the future of agriculture and re-shoring our critical U.S. supply chain,” said Zeb Portanova, CEO of Agricultural Scientific. “By producing fresh, high-quality produce closer to consumers, we can reduce food miles, cut emissions, and limit our reliance on foreign countries. Thank you to the United States Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins for her integral support of this project.”

Currently, 90% of vegetables consumed in the Eastern U.S. are transported from other countries and regions, leading to supply chain vulnerabilities and excessive carbon emissions. This project will drastically shorten food miles, ensuring fresher produce while slashing CO₂ emissions by approximately 600 metric tons per 100 truckloads.

Key benefits of this initiative include:
- Enhance food security by reducing reliance on imported produce from Mexico and Canada
- Lower carbon emissions through sustainable, localized production
- Align with retailers’ goals by providing fresher, locally grown, organic, and environmentally responsible products
- Foster U.S.-based manufacturing growth and reinvestment in critical sectors that sustain communities and the economy
- Generate hundreds of skilled agricultural jobs in South Carolina
“This is a landmark moment for agriculture, rural America, and sustainability,” said Chris Hurn, President of Phoenix Lender Services and Community Bankshares, Inc. “By investing in local food production, we’re not only boosting U.S. agriculture but also bringing manufacturing back home, reducing reliance on foreign supply chains and creating lasting economic impact.”

“This facility represents the future of sustainable food production,” said Reggie Webber, Chief Credit Officer of Optus Bank. “It’s not just an investment in farming—it’s an investment in economic stability, job creation, and environmental responsibility.

“At Optus Bank, we are proud to bank on communities through innovation, impact, and economic empowerment. Our strategic partnership with Community Bankshares and their subsidiaries, Phoenix Lender Services, allows us to achieve a key strategic imperative for the Bank,” said Benita Lefft, President of Optus Bank.

A total USDA loan capital stack of $46,157,187 was successfully structured through the partnership. This included two food supply chain loans totaling $29,610,400 and a Business & Industry (B&I) loan of $16,546,787.

The ATC is developed and owned by Agricultural Scientific, LLC and leased to Lokal Harvest USA (LHUSA), a subsidiary of Harvest House, one of Europe’s largest and most successful greenhouse operators. With a track record of supplying major retailers like Walmart, Kroger, Sam’s Club, Trader Joe’s, and Publix, Lokal Harvest USA is well-positioned to scale operations and meet the rising demand for fresh, locally grown produce.

“The Agriculture Technology Campus has been the talk of Hampton County since it was first announced, and the commencement of construction could not have come at a better time. We in Hampton County understand that good economic development has a direct tie to a better quality of life for all of our citizens, and we are excited about this innovative agricultural project. We thank everyone involved in the ATC project for their support, and we look forward to working with the company for decades to come as new jobs and opportunities emerge in Hampton County,” said Dr. Roy Hollingsworth, Chairman of Hampton County Council.

“SouthernCarolina Alliance is delighted to see this critical project coming to fruition. We appreciate the support of our partners at USDA, the SC Dept. of Commerce, the SC Dept. of Agriculture, Phoenix Lender Services, Community Bankshares, and Optus Bank in facilitating this investment in our region. Good jobs and investment change communities, and this project will not only affect Hampton County locally, but also improve the quality of life in our region and beyond through both its economic impact and fresher, healthier produce for all,” said Danny Black, President and CEO, SouthernCarolina Alliance.

This landmark project is more than just a local initiative—it’s a scalable model for the future of agriculture in the U.S. With federal support, private investment, and the expertise of global leaders in hydroponic agriculture, this initiative is poised to set a new standard for modern farming—one that delivers fresher produce, reduces environmental impact, and supports economic growth.

Local, legislative and state leaders gathered at the construction site on July 16 to celebrate the partnership and view the construction underway.

For more information, please visit The Agriculture Technology Campus https://agtechcampus.com.

For more information about Phoenix Lender Services and its lending solutions, please visit www.phoenixlenderservices.com.

ABOUT AGRICULTURE TECHNOLOGY CAMPUS (ATC)

The Agriculture Technology Campus in Hampton County, SC, is a pioneering agricultural development designed to revolutionize food production through controlled-environment farming, sustainable growing practices, and strategic partnerships with global leaders in greenhouse technology. If you are interested in joining the ATC campus, please email info@gemozf.com. Backed by a complex capital stack of USDA Business & Industry and Food Supply Chain loans, the project will enable 400+ acres of hydroponic greenhouses to produce year-round vegetables, cutting water use and eliminating pesticides.

ABOUT PHOENIX LENDER SERVICES

Based in Georgia and serving clients nationwide, Phoenix Lender Services offers a comprehensive suite of commercial lending solutions, including loan underwriting, closing, and servicing; participant lender matching; secondary market sales; portfolio management; risk analysis; and compliance reviews and regulatory support. Our seasoned professionals combine extensive industry expertise in SBA, USDA, and other commercial government-guaranteed lending with industry-leading technologies to deliver tailored solutions that align with each client’s unique strategic goals. Phoenix Lender Services is leading the way in SBA and USDA commercial lending.

ABOUT COMMUNITY BANKSHARES INC

Community Bankshares, Inc. is a dynamic company that is revolutionizing the financial landscape via its support for America’s businesses. As a mission-focused company, we are redefining how lending capital is provided across the nation and its territories in ways that promote business stability and encourage local area prosperity. In doing so, we foster economic growth, job creation and retention, and community strength. https://communitybankshares.com/

ABOUT OPTUS BANK

Established in 1921, Optus Bank is a federally designated Minority Depository Institution (MDI) and certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) dedicated to serving underserved communities. Optus is committed to Banking on Communities Through Innovation, Impact, and Economic Empowerment—providing access to capital, financial education, and full-service banking for individuals, small businesses, and mission-aligned organizations. https://optus.bank/

ABOUT LOKAL HARVEST USA

Lokal Harvest USA is a leading producer of hydroponic greenhouse vegetables, bringing advanced farming techniques and global supply chain expertise to the U.S. market in partnership with Harvest House, one of Europe’s largest greenhouse operators.

https://agtechcampus.com/

MEDIA CONTACT

Abigail Davison
Uproar PR by Moburst for Community Bankshares, Inc.
abigail.davison@moburst.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e99b9c29-2298-468a-8d70-705020ace65d

The MIL Network –
July 17, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: In Burkina Faso, cashew cultivation is a lever for sustainable and inclusive rural development

Source: APO

Launched in 2017 and completed in 2024, the Cashew Development Support Project in the Comoé Basin for REDD+ (PADA/REDD+) exemplified sustainable development. The project combined poverty reduction, ecological transition and the empowerment of women and young people, achieving a remarkable implementation rate of 95 percent. It has revitalised the cashew nut industry, Burkina Faso’s third largest agricultural export after cotton and sesame.

The PADA/REDD+ project received support from the African Development Bank, which granted a loan of $4 million, and the African Development Fund, the Bank Group’s concessional funding window, with a grant of $1.39 million, representing 61 percent of the total project cost of $8.82 million. The government of Burkina Faso and the beneficiaries provided the remaining funding.

The project mobilised the necessary resources to contribute to the sustainable transformation of the Cascades, Hauts Bassins and South-West regions, with significant participation from women. It enabled producers to reduce maintenance costs, improve soil fertility and structure, and increase cashew productivity and incomes in a sustainable manner.

Climate action combined with agricultural production

The first component of the PADA/REDD+ focused on carbon sequestration. This resulted in the creation of seven tree parks, the production of more than 1.6 million improved seedlings and the development of approximately 27,000 hectares of agroforestry plantations. One-third of these plantations are maintained by women, underlining the project’s commitment to promoting social inclusion. A total of 35,340 producers, including 6,047 women, were trained in good agricultural and organic practices.

This capacity-building approach for producers and processors equipped each stakeholder with the skills required to meet their needs and expectations, particularly in mastering technical production and processing methods.

Adama Patrick Sombié, a cashew nut processor in Bérégadougou, confirms his satisfaction: “Before the project, there were no cashew tree parks in the village, only forest and a few orchards. When the project offered plots to promoters, I signed up and received two hectares.”

Access to finance and modernization of processing

The second component of the project focused on strengthening value chains. Long hampered by limited access to finance, the sector’s development has benefited from an innovative partnership with the umbrella organisation of Burkina Faso’s Caisses populaires banks, alongside savings and loan cooperatives.

This mechanism enabled investment loans to be granted based on a sliding scale of interest rates, financing 103 microprojects for a total of 888 million CFA francs, or approximately $500,000. The project also created 9,580 additional “green” jobs, 92.66 percent of which were for women, by financing micro-investment projects.

Thanks to the funding provided, seven processing units were modernised. A new unit called “Tensya” was established in the commune of Toussiana, and three warehouses were built, one of which is reserved for women. The project also enabled the purchase of 12 trucks and 45 tricycles, training in good practices for 631 people, strengthening the environmental skills of 477 stakeholders, and the construction and equipping of infrastructure such as a cooking and shelling centre for women in Diéri, entirely subsidised by the African Development Bank.

An inclusive and sustainable impact

These microprojects reached nearly 18,000 people, 61 percent of whom were women, further strengthening the inclusive approach of PADA/REDD+. “This project is a blessing for us. Thanks to the income generated, we can send our children to school and keep them healthy. Before, we used to sell our products at rock-bottom prices, but now, with our own processing units, we control the entire value chain,” says Aramatou Barro, a processor in Diéri.

Christiane Koné, a processor in Toussiana, confirms this postive impact: “Thanks to the project, we have been able to purchase six automatic shelling machines, which are twice as fast as our 25 manual shelling tables.”

At the same time, the project structured supply networks, ensured that 96 cooperatives complied with OHADA (Organization for the Harmonization of Business Law in Africa) standards and implemented an environmental management plan. Working conditions have improved significantly. Isso Kindo, a trader in Bobo-Dioulasso, says: “Transport was our main obstacle. Today, thanks to the truck financed by the project, I can transport up to 60 tonnes of nuts from the towns of Banfora and Mangodara.”

The impact of PADA/REDD+ can also be measured in terms of job creation for young people and rural entrepreneurs. In Orodara, Arzouma Zougouri, a producer and business owner, explains that “the project’s support has enabled me to better equip my processing unit. I’ve gone from 200 to 300 employees,” he says proudly.

By structuring the cashew nut sector sustainably, increasing productivity and strengthening local processing, PADA/REDD+ achieved its objectives whilst laying the foundations for more resilient rural development. Its contribution to carbon sequestration through agroforestry plantations strengthens its environmental impact. Perennial plantations, modernised agricultural practices, a strengthened local processing network and better access to finance were the pillars of this success.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Media files

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MIL OSI Africa –

July 17, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: Monitoring of enterprises: growth of business activity has slowed.

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: Central Bank of Russia –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

The Bank of Russia’s Business Climate Indicator (BCI) stood at 1.5 points in July, down from 3.0 points a month earlier. Current production and demand estimates, as well as short-term expectations, were below the June level. Business price expectations increased slightly after 6 months of decline. Companies’ investment activity grew more slowly than in Q2 2025.

Read more in the July issue of the information and analytical commentary “Monitoring of enterprises”.

Starting from this issue, the Bank of Russia will regularly publish data on the main indicators of enterprise monitoring by macroregions. In addition, survey data on types of economic activity and groups of enterprises in time series format are now available inData retrieval service (API).

Preview photo: Eric Romanenko / TASS

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 –

July 17, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: ICE Los Angeles special agents arrest Iranian national for violation of US sanctions

Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

LOS ANGELES — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested an Iranian national July 10 upon arriving at Los Angeles International Airport for U.S. export violations.

“The circumvention of export laws to provide Iran with U.S. origin sensitive technologies is a huge national security concern,” said Homeland Security Investigations Los Angeles Special Agent in Charge Eddy Wang. “This arrest has taken a dangerous member of an Iranian procurement network off the street.”

Bahram Mohammad Ostovari is alleged to have unlawfully exported U.S.-made electronic components used in railway signaling and telecommunications systems from the United States to an Iranian company by using his own companies in the United Arab Emirates as conduits.

Ostovari, a lawful permanent resident of the United States, was charged with violation of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, Iranian transactions and sanctions regulations, unlawful export information activities, outbound smuggling, conspiracy to commit the aforementioned offenses and money laundering.

From May 2018 to July 2025, Ostovari and his co-conspirators obtained and shipped to Iran sophisticated computer processors and railway signaling equipment. Many of these items were controlled under federal regulations and their export to Iran without a license is prohibited.

After Ostovari became a lawful permanent resident of the United States in May 2020, he continued to export, sell, and supply electronics and electrical components to a Tehran-based engineering company he owned, operated, and controlled. This firm — identified in the indictment as “Company A” — secured contracts to supply signaling and communications systems to Iran and its government, including on projects for the Islamic Republic of Iran Railways.

Ostovari, aware of U.S. sanctions against Iran, directed a co-conspirator to provide false information to a federal export control officer regarding the end use of the U.S.-origin goods they were shipping.

Furthermore, he directed co-conspirators at a UAE company to acquire the electronics and other components, including U.S. export-controlled items and other U.S.-origin items, for his company in Iran. Ostovari and his co-conspirators intentionally concealed from companies based in the U.S. and elsewhere the true identifies of the ultimate end users of the goods by providing false and misleading information about those end users.

An indictment contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.

If convicted, Ostovari would face a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison for each count.

This is a collaborative investigation between ICE HSI Los Angeles, the United States Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security and the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations.

Anyone with information on the illegal export of U.S. sensitive technologies is encouraged to call the ICE Tip Line at 1-866-347-2423.

Learn more about HSI’s mission to investigate violations of U.S. export laws at @HSILosAngeles.

MIL OSI USA News –

July 17, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Support for the Canadian Steel Sector
Source: Government of Canada News

This move comes in response to both U.S. tariffs on steel and global steel overproduction, which are pushing foreign exporters to find new places to sell their steel—including Canada. Strengthening these import limits will help prevent the Canadian market from being overwhelmed with cheap steel, while still making sure Canadian businesses that rely on steel can continue to get the supply they need.
Canada is among the countries most affected by global steel tariffs. It is one of the world’s largest per capita importers of steel. Canadian steel producers are highly trade exposed, exporting just over 50 per cent of their annual production in 2024, during which over 90 per cent went to the U.S. Our steel industry is a cornerstone of the national economy—critical to building infrastructure, supporting advanced manufacturing, and securing our future prosperity. Canada is proud of our highly skilled steelworkers and the strong, resilient industry they power. However, rising trade pressures and market disruptions demand a clear and proactive response. The government is taking decisive steps to protect, stabilize, and pivot our steel sector. Canada needs steel to build Canada strong – homes, bridges, transit, and the clean economy of tomorrow—and the government is committed to ensuring our industry is ready to meet that demand.

Tariff rate quotas

Tariff rate quotas (TRQs) allow a certain amount of steel to come in at a reduced tariff or tariff-free. After that limit is reached, higher tariffs apply. The government is strengthening the TRQs for steel products implemented on June 27, 2025.

This move comes in response to both U.S. tariffs on steel and global steel overproduction, which are pushing foreign exporters to find new places to sell their steel—including Canada. Strengthening these import limits will help prevent the Canadian market from being overwhelmed with cheap steel, while still making sure Canadian businesses that rely on steel can continue to get the supply they need.
- Effective August 1, 2025, the TRQs will be extended to countries that have a free trade agreement in force with Canada, with the exception of the United States and Mexico. This will result in a 50 per cent surtax being applied on steel imports above 100 per cent of 2024 levels.
- For those countries that do not have a free trade agreement with Canada, the quota for tariff-free imports will be reduced to 50 per cent of 2024 levels. A 50 per cent surtax will be applied on steel imports exceeding this threshold.
- The government will consult with industry to finalize adjustments to other design elements of the tariff rate quotas.
Melt and Pour Tariffs

A 25 per cent surtax will also be applied on imports from all countries other than the U.S. that contain steel melted and poured in China. This will increase transparency in the domestic supply chains and help prevent circumvention of Canada’s trade measures. The product scope of the surtax would align with the existing China Surtax Order on steel. This measure will be implemented before the end of July.

Strategic Innovation Fund

The government will provide up to $1 billion to the Strategic Innovation Fund to support the steel industry’s transition toward new lines of business and to strengthen domestic supply chains. This investment will help the sector pivot to emerging opportunities, modernize production capabilities, and better serve the Canadian market. By fostering innovation and adaptability, this funding will build a more resilient, competitive, and sustainable steel industry for the future. Funding will be provided to support the competitiveness of Canada’s steel companies by:
- Enhancing competitiveness of domestic steel companies to serve the domestic market;
- Supporting the production of steel products not currently produced in Canada;
- Supporting the production of steel products needed by strategic sectors such as defence; and,
- Anchoring the presence of steel companies that are, or would become, commercially viable in a sustained tariff environment.
Labour Market Development Agreements

The government is investing $70 million over three years for steel workers via Labour Market Development Agreements with provinces and territories.
- Supports will be developed in partnership with workers, employers and provinces and territories to retrain and upskill up to 10,000 steel workers.
- Funding will support access to targeted training, reskilling financial-related supports, and job retention programs to ensure workers can continue contributing to a resilient and competitive steel sector and in-demand jobs.
- These measures will benefit mid-career, long-tenured steel workers affected by U.S. tariffs and global market shifts.
Regional Tariff Response Initiative

In March 2025, the Government of Canada announced funding to Canada’s regional development agencies so they could better support businesses impacted by U.S. tariffs. Up to $150 million of the $450 million Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI) will be targeted to SME projects in the steel sector. The RTRI will be launched very shortly and more details will be available for potential applicants at that time.

Large Enterprise Tariff Loan Facility

In March 2025, the government announced the creation of Large Enterprise Tariff Loan (LETL), a new $10 billion financing facility to support Canadian companies affected by actual or potential tariffs and countermeasures.

The Large Enterprise Tariff Loan facility terms will be revised to enable the Canada Enterprise Emergency Funding Corporation to provide targeted support the steel industry. These changes include:
- Reducing the proposed initial interest rate from CORRA + 400 basis points to CORRA + 200 basis points
- Reducing the minimum annual revenue criterion from $300 million to $150 million,
- Reducing the minimum loan size criterion from $60 million to $30 million,
- Extending the loan maturity from 5 years to 7 years,
- Enabling the Canada Enterprise Emergency Funding Corporation to hold equity in companies,
- Requiring companies prioritize worker retention.
Procurement

Through changes to federal procurement processes, companies contracting with the government will be required, where possible, to source steel from Canadian companies. Companies will only be granted a Ministerial exemption if they attest in writing that no Canadian steel producer could or wants to produce the steel required. Alternatively, companies will be required to provide proof that the requirement would raise the cost to unstainable levels or delay critical equipment required by the Government for defence, national security or other key sectors.

Pivot to Grow

Launched in winter 2025, Pivot to Grow is a $500 million fund administered by the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) and seeks to help small and medium-sized enterprises transition to new markets and increase productivity.

The BDC will provide more flexible repayment terms through its Pivot to Grow fund, with the financing to provide liquidity support to eligible steel Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) facing liquidity concerns. Further details will be available from BDC shortly.
MIL OSI Canada News –
July 17, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: $2 Million State Grant Helps Charlotte Land the 2026 Major League Soccer All-Star Game

Source: US State of North Carolina

Headline: $2 Million State Grant Helps Charlotte Land the 2026 Major League Soccer All-Star Game

$2 Million State Grant Helps Charlotte Land the 2026 Major League Soccer All-Star Game
lsaito
Wed, 07/16/2025 – 12:31

Raleigh, NC

Today in partnership with Major League Soccer and the North Carolina Department of Commerce, Governor Stein announced that Charlotte will host the 2026 Major League Soccer All-Star Game. This announcement was made possible by a new fund authorized by the legislature and offered by the Department of Commerce – the Major Events, Games, and Attractions Fund. A grant of $2,028,950 will support the Charlotte Sports Foundation and other local partners as they host this major sporting event next year.

“I am proud that North Carolina has been chosen to host the 2026 Major League Soccer All-Star Game,” said Governor Josh Stein. “Our state’s new Major Events Fund puts us in a stronger position to compete for these highly visible, top-tier events that draw people and their resources to our state. Visitors to Charlotte will see that North Carolina is a great place to live, work, and play.”

“Bringing the MLS All Star Game to Charlotte will showcase the talent of one of the most dynamic and fast-growing sports leagues,” said Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley. “The selection process for major events like this are very competitive, and we appreciate the General Assembly providing another tool to help the state to win more of these national-level events and attractions.”

In addition to supporting Charlotte’s bid for the 2026 Major League Soccer All-Star Game, earlier in the year the Major Events, Games, and Attractions Fund provided a $2 million grant to the City of Winston-Salem in support of the NASCAR Clash race held February 2 at Bowman Gray Stadium. The fund also provided a $1.65 million grant to Richmond County in support of the NASCAR Xfinity, ARCA, and Truck series races held at the Rockingham Speedway in April.

The Commerce Department’s Major Events, Games, and Attractions Fund was created as part of a law passed in 2023 that established sports betting in the state (Session Law 2023-42/House Bill 347). Wager activities are subject to a state tax, with 30 percent of the annual revenues from these taxes earmarked to support the Major Events Fund. Local governments and locally authorized organizing committees apply for grants from the fund, which then reimburses qualified expenses incurred in both securing and executing a major event.

More information on the Major Events, Games, and Attractions Fund can be found here.

Jul 16, 2025

MIL OSI USA News –

July 17, 2025

Category: Commerce

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Tariff rate quotas

Melt and Pour Tariffs

Strategic Innovation Fund

Labour Market Development Agreements

Regional Tariff Response Initiative

Large Enterprise Tariff Loan Facility

Procurement

Pivot to Grow