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Category: Commerce

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Russell Fry (SC-07) Introduces Bill to Supercharge American Energy Infrastructure and Support Domestic Manufacturing

    Source:

    Congressman Russell Fry (SC-07) Introduces Bill to Supercharge American Energy Infrastructure and Support Domestic Manufacturing

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Russell Fry (SC-07) and Congresswoman Sharice Davids (KS-03) introduced the Credit Incentives for Resilient Critical Utility Infrastructure and Transformers (CIRCUIT) Act, legislation to retool the 45X tax credit to include distribution transformers in order to encourage domestic production.

    Distribution transformers are critical components needed to strengthen America’s electric grid and secure energy dominance, but they are currently in short supply. With increasing pressure on distribution transformer manufacturers due to rising energy demand and concerns about grid reliability, Congressman Fry introduced this bill to provide targeted support that will boost domestic production and ensure a more reliable power infrastructure.

    To facilitate increased production, this bill would expand the advanced manufacturing production credit (Section 45X) under the Internal Revenue Code to include distribution transformers, help address national shortages, ease supply chain bottlenecks, and reduce dependence on foreign suppliers.

    “There is no path to American energy independence without a reliable, resilient electric grid—and that starts with distribution transformers,” said Congressman Fry. “President Trump is right: we need more energy online—but that energy is no good if it can’t be distributed across our grid. The CIRCUIT Act ensures we support the manufacturers producing the components our grid needs to grow, while protecting American jobs and advancing President Trump’s pro-energy, pro-manufacturing agenda. This is a win for South Carolina, a win for American jobs, and a win for energy security nationwide.”

    “Supply chain disruptions are driving up costs and slowing down projects in Kansas and across the country—and one of the best ways to fix it is by making more right here at home,” said Congresswoman Davids. “By incentivizing domestic businesses to produce important technologies, this bipartisan bill will help bring down costs, reduce construction wait times, and improve electric grid reliability. I’m proud to work across the aisle with Representative Fry to strengthen our supply chains and lower housing costs for hardworking folks.”

    This legislation is supported by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA), the American Public Power Association, and the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.

    “NEMA welcomes the introduction of this critical legislation in the House,” said NEMA President and CEO Debra Phillips. “The bipartisan CIRCUIT Act will expand the list of entities included in the Advanced Manufacturing Tax Credit (45X) to include distribution transformers that are essential to building a reliable electrical grid. This will ease supply chain constraints and provide manufacturers with the certainty to scale onshoring and domestic production without fear of demand instability. We thank Reps. Russell Fry (R-SC) and Sharice Davids (D-KS) for their leadership to support our nation’s critical infrastructure and we encourage Congress to support new incentives for domestic transformer capacity such as through the CIRCUIT Act.”

    This is the companion bill to the Senate’s CIRCUIT Act, introduced by Senators Jerry Moran (R-KS) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV).

    Read the full text of the bill here.

    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 –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Russell Fry (SC-07) Introduces Bill to Supercharge American Energy Infrastructure and Support Domestic Manufacturing

    Source:

    Congressman Russell Fry (SC-07) Introduces Bill to Supercharge American Energy Infrastructure and Support Domestic Manufacturing

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Russell Fry (SC-07) and Congresswoman Sharice Davids (KS-03) introduced the Credit Incentives for Resilient Critical Utility Infrastructure and Transformers (CIRCUIT) Act, legislation to retool the 45X tax credit to include distribution transformers in order to encourage domestic production.

    Distribution transformers are critical components needed to strengthen America’s electric grid and secure energy dominance, but they are currently in short supply. With increasing pressure on distribution transformer manufacturers due to rising energy demand and concerns about grid reliability, Congressman Fry introduced this bill to provide targeted support that will boost domestic production and ensure a more reliable power infrastructure.

    To facilitate increased production, this bill would expand the advanced manufacturing production credit (Section 45X) under the Internal Revenue Code to include distribution transformers, help address national shortages, ease supply chain bottlenecks, and reduce dependence on foreign suppliers.

    “There is no path to American energy independence without a reliable, resilient electric grid—and that starts with distribution transformers,” said Congressman Fry. “President Trump is right: we need more energy online—but that energy is no good if it can’t be distributed across our grid. The CIRCUIT Act ensures we support the manufacturers producing the components our grid needs to grow, while protecting American jobs and advancing President Trump’s pro-energy, pro-manufacturing agenda. This is a win for South Carolina, a win for American jobs, and a win for energy security nationwide.”

    “Supply chain disruptions are driving up costs and slowing down projects in Kansas and across the country—and one of the best ways to fix it is by making more right here at home,” said Congresswoman Davids. “By incentivizing domestic businesses to produce important technologies, this bipartisan bill will help bring down costs, reduce construction wait times, and improve electric grid reliability. I’m proud to work across the aisle with Representative Fry to strengthen our supply chains and lower housing costs for hardworking folks.”

    This legislation is supported by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA), the American Public Power Association, and the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.

    “NEMA welcomes the introduction of this critical legislation in the House,” said NEMA President and CEO Debra Phillips. “The bipartisan CIRCUIT Act will expand the list of entities included in the Advanced Manufacturing Tax Credit (45X) to include distribution transformers that are essential to building a reliable electrical grid. This will ease supply chain constraints and provide manufacturers with the certainty to scale onshoring and domestic production without fear of demand instability. We thank Reps. Russell Fry (R-SC) and Sharice Davids (D-KS) for their leadership to support our nation’s critical infrastructure and we encourage Congress to support new incentives for domestic transformer capacity such as through the CIRCUIT Act.”

    This is the companion bill to the Senate’s CIRCUIT Act, introduced by Senators Jerry Moran (R-KS) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV).

    Read the full text of the bill here.

    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 –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: REPORT on the proposal for a Council decision on the adoption by Bulgaria of the euro on 1 January 2026 – A10-0113/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    DRAFT EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION

    on the proposal for a Council decision on the adoption by Bulgaria of the euro on 1 January 2026

    (COM(2025)0304 – C10‑0110/2025 – 2025/0158(NLE))

    (Consultation)

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to the Commission proposal to the Council (COM(2025)0304),

    – having regard to Article 140(2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, pursuant to which the Council consulted Parliament (C10‑0110/2025),

    –  having regard to the Commission Convergence Report 2025 and the European Central Bank Convergence Report of June 2025,

    – having regard to Rule 108 of its Rules of Procedure,

    – having regard to the report of the Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs (A10-0113/2025),

    1. Approves the Commission proposal;

    2. Calls on the Council to notify Parliament if it intends to depart from the text approved by Parliament;

    3. Asks the Council to consult Parliament again if it intends to substantially amend the text approved by Parliament;

    4. Instructs its President to forward Parliament’s position to the Council, the Commission, the European Central Bank, the Eurogroup and the governments of the Member States.

     

     

     

    EXPLANATORY STATEMENT

    Bulgaria joining the euro area sends a strong political and economic signal of confidence in the enduring viability and appeal of the European Union’s single currency. More than two decades after the euro’s introduction, Bulgaria’s readiness to adopt the euro on 1 January 2026 reaffirms the Union’s cohesion and the euro’s role as a global symbol of stability and unity. Bulgaria has achieved substantial progress towards full economic convergence, making it well-positioned to become the twenty-first member of the euro area.

    Bulgaria introduced its currency board framework on 1 July 1997, pegging the Bulgarian lev to the German mark and subsequently to the euro. Since its EU accession in 2007, Bulgaria has held the status of a “Member State with a derogation,” subject to regular convergence assessments by the European Commission and the European Central Bank.

    At the European Parliament level, the Euro Accession Countries Working Group was established by a decision of the ECON Coordinators on 18 November 2019. It remained active throughout the entire 9th legislative term, scrutinising Bulgaria’s readiness to join the euro area and holding four dedicated sessions with experts, as well as Bulgarian Deputy Prime Ministers and Ministers of Finance. 

    On 25 February 2025, Bulgaria submitted a request for a convergence assessment. The ECB and Commission reports of 4 June 2025 include an examination of the compatibility between Bulgaria’s national legislation, notably the statute of its national central bank, with Articles 130 and 131 of the Treaty and the Statute of the ESCB and of the ECB. The reports also examine whether a high degree of sustainable convergence has been achieved, by reference to the fulfilment of the convergence criteria, and take account of several other factors required under the final sub-paragraph of Article 140(1) of the Treaty.

    Based on its own convergence report and that of the ECB, the Commission proposed that Bulgaria adopt the euro as of 1 January 2026. In accordance with Article 140(2) TFEU, the Council shall decide, by qualified majority and on a proposal from the Commission, which Member States with a derogation meet the necessary conditions for adopting the euro, as defined in Article 140(1) TFEU. This decision is to be made following consultation with the European Parliament and on the basis of the Commission and ECB reports. The Parliament is thus consulted on the legislative proposal for a Council decision to allow Bulgaria to adopt the euro on 1 January 2026.

    On the Convergence Criteria under Article 140(1) of the TFEU, the Rapporteur observes:

    1. Compatibility of National Legislation with Articles 130 and 131 TFEU and the Statutes of the ECB

    Bulgaria’s national legislation, including the Law on the Bulgarian National Bank, is fully aligned with EU requirements. The law guarantees the independence of the national central bank and of the members of its decision-making bodies, the prohibition of monetary financing and privileged access, and ensures compliance with the objectives of the ESCB as formulated in Article 127 of the Treaty.

    2. Achievement of a High Degree of Price Stability

    Over the 12 months to April 2025, Bulgaria recorded an average inflation rate of 2.7%, below the reference value of 2.8%. An analysis of a broad set of indicators reveals no concerns regarding the sustainability of price stability. The reference value is calculated as the average inflation rate of the three best-performing EU Member States in terms of price stability, plus 1.5 percentage points. For the period from May 2024 to April 2025, the reference value of 2.8% is based on the inflation rates of Ireland (1.2%), Finland (1.3%), and Italy (1.4%). No Member States were considered statistical outliers in this calculation, as none showed inflation deviations significantly above the euro area average due to country-specific factors.

    3. Sustainability of the Government Financial Position

    Bulgaria is currently not subject to a Council Decision on the existence of an excessive deficit. Its general government budget deficit stood at 3.0% of GDP in 2024, i.e. at the level of the 3% reference value, and its general government gross debt-to-GDP ratio stood at 24.1%, i.e. well below the 60% reference value since 2007. 

    4. Compliance with the Normal Fluctuation Margins of the EMS’s Exchange Rate Mechanism (ERM II) for at least the past 2 years

    The Bulgarian lev participated in ERM II in the two-year reference period from 20 May 2023 to 19 May 2025. Over the reference period, the lev did not exhibit any deviation from the central rate. Bulgaria has fulfilled nearly all of its post-entry commitments under ERM II. Further efforts are needed related to anti-money laundering and counter terrorist financing (AML/CFT) measures.

    5. Durability of Convergence, as Reflected in Long-Term Interest Rate Levels

    In the twelve months ending April 2025, Bulgaria’s average long-term interest rate was 3.9%, well below the reference value of 5.1%. The reference value for April 2025 is calculated as the simple average of the average long-term interest rates in Ireland (2.8%), Finland (2.9%) and Italy (3.7%) plus 2 percentage points, yielding a reference value of 5.1%.

    6. Economic Integration and Convergence (Article 140(1), Second Subparagraph TFEU) 

    In accordance with Article 140 TFEU, the Commission’s assessment must also consider additional factors relevant to economic integration and convergence, as these provide insight into a Member State’s capacity to join the euro area without significant difficulties. These include developments in the balance of payments and product, labour, and financial market integration.

    In this context, Bulgaria’s external position has improved, with its combined current and capital account close to balance in 2024. The country is well integrated with the euro area through trade and investment, benefiting from increased banking and financial integration and access to the broader euro area market. Bulgaria continues to make progress but further actions are needed to address the rule of law, anti-corruption efforts, and regulatory quality. 

    While the financial sector is small and bank-dominated, it is well embedded in the euro area, supported by Bulgaria’s participation in the banking union since 2020. Market-based financing remains underdeveloped, but potential financial stability risks are being mitigated by the Bulgarian National Bank’s conservative macroprudential policy and the robustness of the banking system. The Commission’s 2025 Alert Mechanism Report found no need for an in-depth imbalance review, but emphasized the importance of closely monitoring developments in competitiveness, the housing market, and credit growth.

    Bulgaria’s Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP), supported by €5.7 billion in EU grants (2021–2026), targets structural reforms, competitiveness, and reducing regional disparities. A revised RRP was submitted in April 2025 to accelerate implementation, especially in decarbonisation, governance, and business environment. Cohesion policy funds (€10.7 billion for 2021–2027) further support competitiveness, the green transition, social inclusion, and education, with implementation progressing overall, despite some remaining challenges.

    7. Note regarding Consultation of the European Parliament

    In accordance with Rule 108 of the Rules of Procedure, when Parliament is consulted pursuant to Article 140(2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, the committee responsible shall submit a report to Parliament advocating approval or rejection of the proposed act on the basis of which Parliament shall deliberate. Parliament shall take a single vote on the proposed act, to which no amendments may be tabled, which shall apply also to the vote in committee. On 19 March 2025, ECON Coordinators agreed the file to be treated swiftly with plenary vote in July and to allocate the rapporteurship on this file as soon as possible.

    Based on the above, the Rapporteur recommends that the derogation be lifted and Bulgaria adopts the euro on 1 January 2026.

    ANNEX: ENTITIES OR PERSONS FROM WHOM THE RAPPORTEUR HAS RECEIVED INPUT

    Pursuant to Article 8 of Annex I to the Rules of Procedure, the rapporteur declares that she received input from the following entities or persons in the preparation of the draft report, prior to the adoption thereof in committee:

     

    Entity and/or person

    Commissioner for Economy and Productivity; Implementation and Simplification

    Minister of Finance of the Republic of Bulgaria

    Permanent Representation of the Republic of Bulgaria to the European Union

    Chair of the Committee on Budget and Finance in the National Assembly of the Republic of Bulgaria

    Association of Banks in Bulgaria

    Governor of the Bulgarian National Bank

    Prime Minister of the Republic of Bulgaria

    Bulgarian Commission for Consumer Protection

     

    The list above is drawn up under the exclusive responsibility of the rapporteur.

     

    Where natural persons are identified in the list by their name, by their function or by both, the rapporteur declares that she has submitted to the natural persons concerned the European Parliament’s Data Protection Notice No 484 (https://www.europarl.europa.eu/data-protect/index.do), which sets out the conditions applicable to the processing of their personal data and the rights linked to that processing.

     

     

     

     

    MINORITY POSITION

    MEP Rada Laykova

    Minority position under Rule 56(4) of the Rules of Procedure

    Proposal for a Council decision on the adoption by Bulgaria of the euro on 1 January 2026

    The supposed job of the EP is to scrutinize the Commission´s assessment on behalf of the people, as they will pay the price of the ignored Maastricht criteria – mathematical rules to ensure no Ponzi scheme happens to the Euro.

    However, what did it do?

    • Ignore incoherence between findings within the Commission report and its final assessment, which strongly suggests a political decision that ignores Maastricht criteria and math to the detriment of the people;

    • ignore the suspicious Bulgarian budget data sent to the Commission with absurd income projections and concealed expenses;

    • ignore the suppressed referendum in Bulgaria;

    • replace the scrutiny by a gleeful statement cheerleading Bulgaria´s boarding of the “Eurotanic”, ignoring the obvious state of the Euro, which shows several classic terminal signs of a flat currency. A short statement like “shared sorrow is half sorrow” would have been more honest.

    The lack of diligence might have serious and far-reaching consequences for the people in the Eurozone or Bulgaria as it recreates certain aspects of Greece´s accession into the Euro.

    Here, the EU´s “democracy in action” was “democracy in name only” and the people will pay the price, as evidenced in the past.

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: State of Utah Renews 5-Year Electronics Recycling Contract with Advanced Technology Recycling (ATR), Taking Advantage of Increased Discounts and Services

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SALT LAKE CITY, June 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Advanced Technology Recycling (ATR) is proud to announce it has been awarded a second consecutive 5-year statewide contract (MA 4483) to provide Electronics Recycling and Secure Data Destruction services for the State of Utah, including all departments, agencies, institutions, and political subdivisions.  

    This new contract, effective through May 2029, reinforces ATR’s position as the State’s premier choice for responsible, secure, and cost-effective management of end-of-life electronics and IT assets.

    “We’re honored to renew our partnership with the State of Utah and excited to expand our services to both local government and private sector clients throughout the region,” said Pete Swavely, National Business Development Manager at ATR. “Whether you’re a public agency or an enterprise looking to improve your IT asset management strategy, ATR offers proven performance, unbeatable value, and personalized lifecycle management solutions.”

    Contract Award Highlights

    • Top-ranked vendor: ATR once again earned the highest score on the State’s competitive scoring algorithm, maintaining its leading position from the 2019–2024 contract period.
    • Second consecutive win: This marks ATR’s second successful contract term, reinforcing a strong performance history with the State of Utah.
    • Cost-efficient provider: ATR outscored the other two qualifying vendors by a wide margin in the cost evaluation, demonstrating unmatched value and affordability.
    • Best-in-class service: Selection criteria also prioritized logistics, compliance, service capabilities, and regulatory performance—areas where ATR continues to excel.
    • Strategic West Coast expansion: Services will be supported by ATR’s upgraded Salt Lake City facility; part of a broader expansion aimed at strengthening logistics and asset management coverage across the Western U.S.

    Why Advanced Technology Recycling Was the Clear Winner

    The State of Utah’s Evaluation Committee—comprised of subject matter experts from the Department of Government Operations, Department of Agriculture, and Jordan School District—conducted a rigorous, multi-phase scoring process following the Utah Procurement Code (Part 7), with oversight from the Division of State Purchasing.

    Out of 1,000 possible points, ATR earned the highest total score across all evaluated categories, securing its place as the top-ranked and most cost-effective vendor.

    Final Total Scores (out of 1,000 points)

    Vendor Technical Score Cost Score Total
    Advanced Technology Recycling 597.50 262.71 860.21
    Vendor #2 570.00 104.58 674.58
    Vendor #3 577.50 59.02 636.52
           

    Key Takeaways

    • ATR led in both technical and cost categories.
    • ATR outscored the second-place vendor by nearly 200 points.
    • ATR’s pricing model received full cost points, showing exceptional value.
    • ATR met or exceeded top scores in data destruction, security, and surplus resale categories critical to State and agency compliance.

    What Makes ATR Different?

    At Advanced Technology Recycling (ATR), we recognize the complex challenges facing today’s IT industry, particularly in implementing sustainable Information Technology Asset Disposition (ITAD) strategies that reduce risk and drive measurable value. Our ability to support your organization’s triple bottom line —people, planet, and profit —is what truly sets us apart.

    ATR’s proprietary asset management database enables our team to create a fully customized Statement of Work (SOW) for each customer, with individual asset-level tracking from pickup through final disposition. This powerful system ensures end-to-end transparency and compliance for every project, regardless of scale.

    Through our secure web-based portal, customers gain 24/7 access to real-time reports, scheduling tools, audit trails, and downloadable compliance documentation. This centralized platform is currently managing millions of assets and is trusted by an expanding list of Fortune 100 and 500 companies across the United States.

    Designed for scalability, ATR’s technology and services adapt to meet the needs of both small enterprises and large, distributed organizations. Our nationwide infrastructure, advanced security standards, and commitment to innovation make us the ideal partner for companies seeking to transform their IT lifecycle management while meeting sustainability and regulatory goals.

    About Advanced Technology Recycling (ATR)

    Advanced Technology Recycling (ATR) is a nationally recognized, multi-certified IT Asset Disposition (ITAD) and electronics recycling provider, proudly serving Utah since 2016. We are fully ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations) registered and GSA Schedule approved, delivering secure and scalable solutions for data centers, enterprises, and government clients across the United States.

    With over 30 years of industry expertise since our founding in 1992, ATR has remained at the forefront of innovation in electronics lifecycle management. Our seasoned team of technology professionals leverages advanced tools and best practices to design tailored, cost-effective strategies that help clients optimize IT infrastructure, enhance data security, and meet or exceed sustainability objectives.

    As part of our continued national growth, ATR has opened a new, state-of-the-art facility located within the Salt Lake City retail district at:

    Advanced Technology Recycling
    1967 South 300 West, Salt Lake City, UT 84115

    This facility expands our operational footprint in the western U.S. It enhances our capacity to support government agencies, educational institutions, and commercial organizations with streamlined logistics, rapid response times, and full regulatory compliance.

    At ATR, we are committed to providing secure, transparent, and environmentally responsible electronics recycling and ITAD services—because protecting your data and the planet shouldn’t be a compromise.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Releases Statement After Google Endorses His Children and Teens’ Online Privacy Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) today announced that Google has endorsed the Children and Teens’ Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA 2.0). The legislation would update online data privacy rules for the 21st century and ensure children and teenagers are protected online. The U.S. Senate Commerce Committee is scheduled to take up COPPA 2.0 at its markup today. 
    “COPPA 2.0 is a common-sense tool to keep kids safe online—and Google agrees,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Today’s kids are growing up with phones and tablets. We need to make sure they can do it safely.”
    Cassidy was joined by U.S. Senator Edward Markey (D-MA) in introducing the legislation. 
    Specifically, COPPA 2.0 would:

    Ban targeted advertising to children and teens; 
    Create an “Eraser Button” by requiring companies to permit users to delete personal information collected from a child or teen; 
    Establish data minimization rules to prohibit the excessive collection of children and teens’ data; 
    Revise the current “actual knowledge” standard to close the loophole that allows platforms to ignore kids and teens on their site; and 
    Prohibit internet companies from collecting personal information from users who are 13 to 16 years old without their consent. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Harshbarger, Sherrill Reintroduce Bipartisan Legislation to Digitize Prescription Information, Improve Patient Safety

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Diana Harshbarger (R-TN), a practicing pharmacist before being elected to Congress, and U.S. Representative Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ) reintroduced the bipartisan Prescription Information Modernization Act. This legislation would allow the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to move forward with a proposed rule allowing drug manufacturers to transmit prescribing information electronically to doctors and pharmacists, as opposed to printed copy, as currently required.

    “Pharmacists and physicians deserve timely, accurate data when making decisions that impact patient health, not pages of printed material that often arrive late and are immediately discarded,” said Rep. Harshbarger. “This bipartisan bill is a practical update that empowers healthcare professionals with real-time digital access, cuts waste, and ensures patients are receiving the most up-to-date information. Thank you to my colleague, Representative Sherrill for working with me to bring prescribing information into the 21st century.”

    “I’m focused on improving our healthcare system to ensure healthcare providers are able to provide the best possible care to patients. Under outdated rules, providers are prohibited from receiving prescribing information for medications digitally. This legislation would finally modernize our system, allowing pharmacists to access real-time updates on prescription medications that will ensure they can dispense medicines to patients safely while reducing waste at the same time.” said Rep. Sherrill.

    Under the current policy, which has not been updated since 1962, prescribing information sent to providers that contain important information related to a specific drug must be printed, running an average of 45 pages per prescription. This information is not intended for patients but rather contains the drug’s chemical makeup and information that informs a healthcare professional on the drug’s interaction with other drugs. In 2014, the FDA proposed a rule that would allow the electronic distribution of prescribing information. Since then, Congress has used the appropriations process to prevent the agency from finalizing that rule, requiring the bulky paper labels to be printed and distributed, even though many are immediately discarded by healthcare professionals for being outdated.

    The Harshbarger-Sherrill legislation would give healthcare professionals the option to choose how they receive prescribing information. In most cases, healthcare professionals choose to receive the information digitally because the information is available in real-time. Printed information takes approximately 8-12 months from printing to shipment, and information is often outdated by the time it reaches the recipient.

    This legislation has drawn support from leading pharmacy and healthcare advocacy organizations, including the Alliance to Modernize Prescribing Information (AMPI) and the following groups: Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy (AMCP), Allergy & Asthma Network, American Pharmacists Association, AmGen, Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, Association for Accessible Medicines, Beyond Type 1, Biotechnology Innovation Organization, BioNJ, BioUtah, Boomer Esiason Foundation, Environmental Paper Network, Georgia Bio, Healthcare Distribution Alliance, HealthCare Institute of New Jersey, LUNGevity Foundation, Lupin, Maryland Tech Council, MassBio, McKesson, National Association of Chain Drug Stores, National Consumers League, National Grange, NewYorkBIO, North Carolina Biosciences Organization, Texas Healthcare and Biosciences Institute, and Zero Cancer.

    Additional sponsors of this legislation include Reps. David Valadao (R-CA), Don Davis (D-NC), Ken Calvert (R-CA), Scott Peters (D-CA), Julia Letlow (R-LA), Deborah Ross (D-NC), Brad Schneider (D-IL), Steve Womack (R-AR), and Paul Tonko (D-NY).

    You can read the full bill text HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Griffith Discusses SWVA Electric Grid Challenges, Votes to Strengthen Electric Grid and Advance Power Plant Reliability Act of 2025

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

    Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA), member of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, participated in a markup hearing to advance several energy-related measures. His bill to help keep baseload power plants online, H.R. 3632 the Power Plant Reliability Act of 2025, was favorably reported by the Committee. 

    Congressman Griffith’s remarks on his bill can be found here or below. 

    BACKGROUND

    The Power Plant Reliability Act of 2025 amends Section 207 of the Federal Power Act to allow a Regional Transmission Organization (RTO) or a state Public Utility Commission to petition the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to issue an order to keep a power plant open and allocate costs for fixing a reliability issue.

    Congressman Griffith has long held concerns about the early retirement of Virginia’s and regional electric power plants, including the impacts on electric bills in Southwest Virginia.

    Congressman Griffith’s recent e-newsletter on blackouts and brownouts can be found here.

    In the 119th Congress, Congressman Griffith is serving his first term as chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Environment.

    Following the Environmental Protection Agency’s June announcement proposing rollbacks of power plant rules, Congressman Griffith issued his support in a statement. 

    Congressman Griffith serves as Co-Chair of the Congressional Coal Caucus. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Government Technology recognizes 2024 Oregon Summer EBT for best practices

    Source: US State of Oregon

    he Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) was recognized in a national Government Technology Case Study for its excellence in the use of smart technology in rolling out the Summer EBT program. As a result, more than 362,000 children were able to get more food during summer 2024.

    About Summer EBT

    Thousands of children in Oregon rely on free or reduced-price school meals. But what happens in the summer months when these meals are gone? This is called the summer hunger gap. To address this gap, the federal government last year rolled out a new program to provide food to school-aged children during the summer months.

    Oregon was one of 35 states to pick up on the federal Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) program, which provided a total of $120 in nutrition benefits for each eligible child when school is out.

    Summer EBT qualification is based on income. For families to qualify, the household income needs to be under 185 percent of the federal poverty level.

    “The majority of the people we served are working. It could be part time or they’re just starting off – they are bringing in income but it’s just not enough. The Summer EBT helps supplement their food budget for their children,” Singer said.

    A tight timeline

    It was go-time for ODHS in early 2024. There was only 16 weeks to set up a new program, bring in community partners, identify and reach out to eligible families, create communication plans and products, and establish the innovative technology needed to accomplish this task. ODHS is the lead agency and administers this program in partnership with the Oregon Department of Education (ODE).

    “It was a very short amount of time to build an entire system. The challenge was to quickly build a system to deliver quality services not only for this year but next year also,” Nate Singer, ODHS Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) Director, said. OEP is responsible for determining eligibility for people applying for benefits and processing applications to deliver those benefits.

    Goal setting

    Initial estimates in 2024 projected that Oregon would provide Summer EBT to at least 294,000 children.

    “The one thing I wanted for the project was to exceed that expectation because that would mean we would be providing more services for families and we could increase our outreach for all the of the services ODHS offers,” said Christine Doody, Self-Sufficiency Programs Policy Business Manager and Program Manager for Summer EBT.

    The expectation was exceeded about 68,000, meaning more than 362,000 children were able to get food benefits last summer.

    Innovation in action

    To identify eligible children, OEP used data from ODHS and ODE. Most children who received the benefit were “automatically eligible” because they receive other benefits. These families didn’t need to apply, and the benefit was automatically added to their Oregon EBT card.

    Other families needed to apply. ODHS brought in contractors Amazon Web Services and Deloitte Consulting to help with the technology and planning to make applying easy.

    “We tried to make it simple as possible. People could apply with a paper application or online. The online application could be done on a mobile phone. If someone had questions about whether they needed to apply or needed help to apply, they could call the Summer EBT Call Center to talk to someone. The call wait time was below five minutes. People could hear right then, on the phone, they would get their benefits if they applied. It took minutes,” Singer said.

    The Oregon Summer EBT Call Center included an Interactive Voice Response system offering self-service options for supported languages: English, Spanish, Russian, Vietnamese, Somali, Mandarin, Cantonese, Arabic, Ukrainian, and Chuukese. For other languages, or for other assistance, the calls could be routed to help.

    “This gave families the ability to take control of their case. They could use voice activation to say, ‘I want text messages’ from us, or they could change their demographic information or ask for a new card. The family could do that on their own,” Doody said.

    This population of customers – families with children in school – are used to getting texts and email from their schools, so they were already familiar with getting information this way. In fact, 99 percent of families that needed to apply chose to use the online application rather than a paper application. Those that used the online caption reported a 96 percent satisfaction rating.

    Communications and community engagement

    There was also communications and community engagement support, as well as an effective feedback loop. A workgroup with community representatives, such as the Oregon Food Bank and Partners for a Hunger Free Oregon, was in place. The community partners advised on all communication products such as news releases, the application design and social media kits.

    “We worked together to get the information as far out to communities as we could. We were also able to get good data from the Call Center to let us know how we were doing. We had a strong feedback loop that we responded to quickly,” Christy Sinatra, ODHS Senior Communications Advisor, said.

    For example, people asked if children in charter, private schools, or home schools could be included in Summer EBT. The answer was, yes, if they are found to be eligible. It was also important to communicate to people that the Summer EBT benefits expired after 122 days – so it was important to use them before then.

    “We are trying to increase equity and access. There’s not just one approach. We pushed many communications and engagement levers – technology, in-person outreach, digital communications, community partnerships, media exposure. All those things working together to make the program successful and making sure every eligible kid gets this,” Sinatra said.

    “The Oregon Summer EBT program demonstrated the strength of cross-agency collaboration and intentional program design. Staff were equipped with thoughtful tools and invited to shape how the program would operate, ensuring that those on the ground had a voice in critical decisions. That partnership—from planning to implementation—meant that families and children not only received meaningful support but also felt seen, heard, and cared for. The feedback from the community speaks volumes about the impact of that collective effort,” Singer said.

    “The project was just overwhelmingly amazing. I just hope that people read this and apply for this summer,” Doody said.

    2025 Summer EBT began May 22

    The 2025 Summer EBT launched Thursday, May 22, 2025. Applications will be accepted through Wednesday, September 3, 2025.

    ODHS will be running the whole program this summer – setting a goal of serving 375,000 children.

    “We will be doing additional outreach, based on data and staff feedback, and providing new ways to engage with people such as going out to more schools and community events,” Doody said.

    The program is set to: expand tactics to better reach people and communities that data showed were underserved; help schools connect families to Summer EBT; and increase strategic partnerships that serve priority audiences.

    Resources:

    Learn more about Summer EBT including how to apply for this benefit for your children: https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/food/pages/sebt.aspx.

    Double Up Food Bucks Oregon: Visit https://doubleuporegon.org/ to learn how to double your SNAP and Summer EBT dollars at farmer’s markets, produce stands, community supported agriculture programs and grocery stores.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: ‘Upcycled’ food is on the rise – here’s what you need to know

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Simona Grasso, Assistant Professor & Ad Astra Fellow in Food Science and Nutrition, University College Dublin

    Wonky veg are ‘upcycled’ from the dustbin. Civil/Shutterstock

    Whether customers are pleased to hear it or not, firms are selling “upcycled” food to tackle food waste internationally.

    Food with ingredients that were saved from the waste heap via verifiable supply chains is said to be “upcycled”. The term originated in the US, though it’s also been adopted on this side of the Atlantic.

    This rather broad definition includes byproducts from the food industry, such as spent grains left over from beer manufacturing, or apple pulp that doesn’t make it into juice.

    If you’re not familiar with the idea, perhaps you have already bought upcycled produce in the form of wonky carrots and potatoes. This is food that does not meet the visual standards of most supermarkets but is nevertheless still tasty to eat. Elsewhere, food manufacturers are making products that include upcycled ingredients.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    Why upcycle food in the first place? The US Environmental Protection Agency rates it as just as effective as donating or redistributing food to restaurants and shelters for reducing the environmental impact of the food system. Wasted food, after all, can generate potent greenhouse gases such as methane if left to rot in landfills.

    So it’s good for the planet if ingredients that would not have gone to human consumption are transformed into new food-grade products. But just how good exactly?

    How much of a product contains upcycled ingredients will influence its sustainability credentials. If they are listed at the beginning of the ingredients on the packaging then that indicates a large percentage of inclusion. Far down at the bottom suggests a smaller percentage.

    How much of a food has to be upcycled to count?
    Dean Drobot/Shutterstock

    Of course, there is only so much of an upcycled ingredient that can be added to food before it affects the colour, taste or flavour of the final product. It is important to keep a balance.

    According to the US upcycled food certification standard, a product only needs to contain a minimum of 10% upcycled inputs by weight in order to be certified as upcycled. This may only make a slight difference to a single product’s overall sustainability.

    Compare it with organic food. Both in the US and in the EU, a product must contain a minimum of 95% of certified organic ingredients to be labelled organic. The EU loosely defines “organic” as food that “respects the environment and animal welfare”.

    This is very far from the 10% required by the certified standard for upcycling used in the US. Of course, it would be quite hard to make an upcycled product with at least 95% upcycled ingredients. Think about a biscuit. Most of the major ingredients – flour, butter, sugar – would need to be upcycled. On the other hand, would 10% be enough to encourage you to buy food certified as upcycled?

    Before you spend on spent grain …

    While I believe that attempts to include upcycled ingredients in food formulations should be encouraged, however big or small, it is important to have rules in place.

    In the EU, upcycled foods are not regulated and there are no certification standards, though some product packaging may claim it contains upcycled ingredients. Consumers might buy a product with a sprinkling of upcycled ingredients thinking that it is a more sustainable choice.

    For example, a loaf of bread recently sold in Tesco was reported to contain 2.5% spent grain by weight. In other cases, the level of inclusion appears to be quite substantial. Granola sold in Ireland claims 30% spent grain from brewers, but it is not clearly stated in the ingredient list.

    Put to good use: spent grains from beermaking.
    BearFotos/Shutterstock

    Often, consumers are asked to pay more for upcycled food, even though it contains ingredients that would have otherwise gone to waste. This is because the producers are often small start-ups with high production costs that they must recoup with high prices.

    If sustainability claims are at stake, and if consumers are asked to pay more for upcycled foods, it is important to prevent deceptive marketing that could present products as more sustainable than they actually are. One way to do so is by carrying out a life-cycle assessment, a measurement of a product’s environmental impact from its production to its disposal. The manufacturer could do this as a way of reassuring the consumer and backing up any claims with evidence.

    If we want upcycled foods to become more common, and so reduce waste, we have to make sure consumers aren’t being misled. If consumers trust, value and understand these products, they are more likely to succeed in the market.

    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 45,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

    Simona Grasso does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. ‘Upcycled’ food is on the rise – here’s what you need to know – https://theconversation.com/upcycled-food-is-on-the-rise-heres-what-you-need-to-know-253306

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: ‘Upcycled’ food is on the rise – here’s what you need to know

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Simona Grasso, Assistant Professor & Ad Astra Fellow in Food Science and Nutrition, University College Dublin

    Wonky veg are ‘upcycled’ from the dustbin. Civil/Shutterstock

    Whether customers are pleased to hear it or not, firms are selling “upcycled” food to tackle food waste internationally.

    Food with ingredients that were saved from the waste heap via verifiable supply chains is said to be “upcycled”. The term originated in the US, though it’s also been adopted on this side of the Atlantic.

    This rather broad definition includes byproducts from the food industry, such as spent grains left over from beer manufacturing, or apple pulp that doesn’t make it into juice.

    If you’re not familiar with the idea, perhaps you have already bought upcycled produce in the form of wonky carrots and potatoes. This is food that does not meet the visual standards of most supermarkets but is nevertheless still tasty to eat. Elsewhere, food manufacturers are making products that include upcycled ingredients.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    Why upcycle food in the first place? The US Environmental Protection Agency rates it as just as effective as donating or redistributing food to restaurants and shelters for reducing the environmental impact of the food system. Wasted food, after all, can generate potent greenhouse gases such as methane if left to rot in landfills.

    So it’s good for the planet if ingredients that would not have gone to human consumption are transformed into new food-grade products. But just how good exactly?

    How much of a product contains upcycled ingredients will influence its sustainability credentials. If they are listed at the beginning of the ingredients on the packaging then that indicates a large percentage of inclusion. Far down at the bottom suggests a smaller percentage.

    How much of a food has to be upcycled to count?
    Dean Drobot/Shutterstock

    Of course, there is only so much of an upcycled ingredient that can be added to food before it affects the colour, taste or flavour of the final product. It is important to keep a balance.

    According to the US upcycled food certification standard, a product only needs to contain a minimum of 10% upcycled inputs by weight in order to be certified as upcycled. This may only make a slight difference to a single product’s overall sustainability.

    Compare it with organic food. Both in the US and in the EU, a product must contain a minimum of 95% of certified organic ingredients to be labelled organic. The EU loosely defines “organic” as food that “respects the environment and animal welfare”.

    This is very far from the 10% required by the certified standard for upcycling used in the US. Of course, it would be quite hard to make an upcycled product with at least 95% upcycled ingredients. Think about a biscuit. Most of the major ingredients – flour, butter, sugar – would need to be upcycled. On the other hand, would 10% be enough to encourage you to buy food certified as upcycled?

    Before you spend on spent grain …

    While I believe that attempts to include upcycled ingredients in food formulations should be encouraged, however big or small, it is important to have rules in place.

    In the EU, upcycled foods are not regulated and there are no certification standards, though some product packaging may claim it contains upcycled ingredients. Consumers might buy a product with a sprinkling of upcycled ingredients thinking that it is a more sustainable choice.

    For example, a loaf of bread recently sold in Tesco was reported to contain 2.5% spent grain by weight. In other cases, the level of inclusion appears to be quite substantial. Granola sold in Ireland claims 30% spent grain from brewers, but it is not clearly stated in the ingredient list.

    Put to good use: spent grains from beermaking.
    BearFotos/Shutterstock

    Often, consumers are asked to pay more for upcycled food, even though it contains ingredients that would have otherwise gone to waste. This is because the producers are often small start-ups with high production costs that they must recoup with high prices.

    If sustainability claims are at stake, and if consumers are asked to pay more for upcycled foods, it is important to prevent deceptive marketing that could present products as more sustainable than they actually are. One way to do so is by carrying out a life-cycle assessment, a measurement of a product’s environmental impact from its production to its disposal. The manufacturer could do this as a way of reassuring the consumer and backing up any claims with evidence.

    If we want upcycled foods to become more common, and so reduce waste, we have to make sure consumers aren’t being misled. If consumers trust, value and understand these products, they are more likely to succeed in the market.

    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 45,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

    Simona Grasso does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. ‘Upcycled’ food is on the rise – here’s what you need to know – https://theconversation.com/upcycled-food-is-on-the-rise-heres-what-you-need-to-know-253306

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Klobuchar, Clyburn, And Over 40 Members of the House and Senate to the Trump Administration: Reverse Course and Fully Implement Broadband

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Minnesota Amy Klobuchar

    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Representative Jim Clyburn (D-SC) and over 40 of their colleagues called on Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick to fully implement the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) program as Congress intended to connect all Americans to high-quality, affordable internet. This letter comes as the Department of Commerce announced substantial changes to the implementation of the BEAD program. 

    “We write to express our opposition to the Department of Commerce’s recently announced BEAD Restructuring Policy Notice,” wrote the Lawmakers. “The Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program was established by Congress in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to provide high-quality, affordable, and sustainable broadband to connect the nearly 25 million Americans that continue to wait for high-speed internet access. We urge you to ensure that states receive the full funding and flexibility they retained prior to the issuance of the restructuring notice to fully meet these statutory objectives.” 

    “The broadband division of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law begins with this congressional finding: ‘Access to affordable, reliable, high-speed broadband is essential to full participation in modern life in the United States,’” the Lawmakers continued. “This fundamental reality is why the BEAD program was established to fulfill the subsequent finding that ‘the benefits of broadband should be broadly enjoyed by all.’”

    The letter was also signed by Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chris Coons (D-DE), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Angus King (I-ME), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Tina Smith (D-MN), and Raphael Warnock (D-GA) as well as Representatives Leger Fernández (D-NM-03), Bishop (D-GA-02), Bynum (D-OR-05), Carson (D-IN-07), Carter (D-LA-02), Cleaver (D-MO-05),  Davis (D-IL-07), DelBene (D-WA-01), Evans (D-PA-03),  Fields (D-LA-06), Figures (D-AL-02), Garcia (D-TX-29), Goodlander (D-NH-02), Hoyle (D-OR-04), Huffman (D-CA-02), Lofgren (D-CA-18), McGovern (D-MA-02), Menendez (D-NJ-08), Mrvan (D-IN-01), Neguse (D-CO-02), Pappas (D-NH-01), Scholten (D-MI-03), Sewell (D-AL-07), Soto (D-FL-09), Thompson (D-MS-02), Titus (D-NV-01), Tlaib (D-MI-12), Tokuda (D-HI-02), Williams (D-GA-05), and Wilson (D-FL-24).  

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

    Dear Secretary Lutnick: 

    We write to express our opposition to the Department of Commerce’s recently announced BEAD Restructuring Policy Notice. The Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program was established by Congress in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to provide high-quality, affordable, and sustainable broadband to connect the nearly 25 million Americans that continue to wait for high-speed internet access. We urge you to ensure that states receive the full funding and flexibility they retained prior to the issuance of the restructuring notice to fully meet these statutory objectives. 

    The broadband division of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law begins with this congressional finding: “Access to affordable, reliable, high-speed broadband is essential to full participation in modern life in the United States.” This fundamental reality is why the BEAD program was established to fulfill the subsequent finding that “the benefits of broadband should be broadly enjoyed by all.” To achieve this goal, the statute states that funding recipients must “ensure coverage of broadband service to all unserved locations” before using any funds for other purposes. The restructuring notice appears to violate this requirement by allowing applicants to exclude certain unserved locations. Such an allowance would defy bipartisan congressional intent, which was predicated on the understanding that public investment was needed to achieve universal service precisely because building the infrastructure to cover many rural areas was too costly to be profitable. 

    In addition to excluding unserved, predominantly rural locations, the restructuring notice would likely result in others receiving worse service. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law requires that “priority broadband projects” funded by the program be “designed to provide broadband service that meets speed, latency, reliability, consistency in quality of service, and related criteria as the Assistant Secretary shall determine; and [to] ensure that the network[s] built by the project[s] can easily scale speeds over time to meet the evolving connectivity needs of households and businesses, and support the deployment of 5G, successor wireless technologies, and other advanced services.” Of currently available technologies, fiber-optic networks are faster and more reliable and can scale speeds much more easily. We made the decision to invest larger sums now in broadband infrastructure that would be resilient and capable of meeting Americans’ growing digital demands for decades. 

    The restructuring notice also undermines the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s provisions designed to ensure that broadband service is affordable and put to good use. The new rules remove specific requirements that ensured that participating providers would provide a low-cost internet option for low-income customers as required by the statute. Additionally, while the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law specifically allows funds to be spent on “broadband adoption, including programs to provide affordable internet-capable devices,” the notice rescinds approval of previously approved “non-deployment activities” and puts all funding for these activities on hold. For example, this provision of the notice puts on hold a South Carolina plan to use BEAD program funds for virtual primary health—equipping low-income households in rural health deserts with access to the full suite of virtual health services at no cost to the patients. If the broadband infrastructure being built by BEAD program funds isn’t put to good use, much of the investment will have been wasted. 

    As reflected in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s congressional findings, high-quality internet access is a requirement to fully participate in the world, and the BEAD program is our once-in-a century opportunity to finish closing the digital divide. We fear this opportunity would be squandered by the restructuring notice and its changes to coverage, quality, and affordability. We therefore urge you to implement the BEAD program in accordance with the best reading of the statute so we can make high-quality internet accessible and affordable for all Americans.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Havasupai Tribe Private Nonprofits Affected by Flooding

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding eligible private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in the Havasupai Tribe of the July 25, 2025 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by flooding occurring Aug. 22-23, 2024.

    Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to PNPs providing non-critical services of a governmental nature who suffered financial losses directly related to the disaster. Examples of eligible non-critical PNPs include, but are not limited to, food kitchens, homeless shelters, museums, libraries, community centers, schools and colleges.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    “SBA loans help eligible small businesses and private nonprofits cover operating expenses after a disaster, which is crucial for their recovery,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “These loans not only help business owners get back on their feet but also play a key role in sustaining local economies in the aftermath of a disaster.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 3.25% and terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    The SBA encourages applicants to submit their loan applications promptly. Applications will be prioritized in the order they are received, and the SBA remains committed to processing them as efficiently as possible.

    Applicants may apply online and receive additional disaster assistance information at sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    Submit completed loan applications to the SBA no later than July 25.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to California Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by the Chinatown Apartment Complex Fire

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding small businesses  and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in California of the July 25, 2025 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by the Chinatown Apartment Complex Fire occurring Sept. 13, 2024.

    The disaster declaration covers the California counties of Kern, Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino and Ventura.

    Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs impacted by financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the small business did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    “SBA loans help eligible small businesses and private nonprofits cover operating expenses after a disaster, which is crucial for their recovery,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “These loans not only help business owners get back on their feet but also play a key role in sustaining local economies in the aftermath of a disaster.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    Submit completed loan applications to the SBA no later than July 25.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kamlager-Dove, Malliotakis Launch Recommerce Caucus to Power America’s Secondhand Economy

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager California (37th District)

    New Bipartisan Caucus to Champion the U.S. Small Businesses and Entrepreneurs Driving the Growing Recommerce Economy

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswomen Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D, CA-37) and Nicole Malliotakis (R, NY-11) announced the launch of the Recommerce Caucus, a bipartisan coalition dedicated to championing the growing recommerce economy—the buying and selling of pre-owned, refurbished, and secondhand goods.

    The caucus will prioritize empowering small sellers, expanding digital access, and strengthening sustainability through recommerce—a sector projected to reach $1.04 trillion globally by 2035.

    “As a lifelong thrifter and advocate for sustainable business practices, I’m proud to partner with Rep. Malliotakis to launch the bipartisan Recommerce Caucus,” said Rep. Kamlager-Dove. “Recommerce is more than a trend—it’s a growing economic engine that provides consumers with affordable, high-quality goods and gives entrepreneurs, small businesses, and resellers access to trusted, thriving marketplaces. Together, we’re committed to advancing policies that support the circular economy, reduce waste, and empower buyers and sellers nationwide.”

    “As more Americans turn to resold, refurbished, and repaired items, I’m joining my colleague, Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove, in launching the bipartisan Recommerce Caucus. We support the efforts of leading industry platforms to create trusted spaces for buying and selling in the growing secondhand economy,” said Rep. Malliotakis. “Supporting the growth of the recommerce market will help create new economic opportunities and benefit American small businesses and entrepreneurs.”

    “As the pioneer of online recommerce, we believe recommerce is about more than transactions—it’s about connection, sustainability, and unlocking economic opportunity. At eBay, we’re proud to support the formation of the new Recommerce Caucus and look forward to working with Congress to highlight how recommerce empowers small businesses, entrepreneurs, and enthusiasts in communities across the country,” said Jamie Iannone, President and CEO of eBay, Inc.

    “Poshmark is proud to support the Recommerce Caucus, an initiative that aligns perfectly with our mission of putting people at the heart of commerce, empowering everyone to thrive. As a member of the PASS Coalition, we understand the positive impact policy can have on the secondhand market, and we look forward to collaborating with the Caucus to champion policies that support innovation and growth of entrepreneurship across the country,” said Manish Chandra, founder and CEO of Poshmark.

    “Etsy believes in the power of conscious consumerism and empowering small businesses and micro-entrepreneurs. The Recommerce Caucus is a shining example of how, by embracing the circular economy, we can champion a more sustainable future and create meaningful economic opportunities for sellers nationwide,” said Chelsea Mozen, Senior Director of Impact and Sustainability at Etsy.

    “The Recommerce Caucus supports Depop’s mission to make fashion circular. For us, this is about extending the life of clothes, empowering a new generation of creative entrepreneurs and connecting a global community that’s reshaping fashion. By advocating for policies that grow resale culture, we’re not only making desirable secondhand fashion more accessible, we’re also unlocking economic opportunities for individuals and small businesses. Together we’re shaping a more sustainable future where everyone can discover and express their style through circular fashion,” said Peter Semple, Interim CEO at Depop.

    “American Circular Textiles applauds Representatives Kamlager-Dove and Malliotakis for launching the bipartisan ReCommerce Caucus. For too long, resale, repair, and reuse have been sidelined in policy conversations, despite their critical role in reducing waste, creating jobs, and giving everyday Americans the chance to participate in the circular economy. This caucus reflects a long-overdue recognition of the entrepreneurial power and environmental impact of recommerce. At a time when consumers are price-sensitive and seeking more affordable, sustainable options, recommerce offers critical access—not only to income, but to quality goods at lower costs. We look forward to working with the caucus to support national policies and build domestic infrastructure that supports reuse at scale—from digital marketplaces facilitating global trade to local repair and resale hubs—to ensure the United States leads in circular innovation,” said Rachel Kibbe, Founder and CEO, American Circular Textiles.

    “OfferUp is proud to support the launch of the Recommerce Caucus. As a mobile-first marketplace serving communities nationwide, we know how important it is to make resale simple, trusted, and accessible—especially at the local level. Every day, our millions of users show us how local recommerce helps them earn income, find affordable goods, and keep quality items in use. We look forward to working together to ensure more Americans can benefit from the powerful economic and environmental impact of this growing movement,” said Nathan Garnett, Chief Business Officer, OfferUp.

    “Mercari strives to be a planet-positive company that contributes to solving environmental issues through our mission to help circulate all forms of value to unleash the potential in all people. We are excited to be part of the launch of the Recommerce Caucus in the United States Congress, and applaud Rep. Malliotakis and Rep. Kamlager-Dove for their innovative leadership recognizing the paradigm shift happening in retail as consumers are not simply looking to make extra money and find bargains, but also becoming more conscious about the impact shopping habits can have on the planet. We’re glad to have such thoughtful champions and are eager to work together to continue to grow the circular economy,” said Shintaro Yamada, Mercari CEO.

    The Recommerce Caucus is committed to:

    • Empowering small sellers and entrepreneurs by advocating for policies that help individuals and small businesses earn income through resale, repair, and refurbishment on digital platforms.
    • Promoting a sustainable, circular economy by supporting initiatives that extend product life cycles, cut down on landfill waste, and encourage environmentally responsible commerce.
    • Ensuring access to digital marketplaces by reducing participation barriers and promoting digital access so all Americans can fully benefit from recommerce’s economic potential.

    The caucus is endorsed by a growing coalition of leading platforms and advocates, including eBay, Etsy, Mercari, OfferUp, Pinterest, Poshmark, Red Bubble, and the PASS Coalition.

    Background:

    Recommerce—the resale, repair, and refurbishment of goods—is transforming the way Americans participate in the economy. In 2024, 58% of consumers purchased secondhand apparel, with 56% of those transactions occurring online. Platforms like eBay, Etsy, and Poshmark are lowering barriers for entrepreneurs and small sellers, while helping reduce waste and extend the life of everyday products.

    As consumers increasingly prioritize affordability and sustainability, recommerce is becoming a cornerstone of the circular economy. The Recommerce Caucus aims to ensure federal policies keep pace with this growth — supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs, fostering innovation, expanding digital access, and promoting sustainable commerce.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: England’s free school meals rollout risks losing sight of which children need help most

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Michaela James, Research Officer at Medical School, Swansea University

    New Africa/Shutterstock

    The UK government has announced an expansion of free school meals in England. Starting from September 2026, all children in households receiving universal credit will qualify, removing the previous income cap of £7,400 per year.

    This change is expected to benefit more than 500,000 children and lift around 100,000 out of poverty, providing a broader safety net for families.

    While this is a positive development, there are unintended consequences, particularly for researchers like us and policymakers who rely on free school meal eligibility as a measure of child poverty.

    Under the new rules, eligibility will no longer distinguish between the most disadvantaged children, those in low-income households, or those who receive disability-related benefits. That makes it harder to identify which children are most vulnerable and to target support effectively.

    Free school meal eligibility has long been a reliable indicator of poverty for schools and researchers. Without it, it becomes difficult to evaluate the effects of policies aimed at helping the most disadvantaged children.

    Wales has already introduced universal free school meals for all primary school children since 2023. Our team is currently researching the effects of free school meals in Wales. We are expecting to publish these findings later this year.

    shutterstock.
    Monkey Business Images/Shutterstock

    The dilemma

    If there is no indicator of poverty, it is hard to evaluate which interventions or policies are working to help lift children out of it. This is particularly important when it comes to areas like nutrition.

    For example, concerns about food quality, choices and portion sizes matter far more when a child is experiencing food insecurity at home. Without this information, it is difficult to assess the likelihood that a child will have access to a nutritious meal outside of school, and if free school meals help to alleviate hunger and improve nutrition for the most vulnerable.

    The eligibility for free school meals was an indicator of a family living in poverty. This was available to people working in and studying education. It was possible to see how well interventions work to address educational needs, especially for those in low-income households.

    The eligibility for universal credit is not available in school data, so it cannot be used to inform how well educational interventions are working to reduce inequality.

    Without free school meal eligibility as a poverty marker, schools and researchers must rely on other sources. These are often less straightforward.



    Read more:
    More free school meals is a start – here’s what would really address child poverty

    Finding other sources of information about poverty means that people working in education and child health need to work with data experts. This needs teams of people, more time, expertise, approvals and governance agreements to access and combine data to do research on education and child health. This makes the prospect far more complicated.

    A local-area deprivation index can indicate if a child lives in a poorer neighbourhood but can’t confirm individual family poverty. Census data can be linked to educational records. But the census is only updated every ten years, which makes it less accurate for current needs.

    Asking parents directly about income or hardship is possible, but risks stigma and can be resource intensive.

    To improve health and education outcomes for children in poverty, free school meals remain vital. But as eligibility rules change, so must our data systems.

    A new way of identifying poverty, one that can be integrated into school records, is needed. Without it, policymakers and researchers risk losing sight of who truly needs help and whether current efforts are working.

    Michaela James receives funding from ADR Wales and UKRI.

    Amy Locke receives funding from a Swansea University Studentship.

    Sinead Brophy receives funding from UKRI, NIHR, European Union

    – ref. England’s free school meals rollout risks losing sight of which children need help most – https://theconversation.com/englands-free-school-meals-rollout-risks-losing-sight-of-which-children-need-help-most-258614

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Pushes for Federal Right to Repair for Farmers at Senate Judiciary Subcommittee Hearing 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), a member of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust, Competition Policy, and Consumer Rights, this week questioned witnesses about how a federal Right to Repair would boost competition and strengthen sustainability of rural agricultural economies in Vermont. 
    “One of the issues that keeps coming up in Vermont—I talk to farmers, and they want to repair their equipment, and they can’t. And if there’s anything a farmer can do, it’s fix things. It’s a way they save money and keep things going, and they can’t take the time it takes to have somebody else come in and fix it. And they’re not being allowed to do it. So, a number of us think there should be a Right to Repair—you buy the tractor, you should be able to repair it,” said Senator Welch. “If something goes wrong, why can’t you—when you are somebody who knows how to do things—fix it?” 
    In response to questioning, officials from the Federal Trade Commission and the Department of Justice agreed with Senator Welch on the need for a federal Right to Repair. 
    Mr. Mark Meador, Commissioner of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), testified: “I think it’s incredibly important. And as you alluded to, the FTC has enforcement efforts in this exact area. I think it’s critical that when a consumer buys a product they can use their own labor—or that of anyone capable—to repair and maintain that product.” 
    In response to a question about right to repair, Mr. Roger Alford, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General of the Antitrust Division at the Department of Justice, testified: “The answer to your question is yes—right to repair is a critical argument that is important in antitrust enforcement.” 
    Watch Senator Welch’s full remarks below: 

    Read more excerpts from Senator Welch’s remarks: 

    Senator Welch: “Can you just describe how a federal Right to Repair would promote a more sustainable and competitive agricultural economy?” 

    Ms. Doha Mekki, Senior Fellow, Berkley Center for Consumer Law & Economic Justice, testified: “When I was the Principal Deputy and then Acting Assistant Attorney General in the Antitrust Division, it was our mantra in the front office: ‘Don’t mess with the farmers.’ We took the view that when big, rapacious companies abused farmers, that they needed to be prepared to meet the Justice Department on the other side…So, I think this is a wonderful idea because we know what happens when companies pivot from being sort of an industrial monopolist to a sort of big data monopolist and then are charging expensive subscriptions and service fees in order for you to just interact with the product that you thought you bought.” 

    Senator Welch: “Thank you. That’s very helpful, and I like your advice: ‘Don’t mess with the farmers.’” 

    ••• 
    Senator Welch has led the fight to protect consumers from corporate rip-offs and combat mounting monopolies. In April, Senator Welch called out President Trump for firing Democratic members of the Federal Trade Commission and discussed the importance of a fully functioning FTC to safeguard consumers from corporate greed. 
    At a Senate Judiciary hearing in November, Senator Welch grilled Visa and Mastercard executives about their duopoly over the credit card market and the interchange fees—or swipe fees—charged to businesses in the United States and highlighted the importance of passing his bipartisan, bicameral Credit Card Competition Act (CCCA) to enhance choice and competition in the credit card market and help bring down costs for small businesses.  
    Last Congress, Senator Welch led a bipartisan letter to the Biden Administration raising concerns about FanDuel and DraftKings’ conduct and slammed online sports gambling companies for exploiting the addictive nature of gambling and undermining antitrust law. Senator Welch also introduced the Preventing Algorithmic Collusion Act and Preventing the Algorithmic Facilitation of Rental Housing Cartels Act, bills to prevent companies from using algorithms to set higher prices for consumers and crack down on companies that help landlords increase rents in already high-priced markets. 
    Learn more about Senator Welch’s work by visiting his website or by following him on social media. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Clyburn, Leger Fernández, Klobuchar, Luján Lead Effort to Press Commerce Secretary Lutnick to Reverse Harmful Broadband Policy

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative James E (Jim) Clyburn (6th District of South Carolina)

    Text of Letter (PDF)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman James E. Clyburn (SC-06), Congresswoman Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03), Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), and Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) led a group of congressional Democrats in writing a letter to U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick addressing the Trump Administration’s recently announced Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Restructuring Policy Notice. The BEAD program was established by Congress in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to provide high-quality, affordable, and sustainable broadband to connect the nearly 25 million Americans that continue to wait for high-speed internet access.

    In their letter to Secretary Lutnick, the lawmakers urge the Department of Commerce to ensure that states receive the full funding and flexibility they retained prior to the issuance of the restructuring notice to fully meet those statutory objectives. 

    “Access to affordable, reliable, high-speed broadband is essential to full participation in modern life in the United States” the Members wrote. “We therefore urge you to implement the BEAD program in accordance with the best reading of the statute so we can make high-quality internet accessible and affordable for all Americans.”

    The BEAD program, enacted into law in 2021 as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, provides $42 billion to provide high-quality internet access to millions of Americans who remain unserved, to ensure affordability, and to facilitate adoption. The bipartisan process that crafted the program was informed by the Accessible, Affordable Internet for All Act, comprehensive broadband legislation formulated by the House Democratic Rural Broadband Task Force in conjunction with the Energy and Commerce Committee and Senate Democrats.

    The letter was also signed by Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chris Coons (D-DE), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Angus King (I-ME), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Tina Smith (D-MN), and Raphael Warnock (D-GA) as well as Representatives Leger Fernández (D-NM-03), Bishop (D-GA-02), Bynum (D-OR-05), Carson (D-IN-07), Carter (D-LA-02), Cleaver (D-MO-05),  Davis (D-IL-07), DelBene (D-WA-01), Evans (D-PA-03),  Fields (D-LA-06), Figures (D-AL-02), Garcia (D-TX-29), Goodlander (D-NH-02), Hoyle (D-OR-04), Huffman (D-CA-02), Lofgren (D-CA-18), McGovern (D-MA-02), Menendez (D-NJ-08), Mrvan (D-IN-01), Neguse (D-CO-02), Pappas (D-NH-01), Scholten (D-MI-03), Sewell (D-AL-07), Soto (D-FL-09), Thompson (D-MS-02), Titus (D-NV-01), Tlaib (D-MI-12), Tokuda (D-HI-02), Williams (D-GA-05), and Wilson (D-FL-24).  

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

    Dear Secretary Lutnick: 

    We write to express our opposition to the Department of Commerce’s recently announced BEAD Restructuring Policy Notice. The Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program was established by Congress in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to provide high-quality, affordable, and sustainable broadband to connect the nearly 25 million Americans that continue to wait for high-speed internet access. We urge you to ensure that states receive the full funding and flexibility they retained prior to the issuance of the restructuring notice to fully meet these statutory objectives. 

    The broadband division of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law begins with this congressional finding: “Access to affordable, reliable, high-speed broadband is essential to full participation in modern life in the United States.” This fundamental reality is why the BEAD program was established to fulfill the subsequent finding that “the benefits of broadband should be broadly enjoyed by all.” To achieve this goal, the statute states that funding recipients must “ensure coverage of broadband service to all unserved locations” before using any funds for other purposes. The restructuring notice appears to violate this requirement by allowing applicants to exclude certain unserved locations. Such an allowance would defy bipartisan congressional intent, which was predicated on the understanding that public investment was needed to achieve universal service precisely because building the infrastructure to cover many rural areas was too costly to be profitable. 

    In addition to excluding unserved, predominantly rural locations, the restructuring notice would likely result in others receiving worse service. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law requires that “priority broadband projects” funded by the program be “designed to provide broadband service that meets speed, latency, reliability, consistency in quality of service, and related criteria as the Assistant Secretary shall determine; and [to] ensure that the network[s] built by the project[s] can easily scale speeds over time to meet the evolving connectivity needs of households and businesses, and support the deployment of 5G, successor wireless technologies, and other advanced services.” Of currently available technologies, fiber-optic networks are faster and more reliable and can scale speeds much more easily. We made the decision to invest larger sums now in broadband infrastructure that would be resilient and capable of meeting Americans’ growing digital demands for decades. 

    The restructuring notice also undermines the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s provisions designed to ensure that broadband service is affordable and put to good use. The new rules remove specific requirements that ensured that participating providers would provide a low-cost internet option for low-income customers as required by the statute. Additionally, while the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law specifically allows funds to be spent on “broadband adoption, including programs to provide affordable internet-capable devices,” the notice rescinds approval of previously approved “non-deployment activities” and puts all funding for these activities on hold. For example, this provision of the notice puts on hold a South Carolina plan to use BEAD program funds for virtual primary health—equipping low-income households in rural health deserts with access to the full suite of virtual health services at no cost to the patients. If the broadband infrastructure being built by BEAD program funds isn’t put to good use, much of the investment will have been wasted. 

    As reflected in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s congressional findings, high-quality internet access is a requirement to fully participate in the world, and the BEAD program is our once-in-a century opportunity to finish closing the digital divide. We fear this opportunity would be squandered by the restructuring notice and its changes to coverage, quality, and affordability. We therefore urge you to implement the BEAD program in accordance with the best reading of the statute so we can make high-quality internet accessible and affordable for all Americans.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: DfE Update: 25 June 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Correspondence

    DfE Update: 25 June 2025

    Latest information and actions from the Department for Education about funding, assurance and resource management, for academies, local authorities and further education providers.

    Applies to England

    Documents

    DfE Update further education: 25 June 2025

    HTML

    DfE Update academies: 25 June 2025

    HTML

    DfE Update local authorities: 25 June 2025

    HTML

    Details

    Latest for further education

    Article Title
    Information Publication of the College Financial Handbook 2025
    Information Qualification achievement rates (QAR) 2024 to 2025 guidance published
    Information Free Courses for Jobs construction expansion
    Information Individualised Learner Record returns
    Information 16 to 19 funding update
    Information Financial assurance: monitoring post-16 funding for 2025 to 2026 guidance
    Your feedback Tell us about your experience of our funding service

    Latest information for academies

    Article Title
    Information Publication of the College Financial Handbook 2025
    Information Publication of new guidance: Financial Support and Oversight for Academy Trusts
    Information Pupil premium allocations for 2025 to 2026 financial year – confirmed allocations
    Information Universal infant free school meals conditions of grant for 2025 to 2026
    Information Good practice guide: managing conflicts of interests, related party relationships and related party transactions
    Information Individualised Learner Record returns
    Information 16 to 19 funding update
    Your feedback Tell us about your experience of our funding service
    Your feedback Complete the 2025 Survey of School Business Professionals
    Events and webinars Complete the 2025 Survey of School Business Professionals
    Events and webinars Academies technical update 2025 to 2026
    Events and webinars Academies technical update 2025 to 2026
    Events and webinars Academies technical update 2025 to 2026
    Events and webinars Get help buying for schools
    Events and webinars Hiring supply teachers and agency workers for your school or trust
    Events and webinars RPA members only: Crime resilience workshop

    Latest information for local authorities

    Article Title
    Information Pupil premium allocations for 2025 to 2026 financial year – confirmed allocations
    Information Universal infant free school meals conditions of grant for 2025 to 2026
    Information Free Courses for Jobs construction expansion
    Information Individualised Learner Record returns
    Information 16 to 19 funding update
    Information Financial assurance: monitoring post-16 funding for 2025 to 2026 guidance
    Your feedback Tell us about your experience of our funding service
    Your feedback Complete the 2025 Survey of School Business Professionals
    Events and webinars Get help buying for schools
    Events and webinars Hiring supply teachers and agency workers for your school or trust
    Events and webinars RPA members only: Crime resilience workshop

    Updates to this page

    Published 25 June 2025

    Sign up for emails or print this page

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: House Passes Bipartisan Bill to Cement U.S. Leadership in Blockchain Innovation

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Kat Cammack (R-FL-03)

    Washington, D.C. – This week, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Deploying American Blockchains Act of 2025, bipartisan legislation that positions the United States as a global leader in blockchain and distributed ledger technologies (DLT). Sponsored by Representatives Kat Cammack (R-FL-03) and Darren Soto (D-FL-09), the bill directs the Department of Commerce to develop a comprehensive framework to safely and responsibly deploy blockchain technology nationwide– ensuring America remains at the forefront of innovation, cybersecurity, and economic competitiveness.

    “Blockchain is more than cryptocurrency; it’s a next-generation infrastructure that can transform how we secure our supply chains, protect sensitive data, and support rural innovation,” said Congresswoman Cammack. “The United States cannot afford to sit on the sidelines while China and other adversaries race to set the global rules of the road. I am proud to lead this legislation alongside Congressman Soto to ensure American innovation leads the way in blockchain development.”

    “Blockchain technology is transforming the way we do business, secure data, and power innovation across the globe. With the passage of the Deploying American Blockchains Act, we’re making sure the United States leads—not follows—on this critical frontier,” said Congressman Soto. “This bipartisan effort will strengthen our economy, enhance cybersecurity, and ensure that the development of blockchain technologies reflects American values of transparency, inclusion, and trust.”

    Background: 

    This legislation establishes a Blockchain Deployment Program to coordinate federal efforts, build public-private partnerships, and support responsible innovation across key sectors. It includes key provisions to designate a lead agency, enhance coordination between federal agencies, and incorporate input from industry leaders, academia, consumer advocates, and rural communities to guide the development of standards and best practices.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: House Passes Bipartisan Bill to Cement U.S. Leadership in Blockchain Innovation

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Kat Cammack (R-FL-03)

    Washington, D.C. – This week, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Deploying American Blockchains Act of 2025, bipartisan legislation that positions the United States as a global leader in blockchain and distributed ledger technologies (DLT). Sponsored by Representatives Kat Cammack (R-FL-03) and Darren Soto (D-FL-09), the bill directs the Department of Commerce to develop a comprehensive framework to safely and responsibly deploy blockchain technology nationwide– ensuring America remains at the forefront of innovation, cybersecurity, and economic competitiveness.

    “Blockchain is more than cryptocurrency; it’s a next-generation infrastructure that can transform how we secure our supply chains, protect sensitive data, and support rural innovation,” said Congresswoman Cammack. “The United States cannot afford to sit on the sidelines while China and other adversaries race to set the global rules of the road. I am proud to lead this legislation alongside Congressman Soto to ensure American innovation leads the way in blockchain development.”

    “Blockchain technology is transforming the way we do business, secure data, and power innovation across the globe. With the passage of the Deploying American Blockchains Act, we’re making sure the United States leads—not follows—on this critical frontier,” said Congressman Soto. “This bipartisan effort will strengthen our economy, enhance cybersecurity, and ensure that the development of blockchain technologies reflects American values of transparency, inclusion, and trust.”

    Background: 

    This legislation establishes a Blockchain Deployment Program to coordinate federal efforts, build public-private partnerships, and support responsible innovation across key sectors. It includes key provisions to designate a lead agency, enhance coordination between federal agencies, and incorporate input from industry leaders, academia, consumer advocates, and rural communities to guide the development of standards and best practices.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Havasupai Tribe Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Flooding

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in the Havasupai Tribe of the July 25, 2025 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by flooding occurring Aug. 22–23, 2024.

    The disaster declaration covers the Havasupai Tribe as well as the Arizona county of Coconino.

    Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs with financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    “SBA loans help eligible small businesses and private nonprofits cover operating expenses after a disaster, which is crucial for their recovery,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “These loans not only help business owners get back on their feet but also play a key role in sustaining local economies in the aftermath of a disaster.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    Submit completed loan applications to the SBA no later than July 25.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Coolizi Cooling Ace: Why Coolizi Emerges as a Leading Cooling Tech AC in 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Atlantic City, NJ, June 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As rising global temperatures redefine daily life, a new class of personal cooling solutions is stepping into the spotlight. One product at the forefront is Coolizi Cooling Ace—a compact, bladeless, wearable cooling device designed to provide rapid and targeted relief in high-heat environments. In 2025, Coolizi is not just keeping users cool—it’s transforming how individuals manage comfort, health, and productivity during warmer months.

    A Timely Innovation: Addressing Rising Temperatures with Wearable Cooling

    From heatwaves to humid indoor spaces, consumers are increasingly seeking smarter ways to stay cool without relying on bulky, energy-draining appliances. Coolizi Cooling Ace enters the market at a critical time, offering a portable, personal cooling solution powered by advanced airflow and thermoelectric compression technology.

    With growing awareness of heat-related fatigue and wellness impacts, Coolizi is being positioned as more than a gadget—it’s a daily-use health and comfort enhancer for modern living.

    Inside the Coolizi Cooling Ace: Compact Design, Big Impact

    In the ever-evolving landscape of personal wellness technology, Coolizi Cooling Ace emerges as a standout innovation—thanks to its thoughtfully engineered, compact design. Shaped to fit comfortably around the neck, the device delivers discreet, targeted cooling to critical temperature-sensitive zones, making it an ideal solution for hot commutes, outdoor tasks, and indoor settings lacking adequate ventilation. Its form factor is feather-light, eliminating the strain often associated with neck-mounted accessories, while the airflow outlets are strategically positioned to maximize cooling efficiency without obstructing movement or conversation.
    The impact of this compact design extends beyond comfort. The wearable nature of the Coolizi Cooling Ace allows for hands-free operation, eliminating the need for handheld fans or stationary coolers. It’s engineered with lifestyle adaptability in mind—equally effective whether one is walking, working, or winding down. With a sleek, minimal aesthetic and a universally adjustable fit, it seamlessly integrates into any routine, regardless of age or occupation. In a market flooded with bulky gadgets, Coolizi’s ability to deliver precise thermal relief in a streamlined form marks it as a category-defining product. For users looking to stay cool without compromise, Coolizi is rapidly becoming the go-to wearable cooling solution of 2025.
    Visit Official Website To get More Information

    Engineering Breakthrough: How German Turbo Compression Powers Coolizi

    At the core of the Coolizi Cooling Ace is a technological advancement that separates it from standard personal cooling devices: German-engineered Turbo Compression technology. Unlike traditional fans that simply recycle warm air, this innovation actively cools the air drawn in before distributing it to the body. Through an advanced thermoelectric process, ambient air is compressed and rapidly cooled using a proprietary system, then released through bladeless, skin-safe outlets positioned along the collar frame.
    This breakthrough not only delivers a faster cooling response—it ensures sustained temperature reduction over long usage periods. The science behind Turbo Compression eliminates reliance on water tanks, ice packs, or refrigerants, making Coolizi a low-maintenance, eco-conscious cooling tool that still achieves superior results. Early users report a noticeable drop in perceived body temperature within just 30 seconds of activation, particularly in high-heat environments where traditional fans fall short.
    Furthermore, the system is whisper-quiet, registering at just ~20 decibels, ensuring that relief comes without disruptive noise. Whether used during sleep, study, or work, this engineering leap provides comfort without compromise. In the age of wearable wellness devices, Coolizi stands at the forefront, turning climate resilience into an effortless, daily reality.

    Three Cooling Modes, One Goal—Immediate Personal Relief

    As per official website, Users can toggle between the three preset modes to match their environment:

    • Cool: For mild relief during spring or indoor use.
    • Chill: For moderate summer days or post-workout cool-down.
    • Freeze: For extreme heat, including outdoor work or heatwaves.

    All modes operate at just ~20dB, making the device suitable for use during calls, sleep, or focused tasks—an uncommon feature among portable cooling units.

    Whisper-Quiet Operation: Designed for Work, Rest, and Recovery

    Noise-sensitive users—such as remote workers, students, and light sleepers—are responding positively to Coolizi’s low-decibel performance. Testimonials highlight the device’s ability to operate silently while providing real airflow and temperature reduction.

    This makes Coolizi a viable option not only for recreational use but also in workplace, wellness, and therapeutic settings where quiet environments are essential.

    Built for the Modern User: Portable, Rechargeable, and Maintenance-Free

    According to official website coolizi.com, Today’s consumers demand solutions that are not only effective but also effortlessly integrated into daily life. The Coolizi Cooling Ace is a prime example of how design and function converge to meet that need. Built for the fast-paced, tech-enabled lifestyles of 2025, this cooling device is entirely cordless, USB-C rechargeable, and free from the frequent upkeep typical of traditional air units. With a full charge, users can expect up to 8 hours of continuous cooling, making it perfect for workdays, travel, or extended outdoor use.
    The device’s portability is one of its most valued features. Whether tossed in a bag or worn in transit, Coolizi requires no installation, refilling, or cleaning, making it ideal for those who seek simplicity and efficiency. Its streamlined charging method—compatible with standard USB-C ports—means it pairs seamlessly with existing tech setups, from laptops to car adapters.
    Perhaps most notably, Coolizi is designed with durability and zero-maintenance operation in mind. Without fans, filters, or fragile blades, there’s little risk of mechanical failure. For users who want climate relief without additional chores, Coolizi provides a modern solution that respects time, energy, and convenience—hallmarks of next-generation wellness design.

    Cooling Where It Matters: From Commutes to Campsites

    From city commuters and construction crews to beachgoers and hikers, Coolizi’s versatile design supports a wide range of use cases. Its impact is especially notable in regions where temperatures often soar above 90°F and traditional AC units offer limited relief.

    The device is also gaining traction among travelers, RV users, and senior citizens looking for personal cooling without environmental noise or installation hassle.

    Healthcare Meets Climate Tech: Supporting Well-Being in High Heat

    As awareness grows around heat-induced fatigue, dehydration, and focus disruption, Coolizi is being integrated into daily health routines. Many users adopt it as a preventative tool against heat stress, particularly those with underlying health conditions, or those living in regions with poor air circulation or high humidity.

    This intersection of climate-responsive design and personal wellness support is part of what drives Coolizi’s AC growing reputation.

    What Users Are Saying: Real Experiences with Coolizi Cooling Ace

    With over 7,800 verified users and an average rating of 5.0/5.0, the Coolizi Cooling Ace is resonating strongly with consumers. Verified purchasers report “instant cooling,” “ultra-quiet airflow,” and describe it as “a lifesaver for daily commutes.”

    One user writes:

    “I was skeptical at first, but Coolizi worked straight out of the box. It’s now a daily must-have on my walk to work.”

    Visit Official Website To get More Information

    Why Coolizi Is Gaining Ground in the U.S. Markets

    As climate conditions intensify and the demand for smarter cooling solutions rises, Coolizi Cooling Ace is capturing attention not only across the United States but also in several international markets. In 2025, this wearable cooling innovation has swiftly transitioned from niche product to mainstream necessity—particularly among urban dwellers, outdoor professionals, and wellness-conscious consumers. What sets Coolizi apart in the global market is its ability to merge technology, comfort, and accessibility into a single, portable solution. In the U.S., rising temperatures have spurred a wave of interest in personal climate tech, with users seeking alternatives to energy-intensive air conditioners. Coolizi’s energy-efficient performance, paired with its maintenance-free design and silent operation, has made it a strong contender for both individual and workplace use. 
    Internationally, markets such as Australia, Canada, and parts of Europe have echoed similar praise. The device’s universal USB-C charging, lightweight build, and multi-mode functionality allow it to easily adapt to diverse climates and lifestyles. With no complicated setup or regional power limitations, Coolizi’s plug-and-go usability makes it ideal for global distribution. As momentum builds through positive user reviews and repeat purchases, Coolizi Cooling Ace is rapidly evolving into a household name in wearable comfort technology.

    Expert Insights: What Makes Coolizi Different from Traditional Mini Coolers

    Industry experts agree: while many portable coolers promise comfort, Coolizi Cooling Ace delivers it with a combination of scientific precision, portability, and long-term usability. Unlike mini air conditioners or desktop fans that rely on water tanks, external plugs, or refrigerants, Coolizi uses solid-state thermoelectric cooling paired with Turbo Compression technology. This not only reduces operating noise and maintenance—it increases real-time performance where it matters most: directly on the body.
    Another defining advantage is Coolizi’s bladeless safety design, which ensures quiet operation and makes it suitable for all age groups—including children and seniors. Experts note that many users overlook the risk of injury or discomfort with fan-based systems. Coolizi avoids this altogether while achieving cooler output in a fraction of the time.
    Its ergonomic neckband style is also seen as a functional evolution of traditional cooling formats. Experts emphasize that wearable tech should be intuitive and lifestyle-friendly, and Coolizi checks both boxes. It doesn’t just sit on a desk or require setup—it moves with the user, offering true mobility and freedom.
    As consumer expectations evolve, Coolizi has been identified by product analysts as a category leader, bridging the gap between comfort tech and wearable wellness—a distinction few brands can claim.

    Buyer Awareness: Official Site Access and Stock Availability

    To ensure product authenticity and avoid imitation units, Coolizi is currently only sold through its official website. The manufacturer does not authorize sales on third-party platforms or local retail stores.

    Users can order directly with secure checkout, email confirmation, and tracking support—providing peace of mind from order to delivery.

    A Look Ahead: How Coolizi Is Shaping the Future of Personal Cooling

    In a world where comfort technology is becoming increasingly personal and mobile, Coolizi Cooling Ace stands out for its smart engineering, ease of use, and measurable benefits. As 2025 unfolds, this compact cooling solution is expected to remain a leading force in wearable tech and thermal wellness.

    For more information, visit the official Coolizi Cooling Ace website and explore limited-time summer offers while supplies last.

    Company: Coolizi Cooling ACE
    SB Brands 78 John Miller Way Kearny,
    New Jersey 07032
    Email: Support@chillreleaf.com
    Website: https://www.coolizi.com

    Disclaimers and Disclosures 

    The information presented in this article is strictly for general informational and educational purposes. It does not, in any way, constitute professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment of any medical or health condition. Please note that Coolizi Cooling ACE is not a medical device and is not intended to prevent, treat, or cure any health condition. Any references to comfort or relief are purely anecdotal and should not be interpreted as medical claims. 

    It is strongly recommended that readers consult a licensed medical professional or HVAC specialist before considering any cooling product for medical or health-related use. Please be aware that individual results may vary depending on environmental conditions, usage patterns, and personal sensitivity to temperature or humidity changes. Product specifications, features, and pricing referenced in this content are accurate at the time of publication to the best of the author’s knowledge. However, they are subject to change at the discretion of the manufacturer or vendor without prior notice. 

    Consumers should always refer to the official Coolizi Cooling ACE website for the most current information regarding pricing, warranties, and product availability. It’s important to note that this article may include affiliate links. However, these relationships do not influence the editorial content, which remains independent and impartial. The publisher may earn a commission if a purchase is made through these links, but this comes at no additional cost to the consumer. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and up-to-date nature of the information presented here, it’s important to note that neither the author nor any distribution partners assume responsibility for typographical errors, omissions, or outdated product details that may appear in the article. The publisher and its syndication partners expressly disclaim any liability for actions taken by readers based on the content provided herein. Lastly, it’s important to reiterate that all product names, trademarks, and registered trademarks used in this article are the property of their respective owners. Their use here does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by these entities. Please remember, the information provided here is not medical advice, and it’s crucial to consult a professional before making any health-related decisions.

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Easy Tribal Loans for Bad Credit with Guaranteed Approval By Loans At Last

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York City, NY, June 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    Loans at Last, a trusted name in alternative online lending, has officially unveiled its Tribal Loans for Bad Credit Guaranteed Approval service — a specialized loan product aimed at supporting Americans with limited or poor credit histories. With a focus on easy approval, fast funding, and no teletrack checks, this new offering empowers financially vulnerable individuals to access emergency cash when traditional options fall short.

    >>See If You Qualify for a Tribal Payday Loans – Apply Today >>

    “When life hits hard, credit scores shouldn’t stand in the way,” said Alicia Moreno, Head of Consumer Lending at Loans at Last. “Our tribal loans direct lender guaranteed approval option allows people to get the help they need without being judged by their past.”

    Why Tribal Loans for Bad Credit Are Changing the Game

    In today’s economic climate, millions of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck. For those with bad credit, getting approved for emergency funding can be a challenge. Loans at Last bridges this gap by working with licensed tribal direct lenders who can legally offer tribal payday loans and installment loans outside conventional lending restrictions.

    Unlock $255 Emergency Cash with No Credit Check – Start Here >>

    With no credit check tribal loans and guaranteed approval, the process is simple, fast, and designed for urgent needs such as medical bills, car repairs, or rent.

    Key Features of Loans at Last Tribal Loans for Bad Credit

    • ✅ Guaranteed Approval: Qualifying is based on income—not credit score—ensuring access for borrowers with bad or no credit.
    • ✅ No Teletrack, No Hard Pulls: Choose tribal loans direct lender guaranteed approval no teletrack for a smooth application without impacting your credit.
    • ✅ Easy Online Application: Apply in under 5 minutes with minimal paperwork through a mobile-optimized platform.
    • ✅ Same-Day Processing: Many borrowers receive funds in their accounts within 24 hours of approval.
    • ✅ Flexible Repayment Terms: Select between tribal payday loans and tribal installment loans for bad credit direct lenders, based on your cash flow.

    Empowering Borrowers Through Tribal Lending Partnerships

    Unlike traditional banks, tribal lenders operate under sovereign tribal law, which allows them to offer more flexible lending practices. Loans at Last partners only with trusted tribal loans no credit check direct lender networks, ensuring every borrower experiences transparency, privacy, and fairness.

    With options like the easiest tribal loans to get and easy tribal loans for bad credit, Loans at Last gives hope to people who’ve been turned away elsewhere.

    Tribal Loans for Bad Credit: Who Qualifies?

    These loans are especially beneficial for:

    • Individuals with a credit score below 600
    • Those with no traditional credit history
    • Borrowers seeking tribal installment loans for bad credit direct lenders
    • People needing emergency loans without hard checks or in-person visits

    “We designed this with real people in mind—those who’ve faced hardship, not because of poor choices, but because of life’s unpredictability,” added Moreno. “Everyone deserves a second chance.”

    Transparent, Responsible Lending Built on Trust

    Loans at Last believes in financial clarity. Before borrowers accept any offer, they receive:

    • A clear breakdown of loan terms, repayment schedules, and total costs
    • Access to budgeting tools and repayment calculators
    • Support from a U.S.-based customer service team that respects your time and privacy

    Security is paramount: all applicant data is encrypted using bank-level protections, ensuring safe transactions from start to finish.

    Beyond $255: Guaranteed Tribal Loans Up to $1,500

    While many tribal loan providers offer short-term amounts, Loans at Last expands its guaranteed tribal loans bad credit portfolio to include advances up to $1,500 for those who qualify. These tribal installment loans feature longer terms and lower monthly payments, offering more manageable financial solutions without the trap of constant rollovers.

    About Loans at Last

    Loans at Last is a U.S.-based online lending facilitator committed to helping underserved Americans access short-term tribal and non-tribal lending solutions with speed, fairness, and security. By partnering with tribal loans no credit check direct lenders, the platform empowers borrowers with bad credit to rebuild their financial stability through transparent loan products and consumer-first policies.

    Disclaimer:
     Loans at Last is not a lender and does not make credit decisions. All loan approvals, rates, and terms are determined by third-party tribal direct lenders based on their underwriting guidelines. Same-day funding is not guaranteed and is subject to lender processing timelines. Borrow responsibly.

    Project Name: Loans At Last
    Registered Office Address: 1095 Sugar View Dr Ste 500 Sheridan, WY 82801
    Company Website: https://loansatlast.com/
    Email: smith@loansatlast.com
    Phone: 307-777-7311
    Contact person name: Smith
    contact person email: smith@loansatlast.com

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Oregon State Fire Marshal urges Oregonians to check fireworks restrictions, keep celebrations legal and safe

    Source: US State of Oregon

    ith fireworks sales beginning today, the Oregon State Fire Marshal is reminding people to celebrate the Fourth of July responsibly and legally. The 2025 fireworks retail sales season in Oregon runs from June 23 through July 6, and the agency’s message is clear: “Keep it legal. Keep it safe.”

    As Oregonians make plans for the holiday, they’re urged to check local rules and restrictions on both the sale and use of fireworks—whether celebrating at home or traveling.

    “Before lighting any fireworks, make sure you know what’s allowed where you are,” Oregon State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. “We want everyone to enjoy the holiday, but it’s critical to follow the law and avoid actions that could cause a fire or injury.”

    Local governments across Oregon may set additional restrictions on the sale or use of fireworks, especially in areas at higher risk of wildfires. It’s the responsibility of those using fireworks to understand and follow local laws.

    Fireworks safety and legal reminders
    Consumer-legal fireworks may be purchased only from permitted retailers and stands. These fireworks may not be used on:

    Public lands and parks
    National parks and forests
    Bureau of Land Management lands
    U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service properties
    Oregon state beaches, parks, and campgrounds
    Private lands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry

    To help reduce the risk of fire and injury, fire officials urge Oregonians to follow the four Bs of safe fireworks use:

    Be prepared: Have a bucket of water or a hose nearby.
    Be safe:     Keep children and pets at a safe distance. Never use fireworks near dry grass or other flammable materials.
    Be responsible:     Do not relight duds. Soak used fireworks in water before disposal.
    Be aware:     Use only legal fireworks and only where they are allowed.
    Illegal fireworks and consequences

    Oregon law prohibits the possession, use, or sale of any fireworks that fly into the air, explode, or travel more than 12 feet horizontally on the ground without a permit from the state fire marshal. This includes items such as bottle rockets, Roman candles, and firecrackers.

    Violations are a Class B misdemeanor, with a maximum fine of $2,500. Those who misuse fireworks or are found to be responsible for them causing damage may be held financially responsible for fire suppression and other costs. Parents can also be held liable for damage caused by their children.

    Learn more
    The Oregon State Fire Marshal offers resources on fireworks laws, retail sale permits, and safety tips on its fireworks webpage. For a safe celebration this Fourth of July, know the law, check local restrictions, and always keep it legal and safe.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Saskatchewan Student Aid Applications Now Open for Post-Secondary Students

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on June 25, 2025

    The 2025-26 Saskatchewan Student Aid applications are now available for students pursuing post-secondary education this fall. 

    Students interested in taking advantage of Saskatchewan Student Aid can fill out an online application to be assessed for a variety of provincial and federal grants and loans. They can also apply for several other student aid programs including scholarships, bursaries, grants and student loan forgiveness.

    “The Saskatchewan Student Aid Fund helps students access post-secondary education from their first year through to joining Saskatchewan’s workforce,” Advanced Education Minister Ken Cheveldayoff said. “The Government of Saskatchewan remains committed to investing in financial support to enable students to complete their post-secondary education and build rewarding lives and careers in Saskatchewan.”

    In 2025-26, the province will provide $46.5 million in direct financial support to over 24,000 students. This includes $34.4 million in loans and grants and $12.1 million in scholarships and bursaries.

    Through both Canada and Saskatchewan Student Grants and the Saskatchewan Advantage Scholarship, students could receive up to $5,850 in non-repayable funding.

    In addition, the Saskatchewan Student Grant for Students with Dependants is available to lower income students who qualify for student aid. They may receive up to $950 in additional funding per dependant per year.

    Sky Southwind, 2025 Business Diploma graduate:

    “Accessing financial aid made a huge difference in my education journey. I was grateful to have so many options for support, including scholarships and awards, that helped me cover my every day and unexpected expenses while studying full time. The support lifted a huge weight off my shoulders and motivated me to show up, work hard, and overcome challenges. I am proud of what I accomplished so far and truly grateful for the help that kept me on track to build a strong foundation for my future.”

    Post-secondary graduates who live and work in Saskatchewan can also benefit from the newly expanded Graduate Retention Program, which now provides up to $24,000 in tax credits. Since 2008, the Graduate Retention Program has benefited more than 85,000 graduates.

    By accessing the Saskatchewan Student Aid Fund, students are making a valuable investment in themselves and their futures, paving the way for personal and professional growth.

    To learn more about student aid, visit: Saskatchewan.ca/student-aid.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: AI-Generated Scams Claim 62% More Victims Year-Over-Year Despite Declining Consumer Concern, New Sift Report Reveals

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN FRANCISCO, June 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Sift, the AI-powered fraud platform delivering identity trust for leading global businesses, today released its Q2 2025 Digital Trust Index, revealing a troubling disconnect between consumer confidence and actual vulnerability to AI-generated fraud. The report exposes a dangerous “confidence paradox” where scam sophistication is outpacing consumer awareness, creating unprecedented risks for businesses and their customers.

    The Confidence Paradox: When Familiarity Breeds Vulnerability

    Despite growing familiarity with GenAI, the data reveals a concerning trend: 27% of those targeted by GenAI have been successfully scammed, a 62% increase from 2024. This surge occurs even as consumer concern about AI fraud has dropped significantly—from 79% in 2024 to just 61% today, an 18-point decrease that signals dangerous complacency.

    Scam sophistication is outpacing consumer defenses. According to the Sift-commissioned survey, 70% of consumers say scams have become harder to detect in the past year. Yet paradoxically, overall fear of AI-powered fraud is declining, creating a perfect storm for cybercriminals.

    Generational Divide: Digital Natives Most at Risk

    The report reveals a striking generational paradox. Gen Z and Millennials—the demographics most comfortable with AI technology—report the highest confidence in identifying scams (52% and 44%, respectively) yet are successfully victimized at alarming rates (30% and 23%). In contrast, Gen X and Baby Boomers express lower confidence (30% and 13%) but demonstrate more cautious online behavior, resulting in lower scam success rates (19% and 12%).

    Enterprise Risk: Consumer Data Practices Expose Businesses

    Beyond individual fraud, the report uncovers significant enterprise security risks. Despite widespread privacy concerns, 31% of consumers admit to entering personal or sensitive information into GenAI tools. Among this group, the most commonly shared data includes email addresses (55%), phone numbers (49%), home addresses (44%), and financial information (33%). Most alarmingly, 14% admitted to sharing company trade secrets, creating dual exposure for both individuals and their employers.

    Behavioral Patterns Reveal Cybercriminal Operations

    Analysis of Sift’s Global Data Network, which processes over 1 trillion events annually, reveals distinct behavioral signatures that differentiate fraudsters from legitimate users. Key findings include:

    • Fraudsters use 36% more payment methods than legitimate users
    • Criminal networks employ 20% fewer IP addresses, suggesting coordinated operations
    • Peak fraud activity occurs during late-night hours (10 p.m. to 5 a.m. local time) when many fraud teams are offline


    The Business Imperative

    “AI-generated scams and deepfakes are proliferating with speed and concerning sophistication, leaving even the most informed consumers at risk,” said Kevin Lee, SVP of Customer Experience, Trust & Safety at Sift. “Businesses must fight fire with fire—using AI to secure identity trust at every customer touchpoint, which ultimately creates better consumer experiences, mitigates fraud, and fosters profitable growth.”

    The full findings from Sift’s Q2 2025 Digital Trust Index are available here

    About Sift
    Sift is the AI-powered fraud platform delivering identity trust for leading global businesses. Our deep investments in machine learning and user identity, a data network scoring 1 trillion events per year, and a commitment to long-term customer success empower more than 700 customers to grow fearlessly. Brands including DoorDash, Yelp, and Poshmark rely on Sift to unlock growth and deliver seamless consumer experiences. Visit us at sift.com and follow us on LinkedIn.

    Media Contact:
    Victor White
    VP, Corporate Marketing, Sift
    press@sift.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK government gathers business and environment leaders in support of UN nature agreement

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    UK government gathers business and environment leaders in support of UN nature agreement

    UK Government hosts a major international nature finance event attended by His Majesty the King at Lancaster House.

    Secretary of State Steve Reed speaking at Nature Action

    ·        Key commitments made by the private sector to deploy millions of dollars of investment for nature.

    ·        Comes after government announces modern Industrial Strategy to make the UK the sustainable finance capital of the world.

    The UK has brought together foreign governments, Indigenous leaders, as well as leaders from business and finance representing trillions of pounds, to increase the flows of private finance to nature at an event today (25 June) at Lancaster House, London. 

    The event, called ‘Nature Action: Mobilising Frameworks and Finance’, included roundtable discussions of how to drive private-sector investment in nature, along with cross-sector announcements and commitments, and a reception attended by His Majesty the King. 

    Held during London Climate Action Week, and ahead of COP30 in Brazil in November, the event is designed to drive delivery of the deal agreed by almost 200 countries at the UN Nature summit in Montreal two years ago to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030, as well as the Paris Agreement. 

    The global nature deal saw countries agree to a major increase in the amount of money invested in tackling nature loss and restoring threatened habitats. The agreement set out a target to mobilise $200 billion per year globally by 2030, including $20 billion in flows to developing countries by 2025, rising to $30 billion by 2030. 

    Private finance will play a crucial role in meeting these ambitious targets and funding the protection and restoration of nature. The event will showcase new and innovative ways to invest in nature, which is crucial to ensuring the health of our oceans and forests for the future. Raising finance for nature recovery will mean that these precious habitats continue to play vital roles in our ecosystems for future generations.

    Environment Secretary Steve Reed, speaking at Lancaster House, said: 

    “Nature underpins everything. Without it there is no economy, no food, no health and ultimately no society.  

    “With this Government, Britain stands ready to lead on climate and nature. 

    “The UK is playing our part to protect nature at home and abroad. We will work with other nations around the world who commit to do the same.” 

    Ruth Davis, Special Representative for Nature, said: 

    “Nature is the bedrock of the world’s financial systems and economies. It is the air we breathe, the water we drink and the food we eat – but it is in crisis. 

    “We can no longer rely on public finance alone to tackle the scale of the challenge before us. We must harness the potential of the private sector to drive nature restoration, super-charging opportunities for businesses to see a return on investments in a nature-positive economy – the ambition shown today is a step along that journey.” 

    Tony Juniper, Chair of Natural England, said:

    “We must embrace high ambition in mobilising the finance needed to achieve nature’s recovery, ending the short termism which is leading to the destruction of the natural systems on which we depend. The web of life is in decline, and urgent action is needed to halt and reverse the process of running down nature’s capital assets.

    “Growing nature is an integral part of growing the economy; if we look after nature, it will look after us. Helpful progress has been made today and now we need to harness that for practical action”

    This builds upon actions that the Government has already taken to direct private finance towards nature. In March, The British Standards Institution launched the Government-backed Nature Investment Standards, which will help nature-friendly investments across the UK to grow by building confidence among investors. The Government is also gathering views from industry on how to support economic growth while powering nature recovery, with a Call for Evidence currently underway seeking ideas from business and investors – delivering a key recommendation of the Corry Review and the commitments made in the Land Use Framework consultation. 

    This came alongside the announcement that the UK will join a new global coalition, the Friends of Cali Fund, which brings together governments and businesses to champion the fair and equitable sharing of benefits they derive from nature. 

    Business attendees used the summit to make announcements including: 

    • Basecamp Research is expanding its biodiscovery network – adding Malawi, Hungary, and the Scripps Institution of Oceanography – extending its benefit sharing to 27 countries.
    • A future contribution to the Cali Fund by Ginkgo Bioworks, a leading biotech company
    • A new collaboration between Conservation International and Silvania to deploy millions of dollars of private capital into nature-based solutions. The collaboration will unlock further funding for the protection and restoration of critical ecosystems
    • Financial Sector Deepening Africa, a specialist African development agency, will launch a Nature Finance Innovation Lab with support from the UK Government to address the urgent need to unlock private investment in locally developed nature first projects
    • Environment Bank is launching an innovative Nature Shares product in the UK as a voluntary opportunity for business to invest in. These will help restore vital habitats such as woodlands and wetlands, improve water quality, build flood resilience, and enhance community access to nature.

    London Climate Action Week brings together climate expertise and leaders from London and beyond to focus on local, national and international action to restore cut carbon emissions and keep global temperature increases below 1.5c. 

    Clean growth presents a huge opportunity for our economy and these measures come as part of a Government effort to make UK the sustainable finance capital of the world as part of our modern Industrial Strategy.

    Growth opportunities will be seen all through London Climate Action Week. The Lancaster House event follows a recent launch of a Call for Evidence on expanding the role of the private sector in nature recovery – delivering a key recommendation of the Corry Review. 

    NOTES TO EDITORS

    Tanya Steele, Chief Executive at WWF-UK said:

    “Nature underpins our lives – from our food to the economy and even our mental health. Reversing the dramatic consequences of climate change and nature loss demands urgent action to safeguard the world we love. Investing now so people and the natural world don’t pay the price later is not just the right thing for the planet – it’s smart economics. It creates jobs, builds resilience, and reduces risks for governments, people, and businesses alike. But finance alone isn’t enough – without strong policies and regulations, we risk funding solutions with one hand while driving destruction with the other. As critical climate talks in Brazil approach, WWF urges leaders in government to put the policies in place and business to unlock the finance needed to end deforestation and reverse nature loss this decade.”

    Updates to this page

    Published 25 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Entire Michigan Congressional Delegation Calls on President Trump to Approve Disaster Declaration

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jack Bergman (MI-1)

    Today, Rep. Jack Bergman – alongside Senators Slotkin and Peters and Reps. Barrett, Dingell, Huizenga, James, McClain, McDonald-Rivet, Moolenaar, Scholten, Stevens, Thanedar, Tlaib, and Walberg – sent a bipartisan letter to President Donald J. Trump, urging him in the strongest possible terms to approve Governor Whitmer’s May 16 request for a Major Disaster Declaration.

    The Members wrote in part, “The unprecedented storm brought record levels of snow and freezing rain to thirteen counties and one federally recognized tribe, causing widespread damage to homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure. Tens of thousands of residents were left without heat or power, prompting the State of Michigan to activate the Michigan National Guard and local jurisdictions to implement emergency response efforts.

    “Although substantial progress has been made in restoring power, heating homes, clearing roadways, and removing debris, the recovery process remains far from complete nearly three months later. State and local resources have been expended, and federal support is desperately needed to continue recovery efforts.

    “Governor Whitmer’s May 16 request has received strong bipartisan support across both chambers of Congress. On May 19, Senator Peters, Senator Slotkin, and Representative Bergman wrote to you in full support of her request, and on June 9, they followed up with a letter to Small Business Administrator Loeffler endorsing the Governor’s June 5 request for an administrative declaration of disaster.

    “The counties of Alcona, Alpena, Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Crawford, Emmet, Montmorency, Oscoda, Otsego, Presque Isle, Kalkaska, Mackinac, as well as the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians, can afford to wait no longer. Though they responded swiftly, and with the help of the State, and have made meaningful strides toward recovery, they cannot adequately handle this burden alone.”

    John Kran, President & CEO, Michigan Electric Cooperative Association (MECA) noted, “In late March and early April, northern lower Michigan and part of the Upper Peninsula were hit with an unprecedented ice storm, impacting cooperative members across 12 counites. The State of Michigan’s May 16 request for a major disaster declaration is a critical step in helping our communities and cooperatives move forward after this historic event. Michigan’s electric cooperatives are incredibly grateful to Congressman Bergman, Senator Peters, Senator Slotkin and their House colleagues for strong, bipartisan support on this critical issue.”

    You can read the full letter here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Embassy Bank Appoints Adrienne Kwiatek-Holub to Vice President of Business Banking

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BETHLEHEM, Pa., June 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Embassy Bank is proud to announce the appointment of Adrienne Kwiatek-Holub to Vice President of Business Banking. A seasoned professional with over 30 years of experience in commercial banking, Adrienne brings a wealth of knowledge, leadership, and a deep commitment to the Lehigh Valley community.

    A native of Lehigh Valley, Adrienne earned her bachelor’s degree from Franklin & Marshall College, and her MBA from Lehigh University. Throughout her career, she has been a passionate advocate for local businesses and a dedicated community leader.

    Adrienne is a former President of Commercial Real Estate Women (CREW) Lehigh Valley and currently serves on the Legacy and Inclusion Committees. She is actively involved in several nonprofit boards and is known for her enthusiastic support of youth programs as a proud “Band Parent” and “Scout Mom.”

    Her professional and community contributions have earned her numerous accolades, including the SUITS Award from Equi-librium Inc., and recognition as a 2024 Women of Influence by Lehigh Valley Business. She has written articles that have been featured in Network Magazine and Lehigh Valley Business.

    “We are thrilled to welcome Adrienne to the Embassy Bank team,” said David M. Lobach, Jr., Chairman, President and CEO, Embassy Bank. “Her experience, leadership, and deep roots in the Lehigh Valley make her an outstanding addition to our business banking group.”

    About Embassy Bank

    Embassy Bank For the Lehigh Valley is a full-service community bank operating ten branch offices in the Lehigh Valley area of Pennsylvania. The Bank is the largest Lehigh Valley headquartered community bank and, as of June 30, 2024, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation’s Summary of Deposits indicates that the Bank holds the 4th spot in deposit market share in Lehigh and Northampton Counties combined. For more information, visit www.embassybank.com.

    Contact:
    David M. Lobach, Jr.
    Chairman, President and CEO
    (610) 882-8800

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e688509f-3896-4118-8a63-9f9dedaf06be

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Public Release of Micron Draft Environmental Impact Statement

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today marked a major step forward for the Micron project in Central New York with the public release of the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS), a required component of both the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQR) and the federal National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The approximately 20,000-page document, jointly prepared by the Onondaga County Industrial Development Agency, the US Commerce Department and Micron, reflects one of the most thorough analyses ever conducted for a project in New York State, befitting the historic nature and transformative impact of Micron’s plan to invest up to $100 billion and support the creation of nearly 50,000 jobs over the next 20-plus years and will include the nation’s largest clean room space at approximately 2.4 million square feet.

    “We’re transforming Upstate New York’s economy one microchip at a time,” Governor Hochul said. “This marks a major milestone in Micron’s commitment to New York, showing how economic growth and environmental protection go hand-in-hand. This project is set to transform Central New York — and we’re moving full speed ahead.”

    Micron Executive Vice President of Global Operations Manish Bhatia said, “We appreciate the local, state, and federal agencies whose assistance and review have been instrumental in helping us reach this important milestone. Micron remains focused on bringing leading-edge memory manufacturing to New York. We’ve taken great care to prepare comprehensive draft environmental impact statement materials for review by the public and by local, state, and federal government agencies. As we move toward ground preparation later this year, we look forward to working closely with the lead agencies to ensure the process meets all regulatory requirements and provides meaningful opportunities for community input.”

    The public release of the DEIS is the latest milestone marking the ongoing partnership between Micron and New York State that was forged in October 2022 when Micron chose Central New York for its megafab. Governor Hochul has worked closely with local, state and federal partners to prepare for Micron’s arrival and make continued investments in the community and the region. As part of the Governor’s Green CHIPS incentive program, Micron will work to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, expand water restoration, reuse, and recycling efforts and target carbon-free energy, aligning with New York’s goal of achieving a clean energy economy. Over the next 45 days, the public will be able to comment on the findings in the DEIS. Within the comment period, an in-person public hearing will be held on July 24 at Liverpool High School. The comment period closes on August 11. Instructions on how to comment are available on the Onondaga County Office of Economic Development website.

    This $100 billion investment by Micron is the largest private investment in New York’s history and will contain the largest cleanroom in the United States. And by the end of the decade, one in four U.S. made chips will be produced within 350 miles of Upstate New York — no other region in the country will manufacture a greater share.

    Micron’s presence in Central New York, represents transformative growth in Upstate New York. This includes:

    • 9,000 new, good paying jobs at all levels of education on site
    • Up to 50,000 new permanent jobs in the region over next 30 years and tens of thousands of construction jobs over the next 20 years to build the campus
    • An additional $9.5 billion in regional economic output annually starting in 2027, ramping up to over $16 billion annually by 2041
    • An additional $3.3 billion in annual disposable income for Central New Yorkers by 2035, averaging to $5.4 billion annually in 30 years
    • Nearly $20 billion in revenue for state and local governments to improve schools and other public services

    After decades of stagnation, the Central NY population is expected to increase. Micron’s project is expected to attract upwards of 84,000 people to New York — the vast majority of them (76,000+) to the Central New York Region. To handle this growth, planned investments include:

    • Long-term infrastructure investments to support regional growth, including expanded water, wastewater, gas, electric and transportation systems
    • The $500 million Community Investment Fund developed to ensure inclusive economic growth, workforce development & quality of life enhancements for Central New York
    • The flagship location of the state’s new $200 million ON-RAMP workforce development program on the South Side of Syracuse
    • Governor Hochul’s historic housing policies include multiple initiatives and funding programs at the state level, and local policies are being developed to stimulate the regional market to increase the supply of affordable, high quality housing choices to meet high demand

    Senator Charles Schumer said, “This is a major step forward in getting shovels in the ground and bringing to life Micron’s transformational investment in Central NY. Thanks to my bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law, tens of thousands of good-paying jobs are on the horizon for our community and we are bringing semiconductor manufacturing back to America, with Upstate NY leading the way. I’m grateful for Governor Hochul’s partnership in bringing manufacturing investments and jobs back to Upstate New York.”

    Representative John W. Mannion said, “Micron’s historic investment continues to move forward with the transparency, environmental responsibility, and community engagement that Central New Yorkers expect and deserve. As the co-prime sponsor of New York’s Green CHIPS legislation, I worked with Governor Hochul and partners across all levels of government to help lay the groundwork for this transformational project. I remain committed to building on the record investments I’ve secured for workforce training — including MACNY apprenticeships, ON-RAMP, K-12 education, and career pathways — that are preparing NY-22 residents for a high-tech future full of opportunity and promise in every corner of our community.”

    Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh said, “The Micron project will have a transformational impact on the City of Syracuse and our entire region. We welcome the release of the DEIS as a major step forward for the project and as an essential action to ensure our region’s natural resources and environment are safeguarded. I thank Governor Hochul, County Executive McMahon, Micron and all our partners for continuing their efforts to make Syracuse and Central New York a global leader in the semi conductor industry.”

    New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton said, “Responsible economic development starts with rigorous environmental review to fully evaluate and mitigate potential impacts to natural resources. Thanks to Governor Hochul’s leadership, this critical step in the review process will provide for robust public review of this once-in-a-generation project. DEC is proud to work with our federal, state, and local partners to help safeguard Central New York’s air, water, and lands as the Micron project advances.”

    Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Today’s milestone represents the latest step in Micron’s historic commitment to Central New York. The DEIS is an important piece in any economic development project – especially for one of this size and scope – and demonstrates that this project is advancing through the critical approval process. New York State and Micron continue to work together to ensure that this unprecedented megafab, which will produce generational changes that benefit the region and the state, advances, and succeeds.”

    New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, “This is truly an exciting time for Central New York, and the State Department of Transportation is playing a major role in the transformation of this entire region. As we continue to transform the transportation network on a scope and scale not seen in upstate New York while also righting the wrongs of the past and connecting communities across Syracuse through our historic I-81 Viaduct Project, we are helping prepare Central New York for the influx of jobs and growth that Micron will generate across the region. With Governor Hochul’s targeted investments and support, the state transportation system will be ready to accommodate Micron and the generational impact it will have on all facets of life in Central New York. We look forward to continuing to work with the Central New York community and Micron and as we begin to consider the next round of infrastructure investments in the near future.”

    New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) President and CEO Doreen M. Harris said, “Micron’s historic investment in the Empire State is poised to bring thousands of new opportunities to New Yorkers across all skill levels. In releasing their Draft Environmental Impact Statement, Micron is showing what it means to lead by example — powering the technology of the future with zero-emission electricity while driving real economic growth for future generations.”

    New York Power Authority President and CEO Justin E. Driscoll said, “Micron’s arrival in New York will reshape the local economy, bringing thousands of good-paying construction, manufacturing and tech jobs to Central New York. NYPA is proud to support Micron’s historic investment in the state with significant allocations of low-cost power that will spur lasting economic growth in the region.”

    New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Commissioner Pro Tem Randy Simons said, “The release of Micron’s Draft Environmental Impact Statement marks a significant achievement in this major initiative to create thousands of new jobs in Central New York. Our agency looks forward to working with our state and federal partners to preserve important resources while advancing economic development and quality of life in the region.”

    New York State Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said, “Micron’s remarkable commitment to social and environmental sustainability is on full display with this impressive document, which can serve as a blueprint for corporate responsibility. Right from the start, Micron has proven itself to be a good corporate neighbor and is fast becoming a foundational part of the fabric of Upstate economic development and quality of life.”

    New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, “The release of Micron’s Draft Environmental Impact Statement illustrates the company’s strong environmental values and marks a pivotal step forward in our shared vision for a prosperous, inclusive Central New York. As we prepare for the unprecedented benefits of Micron’s $100 billion investment in the region, we look forward to putting Governor Hochul’s historic housing policies to work creating homes for a growing workforce and helping to ensure the long-term success of Micron, and of Central New York and its residents.”

    New York State Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon said, “While the partnership between New York State and Micron has been an integral step toward bringing good-paying advanced manufacturing careers to Upstate New York, workforce development cannot come at the cost of our crucial natural resources. The DEIS will help to ensure our environment and communities are being safeguarded as we work to extend greater economic opportunities to New Yorkers and make our state a safe, affordable place to live and work.”

    State Senator Rachel May said, “This report has been a long time in the making and I hope many others in CNY will join me in reading it carefully and engaging in the public comment process. We have heard a lot about the benefits this project will bring. Now we need to consider the impact it will have on our natural systems and how best to join economic growth to careful preservation of the precious resources that support us and define our region.”

    State Senator Chris Ryan said, “The release of the DEIS is greeted with anticipation and excitement because this is a moment of great importance. The findings of this historical report, and the planned investments in Central New York, will help ensure the region can take the needed steps to prepare for this generationally transformative project, and the thousands of jobs it will bring. I encourage residents to participate in the public comment and public hearing process. All of us, working together as a region, will benefit from this monumental opportunity.”

    Senator Kirsten Gillibrand said, “Governor Hochul’s success thus far in securing Micron’s investment in New York is impressive, and I am thrilled to see further progress with the DEIS release. Not only will Micron’s investment create up to 50,000 new permanent jobs in the region over the next 30 years, it will also benefit our economy by increasing regional economic output by $9.5 billion starting in 2027 and contribute to efforts toward clean energy by using 100% carbon-free electrical power. I will keep supporting efforts to bring chip manufacturing to New York so our state can continue to lead the nation on innovation.”

    Assemblymember William Magnarelli said, “Micron has the potential to transform not only the local community, but the regions’ employment forecast. The release of the DEIS is the most recent development that emphasizes the continual progress and investment required to prepare for its arrival.”

    Assemblymember Al Stirpe said, “The promise of Micron is one step closer with the public release of the Draft Environmental impact Statement. One step closer to the economic prosperity that comes along with tens of thousands of tech jobs, 20 years of non-stop construction work, as well as improved water, wastewater and transportation infrastructure. All done with a commitment to high environmental standards. Our region has waited for two generations for an opportunity like this, and now it’s right on our doorstep.”

    Assemblymember Pamela Hunter said, “The release of the Draft Environmental Impact Statement marks real progress in bringing transformational change to Central New York. Micron’s investment is not only creating jobs—it’s building opportunity for veterans, MWBEs, and communities that have historically been left behind. I’m proud to support this bold and inclusive vision for our region’s future.”

    CenterState CEO President and CEO Rob Simpson said, “The release of Micron’s Draft Environmental Impact Statement marks an important step forward for the company’s plans to expand and create thousands of good paying jobs in Central New York. We welcome the release of this report as a clear sign that the work is moving ahead for this critically important project. This DEIS reflects years of collaboration and diligence. Every step has been — and continues to be — shaped by public agencies working with Micron to protect our community’s vital natural resources. Transparency, accountability, and public input remain central to every stage, and this is no different. At the same time, we want to underscore the need for timeliness and momentum. Our region and our country need this project to come online as soon as possible to ensure our national security and economic competitiveness. We encourage the business community to get involved by reviewing the DEIS and advocating for this generational investment in our community.”

    Evergreen Action VP for States Justin Balik said, “Governor Hochul’s leadership has paved the way for Micron’s groundbreaking investment in New York, a project set to redefine sustainable economic development thanks to the state’s Green CHIPS incentive program and the federal CHIPS and Science law. Clean energy deployment is an integral component of economic development, creating new good paying jobs for New Yorkers, while simultaneously developing the technology of tomorrow with zero-emission electricity, ensuring sustainable economic growth for generations.”

    Central New York Community Engagement Committee Co-Chair Tim Penix said, “The release of this draft Environmental Impact Statement marks a significant milestone in bringing Micron’s historic investment to fruition. As Co-Chair of the Community Engagement Committee, I’ve witnessed firsthand the excitement and commitment of Central New Yorkers who see this as more than just economic development — it’s a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build a more equitable and prosperous future for our entire region. The comprehensive community engagement process we completed ensured that as this project moves forward, the voices and priorities of all Central New Yorkers will continue to guide how we maximize the benefits of this transformative moment.”

    MACNY President Randy Wolken said, “With today’s release, we are one step closer to breaking ground on Micron’s manufacturing facilities in Central New York. This project will create thousands of manufacturing jobs and will further elevate New York’s profile as a global hub for high-tech manufacturing and innovation. As we celebrate this critical milestone, the MACNY Team is excited, ready, and committed to collaborating with our members and community partners to help realize the full potential of this opportunity.”

    Governor Hochul has prioritized the semiconductor industry as a major part of her Executive Budgets since taking office. The Governor secured an additional $500 million capital investment for NY CREATES’ Albany Nanotech Complex with total State investment of $1 billion to jumpstart a $10 billion partnership that will bring a cutting-edge High NA EUV Lithography Center to the Complex. The Governor also announced the partnership with IBM, Micron, Applied Materials, Tokyo Electron and other leaders from the semiconductor industry last year as part of her commitment to establishing a global hub for semiconductor manufacturing in New York. Once completed, this new center will build on other semiconductor-related investments to make New York home to the first publicly owned High NA EUV Lithography Center in North America, support the long-term growth of New York’s tech economy and create and retain thousands of direct, indirect and union construction jobs.

    Governor Hochul has secured $100 million in additional funding for the Focused Attraction of Shovel-Ready Tracts New York (FAST NY) program. Launched in December 2022, FAST NY has awarded more than $175 million to prepare more than 2,500 acres across 20 sites in every Upstate region for shovel-readiness, a key feature businesses seek when looking to locate. Awards to improve sites have attracted companies such as Edwards Vacuum, Siemens Mobility, Chobani and fairlife.

    Additionally, in October 2023, Governor Hochul unveiled plans for the $15 million, 5,000 square-foot Micron Cleanroom Simulation Lab at Onondaga Community College, which will help to train students in Central New York for jobs at Micron.

    Most recently, Governor Hochul introduced a new, enhanced benefit tier for semiconductor supply chain companies; a new program to provide tax credits for large-scale semiconductor R&D investments of $100 million or more in qualified expenditures; a new semiconductor manufacturing workforce training incentive; and an overall 5-year extension of the Excelsior program.

    Semiconductors are vital to the nation’s economic strength, serving as the brains of modern electronics, and enabling technologies critical to U.S. economic growth, national security and global competitiveness. The industry directly employs over 300,000 people in the U.S. and supports more than 1.8 million additional domestic jobs. Semiconductors are a top five U.S. export, and the industry is the number one contributor to labor productivity, supporting improvements to the effectiveness and efficiency of virtually every economic sector — from farming to manufacturing.

    New York is home to a robust semiconductor industry of 156 semiconductor and supply chain companies that employ over 34,000 New Yorkers. Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, the industry is continuing to expand with major investments from semiconductor businesses and supply chain companies like Micron, GlobalFoundries, AMD, Edwards Vacuum, Menlo Micro and TTM Technologies to expand their presence in New York.

    MIL OSI USA News –