NewzIntel.com

Category: CTF

  • MIL-OSI USA: Action Taken on Legislation by Governor Phil Scott – May 28, 2025

    Source: US State of Vermont

    Montpelier, Vt. – Governor Phil Scott announced action on the following bills, passed by the General Assembly.

    On May 28, Governor Scott signed bills of the following titles:

    • S.50, An act relating to increasing the size of solar net metering projects that qualify for expedited registration
    • S.87, An act relating to extradition procedures
    • S.117, An act relating to wage and hour, unemployment compensation, and workers’ compensation

    To view a complete list of action on bills passed during the 2025 legislative session, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: 14 Arrested on Complaints Alleging More Than $25 Million in COVID-19 Relief and Small Business Loans Were Fraudulently Obtained

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LOS ANGELES – Fourteen defendants – including San Fernando Valley and Glendale residents – were arrested on two federal criminal complaints alleging they fraudulently obtained more than $25 million in taxpayer-funded COVID-19 relief funds and federally-guaranteed small business loans.

    The 18 total defendants named in the complaints – four defendants are believed to be in Armenia – are charged with conspiracy to defraud the government with respect to claims; false, fictitious, or fraudulent claims; wire fraud and attempted wire fraud; bank fraud and attempted bank fraud; money laundering conspiracy; laundering of monetary instruments; engaging in monetary transactions in property derived from specified unlawful activity; and/or structuring financial transactions to evade reporting requirements.

    The defendants arrested today include:

    • Vahe Margaryan, a.k.a. “William McGrayan,” 42, of Tujunga, who allegedly orchestrated a scheme to defraud numerous banks and the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Preferred Lender Program, a program designed to help small businesses that otherwise might not obtain financing. McGrayan allegedly directed owners of sham corporations to open bank accounts, make false statements, and concoct documents, including phony resumes and financial statements, to support loan applications to buy other sham corporations. McGrayan allegedly paid for phony tax returns that falsely reported millions in revenue and tens of thousands in tax due and owing. McGrayan, whose alleged criminal activity lasted from 2018 until January 2025, then directed the laundering of millions in fraud proceeds through various bank accounts.
    • Sarkis Gareginovich Sarkisyan, 37, a.k.a. “Samuel Shaw,” of Glendale, who allegedly, among other offenses, submitted a false application and bogus documents to obtain a loan under the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), which provided low-interest, forgivable loans to help small businesses retain their workforce and cover expenses. Sarkisyan allegedly applied in April 2021 on behalf of a fake business that received more than $700,000 in PPP funds.
    • Mery Babayan, 32, a.k.a. “Mery Diamondz,” of Van Nuys, together with co-defendants Margaryan and Hovannes Hovannisyan, 48, a.k.a. “John Harvard,” of Panorama City, in May 2021 allegedly defrauded a bank by representing the nonexistent sale of a sham business to another sham company to obtain an approximately $3 million federally guaranteed loan through the SBA’s Preferred Lending Program.
    • Felix Parker, 77, of North Hollywood, who in January 2023 allegedly made false statements and submitted fraudulent documents, including fake tax returns that falsely reported that his shell company, Canmar Promo, earned millions of dollars annually and owed tens of thousands in federal income taxes. Parker allegedly obtained more than $2 million in government-guaranteed funds earmarked to help small businesses.
    • Axsel Markaryan, 47, a.k.a. “Axel Mark,” of Pacoima, who in June 2023 allegedly fraudulently obtained more than $5 million in SBA loans via the submission of false statements and the submission of fake documents, including bogus tax returns. After the loans were obtained, Markaryan and his co-schemers in November 2023 laundered the money, including sending at least $100,000 to a co-schemer in Armenia.

    As a result of today’s takedown, law enforcement seized approximately $20,000 in cash, two money-counting machines, paper cash bands or currency straps in denominations of $2,000 and $10,000, multiple cell phones, multiple laptops, two loaded semi-automatic 9mm handguns, and boxes of 9mm ammunition.

    “Today’s enforcement action is intended to send a message to all criminals who take advantage of government programs designed to help those who need them most,” said United States Attorney Bill Essayli. “If you took COVID-19 or SBA money you weren’t entitled to, your door could be the next one we visit. Together with our law enforcement partners, my office will aggressively prosecute individuals who cheat the system meant to protect and support law-abiding citizens.”

    “Scheming to fraudulently obtain federal funds that were meant to provide assistance to the nation’s small businesses is unacceptable,” said the U.S. Small Business Administration Office of Inspector General (SBA-OIG) Western Region Acting Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Huang. “OIG will continue to ardently investigate fraudulently obtained SBA program funds, including COVID-19 pandemic-related loans, to protect taxpayers from fraud, waste, and abuse. I want to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners for their dedication and pursuit of justice.”

    “This transnational criminal network sought to defraud the government of millions of dollars and almost succeeded,” said Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Los Angeles Acting Special Agent in Charge John Pasciucco. “Through the diligent work of the El Camino Real Financial Crimes Task Force and our federal partners, HSI is continuing to identify these criminal groups looking to profit from the pandemic and will use all available resources to criminally prosecute or remove them from the country.”

    “Today, 14 individuals were arrested in connection with a fraudulent loan scheme in which they allegedly obtained in excess of $25 million through the SBA Paycheck Protection Program, Economic Injury Disaster Loan programs, and other federal funding programs,” said IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge Tyler Hatcher, Los Angeles Field Office. “These programs were established to assist individuals and businesses in need of financial assistance and instead were pilfered by the named defendants. IRS-CI is dedicated to identifying and dismantling criminal organizations that prey on assistance programs set up for the benefit of our law-abiding citizens.”

    A criminal complaint contains allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    If convicted, each defendant would face a statutory maximum sentence of decades in federal prison.

    On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolster efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus. 

    On September 15, 2022, the Attorney General selected the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Central and Eastern Districts of California to jointly head one of the three national COVID-19 Fraud Strike Force Teams. The Department of Justice established the Strike Force to enhance existing efforts to combat and prevent COVID-19 related financial fraud. The Strike Force combines law enforcement and prosecutorial resources and focuses on large-scale, multistate pandemic relief fraud perpetrated by criminal organizations and transnational actors, as well as those who committed instances of pandemic relief fraud. The Strike Force uses prosecutor-led and data analyst-driven teams to identify and bring to justice those who stole pandemic relief funds. Additional information regarding the Strike Force may be found at https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/justice-department-announces-covid-19-fraud-strike-force-teams. 

    Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at (866) 720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form. 

    SBA-OIG, IRS Criminal Investigation, and HSI are investigating these matters.

    The cases announced today were investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Inspector General and Homeland Security Investigations’ (HSI) El Camino Real Financial Crimes Task Force, a multi-agency task force that includes federal and state investigators who are focused on financial crimes in Southern California. 

    Assistant United States Attorneys Mark Aveis and Gregg Marmaro of the Major Frauds Section and Maxwell Coll of the Cyber and Intellectual Property Crimes Section are prosecuting these cases.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney’s Office in Chicago Obtains Forfeiture of $214 Million in Proceeds From Alleged “Pump and Dump” Investment Fraud Scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CHICAGO — The U.S. Attorney’s Office has successfully obtained forfeiture to the government of approximately $214 million in proceeds from an alleged “pump-and-dump” investment fraud scheme that previously resulted in charges against seven individuals.

    From November 2024 to February 2025, the defendants engaged in misleading promotion and coordinated trading of shares of China Liberal Education Holdings, Ltd., a company incorporated in the Cayman Islands that purported to provide educational services in China, according to an indictment returned in March in U.S. District Court in Chicago.  The scheme, known as a “pump-and-dump,” allegedly involved individuals in China posing as U.S.-based investment advisors on social media and messaging platforms and falsely promising significant returns from investments in the company.  The misleading promotion and coordinated trading caused the stock price to artificially rise, at which point the defendants sold thousands of shares and made millions of dollars in profits, the indictment states.  The stock price ultimately decreased significantly, at the expense of other investors, some of whom lost almost the entirety of their investment.

    During the investigation, federal law enforcement seized approximately $214 million in alleged proceeds from the fraud scheme. The funds are currently in U.S. custody. On Tuesday, U.S. District Judge Jorge L. Alonso granted a motion by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Chicago to have the money permanently forfeited to the United States.  The order allows for the government to return the money to victim investors.

    The forfeiture order was announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and Douglas S. DePodesta, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Office of the FBI.  Valuable assistance was provided by the Boston Regional Office of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and the SEC’s Office of Inspector General.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jared Hasten represents the government.

    “As alleged in the indictment and forfeiture complaint, the defendants defrauded U.S. investors through deceitful and coordinated trading activities,” said U.S. Attorney Boutros.  “Our attorneys and staff in this case placed a high priority on recovering funds for victims.  The large forfeiture order of more than $200 million should serve as a warning that federal law enforcement will aggressively pursue fraudulent profits from those who seek to prey upon investors by manipulating the U.S. stock market.”

    “Despite the overwhelming manipulation as alleged in this case, this serves as one of the premier FBI investigations in which the federal government was able to successfully recover victims’ hard-earned money before it disappeared into overseas bank accounts,” said FBI SAC DePodesta.  “This elaborate fraud scheme boasting bogus profit potentials has caused extensive harm to unsuspecting Americans.  The FBI will continue to work with our partner networks to ensure that justice is served against anyone who seeks to weaponize financial systems to gain personal profit.”

    Seven individuals were charged in the criminal indictment with wire fraud and securities fraud: LIM XIANG JIE CEDRIC, of Malaysia, MING-SHEN CHENG, of Taiwan, KO SEN CHAI, of Malaysia, KING SUNG WONG, of Malaysia, SIONG WEE VUN, of Malaysia, CHIEN LUNG MA, of Taiwan, and KOK WAH WONG, of Malaysia.  The defendants are not in custody and warrants have been issued for their arrests. The public is reminded that an indictment contains only charges and is not evidence of guilt.  The defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial at which the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

    If you believe you or someone you know may have been victimized by the fraud scheme charged in the indictment, you are encouraged to notify the FBI by completing this online form or calling 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324). 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Convicted Felon Who Fired Gun Outside Crowded S.F. Bar Sentenced To Three Years And Nine Months For Unlawful Possession Of Ammunition

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SAN FRANCISCO – Fernando Aguilera was sentenced yesterday to 45 months in federal prison for being a felon in possession of ammunition.  Senior U.S. District Judge William Alsup handed down the sentence.

    Aguilera, 37, a national of Honduras, was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 18, 2023.  On Feb. 12, 2025, Judge Alsup found Aguilera guilty of being a felon in possession of ammunition in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1) after a bench trial.  According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Aguilera took a gun out of his waistband on two occasions at a crowded bar in San Francisco.  He then left the bar and fired into the air two separate times with people and cars nearby.  When law enforcement arrived, Aguilera fled from the police before being apprehended in the garden area of a nearby residence.  Law enforcement found a firearm with the wrong caliber bullet stuck in the chamber next to Aguilera and ammunition in his bag.  At the time of his arrest, Aguilera had four prior felony convictions for being an accessory, being a prohibited person with ammunition, and second-degree burglary.

    United States Attorney Craig H. Missakian and FBI Special Agent in Charge Sanjay Virmani made the announcement.  

    In addition to the prison term, Judge Alsup also sentenced the defendant to a three-year period of supervised release.  The defendant has been in custody since the offense.  

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kelsey Davidson and Sophia Cooper prosecuted the case with the assistance of Kevin Costello and Marina Ponomarchuk.  The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the FBI and San Francisco Police Department. 
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Orlando U.S. Postal Employee Sentenced In “Fenta-Pill” Conspiracy

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Roy B. Dalton today sentenced Orlando Rosa Rodriguez (59, Orlando) to 5 years and 10 months in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and money laundering. The court also ordered Rosa Rodriguez to forfeit two vehicles, both of which were traceable proceeds of the offense. Rosa Rodriguez pleaded guilty on February 24, 2025.

    According to court documents, co-defendants Jayson Perez-Quinones (48, Orlando) and Jovan Rivera Rodriguez (36, Kissimmee) arranged to receive shipments of thousands of pills that were pressed to look like pharmaceuticals but contained fentanyl – (so-called “fenta-pills”). At their home in Orlando, Perez-Quinones and co-defendant Karen AltaGracia Perez (44, Orlando) packaged those pills into individual pill bags (pictured below) for street delivery.

    Perez-Quinones and Perez then distributed those bags to mid-level distributors such as Rosa Rodriguez for resale. Rosa Rodriguez distributed those pills to customers, including in the parking of his workplace at the U.S. Postal Service. Rosa Rodriguez earned more than $300,000 in one 20-month period on top of his salary from the U.S. Postal Service and VA disability benefits. He used those proceeds to purchase sports cars, including a Corvette worth approximately $80,000, a Porsche 911 Carrera Coup worth approximately $92,000, and a Porsche 718 Cayman Coup worth approximately $120,000.   

    On June 13, 2023, AltaGracia Perez was sentenced to five years and six months in federal prison for her role in the conspiracy. On August 8, 2023, Perez-Quinones and Rivera Rodriguez were sentenced to 15 years’ and 5 years’ imprisonment, respectively, for their roles in the conspiracy.

    This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, with assistance from the Orlando Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dana E. Hill.       

    This case was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Kanawha County Man Sentenced to Prison for Federal Fraud Crimes

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Donald A. Ennis, 43, of St. Albans, was sentenced today to two years and nine months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $513,072.28 in restitution for two counts of wire fraud. Ennis admitted that he filed false insurance claims to obtain $347,237.70 after setting fire to his residence and defrauded a volunteer fire department of $153,728 while serving as its finance and operations manager.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, in October 2018 Ennis purchased a residence on Ridgeview Way in St. Albans with assistance from a mortgage company that required him to insure the residence for loss. Ennis obtained a residential insurance policy with a maximum value of $161,100 for the dwelling and $120,825 for its contents. Ennis paid an annual premium of approximately $979.35 for the policy, which had effective dates from November 8, 2020, through November 8, 2021. The policy covered losses for multiple contingencies including fire, and explicitly excluded intentional acts of loss or damage by Ennis.

    Ennis admitted that he intentionally set fire to his residence on February 15, 2021. The fire department responded but could not extinguish the fire, which consumed the residence and left it and its contents a total loss. Ennis falsely reported the fire to his Indiana-based insurance company as an accident later that day and began the process of filing a claim. Ennis admitted that he placed a series of claims electronically from February 21, 2021, to March 19, 2021, fraudulently claiming losses from the fire. Ennis further admitted that he obtained $347,237.70 from the insurance company as a result of this wire fraud scheme. The fraudulent insurance funds were deposited in Ennis’ bank account.

    From at least 2009 through 2022, Ennis worked for a volunteer fire department serving the Tornado area of Kanawha County. As its finance and operations manager, Ennis had access to the fire department’s North Carolina-based bank debit card and regularly acted as its accountant. Ennis admitted that from some time prior to March 19, 2020 through about September 18, 2022, he fraudulently obtained $153,728 of the fire department’s funds through a series of ATM withdrawals and dozens of unauthorized online purchases with its debit card for his personal benefit.

    “This prosecution sends an important and firm message that those who commit arson for financial gain will be prosecuted and brought to justice,” said Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston. “The fire put others at risk – first responders as well as neighbors. The defendant also deprived the volunteer fire department of vital funds.”

    Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the West Virginia State Auditor’s Office (WVSAO) Public Integrity and Fraud Unit (PIFU), the West Virginia Offices of the Insurance Commissioner-Special Investigations Division, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

    United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Erik S. Goes prosecuted the case.

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:24-cr-129.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Methamphetamine Dealer Sentenced To More Than Seven Years In Federal Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Paul G. Byron today sentenced Robert Donoso (33, Orlando) to seven years and three months in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Donoso pleaded guilty on February 26, 2025. 

    According to court documents, Donoso engaged in importing and distributing methamphetamine for a year leading up to his arrest in April 2024. In April 2023, Donoso received a vehicle shipped from California that contained approximately 15 kilograms of methamphetamine and 10 pounds of marijuana that was concealed inside a hidden “trap.” On April 8, 2024, Donoso received a delivery of 11 kilograms of methamphetamine from Pherai Bogeajis and was detained by law enforcement. The next day, Bogeajis’s home was searched and agents located another 50 kilograms of methamphetamine and more than $700,000.

    Bogeajis (35, Orlando) previously pleaded guilty for his role in the case and was sentenced in November 2024 to 19 years and 7 months in federal prison. 

    This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, with assistance from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, the Orlando Police Department, and the Oviedo Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dana E. Hill.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Restaurant management company settles False Claims Act allegations involving Paycheck Protection loan

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALEXANDRIA, Va. – Both Management Services, Inc., located in Virginia Beach, has agreed to pay $750,000 to settle False Claims Act allegations that it certified that it was eligible to receive first and second draw loans under the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) for which it was not eligible.

    The PPP offered loans to eligible small businesses for economic relief during the COVID-19 pandemic. Only businesses with fewer than 500 employees (or fewer than an industry-based size standard, if applicable) were eligible for PPP loans. Under the Small Business Administration’s “affiliation rules,” businesses under common ownership or control were required to add their employee counts together when determining their size for purposes of eligibility. The PPP allowed certain eligible borrowers that previously received a PPP loan to apply for a second draw PPP loan with the same general loan terms as their first draw PPP loan.

    The settlement began with a lawsuit involving Both Management Services, Inc.’s second draw PPP loan, United States ex rel. Verity Investigation, LLC v. Both Management Services, Inc., , which was filed under the whistleblower provision of the False Claims Act.

    The settlement resolves allegations that Both Management Services, Inc. obtained two PPP loans by falsely representing the total number of its employees and/or its affiliates’ employees. The United States alleged that Both Management Services, Inc. falsely certified it was eligible, on the date of both applications, to receive PPP loans and forgiveness.

    This resolution was the result of a coordinated effort between the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia and the Small Business Administration.

    The matter was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney John E. Beerbower.

    A copy of this press release may be found on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Case records may be found on PACER under case number 2:24-cv-474.

    The civil claims settled are allegations only; there has been no determination of civil liability.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Malawi 100th WTO member to formally accept Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies

    Source: WTO

    Headline: Malawi 100th WTO member to formally accept Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies

    DG Okonjo-Iweala said: “The depletion of marine fish stocks globally requires our urgent collective action. I thank Malawi for joining this crucial collective effort. With Malawi’s instrument of acceptance, we have reached a milestone for putting into motion a multilateral deal that will support more sustainable use of our oceans and fisheries for current and future generations. With this 100th instrument, we now need just 11 more to add the Agreement to the WTO rulebook!”
    Ambassador Bwanali-Mussa said: “Malawi is committed to the multilateral trading system. Although we are not a coastal country, we fully support WTO members’ collective efforts to protect the environment, conserve global fish stocks and combat illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing. These efforts are integral to the protection of the livelihoods of vulnerable populations who rely on aquatic ecosystems for food security, employment, health and socio-economic resilience.”
    For the Agreement to enter into force, formal acceptances from two-thirds of WTO members are required – representing 111 members. The list of the 100 WTO members which have deposited their instruments of acceptance with the WTO is available here.
    At the WTO’s 12th Ministerial Conference (MC12) held in Geneva in June 2022, ministers adopted by consensus the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, setting new, binding, multilateral rules to curb harmful fisheries subsidies. The Agreement prohibits subsidies for illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, for fishing overfished stocks, and for fishing on the unregulated high seas. Ministers also recognized the needs of developing economies and least-developed countries by establishing a fund to provide technical assistance and capacity-building to help governments which have formally accepted the Agreement implement the new obligations.
    WTO members also agreed at MC12 to continue negotiating on remaining fisheries subsidies issues. The objective is to find consensus on additional provisions to further strengthen the disciplines on fisheries subsidies.
    Information for members on how to accept the Protocol of Amendment is available here.

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    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warren Questions Hegseth on DoD AI Contracting, Pushes for Competition, Protection of Government Data

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
    May 28, 2025
    Warren’s bipartisan bill on AI defense contracting overlaps with recent White House guidance, presents opportunity to protect national security
    Text of Letter (PDF)
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) wrote to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth asking him to explain how he will ensure the  Department of Defense’s (DOD) AI contracting processes will protect government data, save taxpayer funds, and promote competition. 
    In April, the White House’s Office of Management and Budget (OMB) released new guidance directing federal agencies to “ensur[e] the government and the public benefit from a competitive American AI marketplace.” The guidance asks federal agencies to pay careful attention to “vendor sourcing, data portability, and long-term interoperability to avoid significant and costly dependencies on a single vendor,” with the goal of increasing competition, driving innovation, and keeping prices low. Notably, the OMB guidance specifically exempts national security systems.
    “[L]ike the administration, I seek to ensure that the DoD’s procurement decisions encourage competition and avoid consolidation that can lead to higher prices, concentration of risk, and the stifling of innovation,” concluded Senator Warren. 
    Senator Warren and Eric Schmitt (R-Miss.) recently reintroduced the Protecting AI and Cloud Competition in Defense Act of 2025, which includes provisions that align with the White House’s guidelines, but are specific to DoD. The bill would discourage vendor lock-in by directing DoD to use competitive award processes, prioritize interoperability, and consider multicloud solutions when contracting for AI, cloud computing, and data infrastructure tools across national security systems. 
    “The United States federal government is the largest purchaser of goods and services in the world, and the DoD is responsible for more than half of federal government contracting dollars. Consequently, DoD’s procurement decisions can have an enormous impact on how markets operate,” said Senator Warren. 
    DoD recently awarded $9 billion in contracts to Google, Oracle, Microsoft, and Amazon to build its cloud computing network and has requested an additional $1.8 billion for AI programs for fiscal year 2025. 
    To understand how the military might benefit from the new OMB guidance, Senator Warren asked Secretary Hegseth to explain how the department plans to prevent vendor lock-in, protect government data, and otherwise promote competition in procuring DoD systems by June 11, 2025. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: In Revere, Massachusetts, Warren Lays Out the Dangers of Republican Bill to Cut Health Care for Millions

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
    May 28, 2025
    Boston, MA – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) joined state and federal leaders at the Cambridge Health Alliance’s Revere Care Center to sound the alarm about Republicans’ planned cuts to health care for Massachusetts children, families, seniors, veterans and people with disabilities. 
    Senator Warren laid out the impact of these planned cuts to health care and food assistance, and explained how the cuts would raise costs for working families. 
    “Right now, you probably know someone who counts on Medicaid to pay for medicine that helps treat their cancer, the hip replacement they need to walk, the inhaler their kid needs to breathe, or the nursing home that takes care of their aging parents. And they are all at risk,” said Senator Warren. 
    Senator Warren also made clear that Massachusetts leaders are united in fighting back against the cuts. 
    “We believe that no senior should be kicked to the curb so that Mark Zuckerberg [can] buy another Hawaiian island. And we believe that no person with a disability who needs a home health aide should have to give that up so that Jeff Bezos can buy a third yacht. We believe that, and that is why we are here to fight back,” concluded Senator Warren. 
    Transcript: Remarks on Medicaid Cuts at the Cambridge Health Alliance’s Revere Care CenterMay 27, 2025
    As Delivered
    Senator Elizabeth Warren: It is a real honor to stand here with the Governor, with [] Senator [Markey], with [] Senator [Edwards], with [] Mayor [Keefe], with the doctors, with the people who fight for health care here in the Commonwealth. I am grateful for that and I look forward to the fact that when we partner up, that’s how we make real change. 
    So, last week the House of Representatives passed Donald Trump’s “big, beautiful bill.” This would be the greatest transfer of wealth—from just one piece of legislation—from the poorest Americans to the richest Americans ever before in US history. Think about that: these guys are actually out there making history by taking away—from hardworking families, from people down on their luck, from seniors, from little babies—so that a handful of billionaires and corporate CEOs can get more giveaways from the government. 
    That’s the Republican plan: Billionaires win, everyone else loses.
    Now, the details are gruesome on this bill. This bill would: cut Medicaid, gut the Affordable Care Act, and slash food assistance.
    If it passes the Senate, this bill will rip health care away from 14 million people, over a quarter of a million right here in Massachusetts — all to pay for tax handouts for billionaires. 
    This Republican bill will raise costs for working families — from groceries to health care to utility bills — while making the richest Americans even richer.
    Here in Massachusetts, the consequences will be severe.
    In our state, Medicaid is known as MassHealth, and it covers almost two million people. If this bill passes, every one of them will be at risk of losing their health coverage. 
    That is one-third of all newborn babies and their mamas right here in Massachusetts at risk for losing their health care.
    That’s checkups and trips to the doctor for ear infections and money for asthma medications and for antibiotics for more than a third of all kids here in Massachusetts.
    That’s paying the monthly bills for almost TWO-thirds of all nursing home residents here in Massachusetts.
    As the Governor said, the pain will echo throughout our communities, hitting even those who don’t currently receive direct care. Without the guaranteed payments from Medicaid, our hospitals and community health centers are at risk.  
    Community hospitals, even with Medicaid reimbursement, are already struggling. 
    And right now, nearly half the funding for Massachusetts community health centers – which saves money by preventing people from needing to go to the emergency room – half their money currently comes from Medicaid that is on the chopping block by the Republicans. 
    When those hospitals and community health centers are forced to close, we all lose.  
    Now, right now, you probably know someone who counts on Medicaid to pay for the medicine that helps treat their cancer. You probably know someone who got the hip replacement they needed so that they can walk paid for by Medicaid. You probably know someone whose kid gets their inhaler from Medicaid, or the nursing home that takes care of their aging parents. And all of those are at risk.
    This is a full-blown crisis, and we are here to sound the alarm.
    I’m here with Governor Healey and with the senators and everyone behind me because we believe that no one in America should go without health care so that Elon Musk can take a rocket ship ride to Mars.
    We believe that no senior should be kicked to the curb so that Mark Zuckerberg wants to buy another Hawaiian island. 
    And we believe that no person with a disability who needs a home health aide should have to give that up so that Jeff Bezos can buy a third yacht. 
    We believe that and that is why we are here to fight back.
    I am proud to stand beside the Governor, and beside the senators, beside the mayor to make sure that everyone in Massachusetts and around the country gets the health care that they deserve.
    And with that, I will turn it over to a wonderful partner and a tremendous fighter in the United States Senate—my partner, Ed Markey.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch, Klobuchar, Van Hollen Urge Support for Homebuilding Tax Credits in Upcoming Budget

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), and Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) urged the Trump Administration to drop its misguided plan to cut homebuilding tax credits in the midst of a housing crisis. The lawmakers urged the administration to reconsider its preliminary Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 budget request, which would completely eliminate funding for the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) HOME Investment Partnership Program.  
    “Many households are contributing more than half of their income to rent, leaving less for other needs like health care, groceries, or saving for emergencies. For-profit developers also struggle to build entry-level or middle-income housing, resulting in a focus on high-end construction with units unaffordable to working families,” wrote the Senators. “Now is the time for strong federal support for HOME and the Housing Trust Fund to close financing gaps and build more homes.”  
    “Unfortunately, reports of unauthorized funding freezes and contract cancellations have raised concerns among housing investors about the stability of all of the federal funding sources in their projects’ capital stack, leading them to reconsider their investments. Decreasing or eliminating the funding sources that make LIHTC projects financially feasible will have detrimental impacts on rural communities’ ability to build more housing, especially when coupled with Fannie Mae’s newly restricted investment activity in this space,” the Senators continued. 
    The Senators concluded: “States are making efforts to speed housing construction through zoning reforms, permitting streamlining, innovative incentive structures, and housing equity programs. Unless the federal government provides consistent, flexible funding to close the financing gap for major projects, this progress will stall. With that in mind, we urge you to provide an FY26 Budget Request that furthers HUD’s mission to ensure safe and clean affordable housing and reinforce low-income housing tax credit investor confidence by advocating for reliable funding for HOME and the Housing Trust Fund.” 
    HOME and the Housing Trust Fund programs work in conjunction with the low-income housing tax credit (LIHTC) to fuel affordable housing construction across the country. The LIHTC has funded the construction of almost 2.75 million affordable housing units across the country. However, despite the proven efficacy of these programs, the federal government has underinvested in them for decades, resulting in a severe, nationwide shortage of affordable rental housing for working families. 
    Read the full text of the letter. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Dan Goldman Leads Bipartisan Effort to Protect Federal Judges From Doxxing and Threats

    Source: US Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10)

    Bipartisan Appropriations Letter Urges Congress to Fund Grant to Scrub Judges’ Personal Information from the Internet 

     

    Threats Against Judges Have Risen Over 100% in the Last 6 Weeks, Coinciding with Harsh Rhetoric from Trump Administration 

     

    Read the Letter Here 

    Washington, D.C – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) and Congresswoman Mikie Sherill (NJ-11) led a bipartisan group of 39 of their colleagues in writing to the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, and Science Chairman Hal Rogers (KY-05) and Ranking Member Grace Meng (NY-06) requesting that they provide $10 million for a program within the bipartisan Daniel Anderl Judicial Security and Privacy Act of 2022 for state and local governments to remove the personal information of federal judges and their families from the internet, such as property tax records that would list addresses. 

    “As Donald Trump has escalated his attacks on federal judges, their safety and security are increasingly at risk. If judges alter their decisions out of fear for the safety of themselves and their families, then we no longer live under the rule of law,” Congressman Dan Goldman said. In order to enhance the security of federal judges, it is vital for Congress to fund this essential grant program and ensure that sensitive personal information, including home addresses, financial records, and details about family members, is kept private.” 

    Between 2015 and 2021, threats against federal judges rose by more than 450%, from 926 incidents in 2015 to 4,511 in 2021. The Trump administration’s recent rhetoric against individual judges who have rendered unfavorable rulings has only supercharged that trend, with threats against judges rising over 100% in the last six weeks alone. 

    “Time is of the essence in implementing the Anderl Act’s protections for our federal judges and their families, as members of the Federal judiciary have been exposed to an increased number of personal threats in connection to their role,” the Members wrote. 

    Named after Daniel Anderl—the son of a federal judge who was murdered by a disgruntled attorney who obtained the judge’s home address online—the law’s provisions authorizing anti-doxxing grants for state and local governments have never been funded. 

    “The importance of the Anderl Act to our federal judiciary and to our federal legal system cannot be overstated. It is critical that Congress take action to protect all our public servants on the federal bench and prevent this type of violence and threats in the future. Our judiciary, and by extension, our democracy, cannot continue to bear this burden alone,” the Members concluded. 

    Read the letter here or below:

    Dear Chair Rogers and Ranking Member Meng: 

    As you begin consideration of the Fiscal Year 2026 Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies appropriations bill, we ask that within the accounts funding the Department of Justice State and Local Law Enforcement Assistance account, you provide $10 million for the state and local government grant program authorized in Section 5934(c) of the Daniel Anderl Judicial Security and Privacy Act of 2022 (Public Law 117-263). 

    This program permits the Attorney General to make grants to States or units of local governments so they can remove personal information about federal judges and their families from their websites, such as property tax records that would list federal judges’ addresses. 

    Time is of the essence in implementing the Anderl Act’s protections for our federal judges and their families, as members of the Federal judiciary have been exposed to an increased number of personal threats in connection to their role.  Testifying before the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime and the Federal Government in February of this year, U.S. Marshals Service Director Ronald Davis said that threats against federal judges have doubled in the past 3 years. In fact, from 2015 to 2021, threats against federal court personnel jumped more than 450 percent, from 926 incidents recorded in 2015 to 4,511 incidents in 2021. 

    Among the incidents demonstrating the unfortunate urgency of these measures is the 2020 murder of Daniel Anderl, for whom the legislation was named. The 20-year-old son of New Jersey District Judge Esther Salas, Daniel was shot and killed at home by a disgruntled lawyer who found the judge’s address on the internet and also critically wounded Judge Salas’ husband. 

    After Judge James Robart’s 2017 decision to block former President Trump’s travel ban, critics posted the judge’s home phone and address online. Judge Robart received 40,000 messages, 1,100 of which were serious enough to be investigated, and so many death threats that U.S. marshals set up camp around his house. Additionally, in 2022, a California man was indicted for attempting to assassinate Justice Brett Kavanaugh. An FBI affidavit stated that the would-be assassin found Justice Kavanaugh’s address online. 

    In his annual year-end report in December, Chief Justice Roberts warned about the rising number of threats to the judiciary’s independence, including calls for violence against judges and “dangerous” suggestions by elected officials to disregard court rulings they disagree with. This warning was followed by another by the U.S. Marshals to federal judges indicating an “unusually high threat level” in March. The importance of the Anderl Act to our federal judiciary and to our federal legal system cannot be overstated. It is critical that Congress take action to protect all our public servants on the federal bench and prevent this type of violence and threats in the future. Our judiciary, and by extension, our democracy, cannot continue to bear this burden alone. 

    Thank you for your consideration of this important request. 

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: The Government of Canada makes a donation to The King’s Trust Canada in honour of the Royal Visit of Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    OTTAWA, May 28, 2025

    The Government of Canada will make a donation of $50,000 to The King’s Trust Canada to commemorate the visit of Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla to Canada.

    During their visit on May 26 and 27, Their Majesties took part in a number of noteworthy activities. The King delivered the Speech from the Throne, opening Canada’s 45th Parliament. This was His Majesty’s first visit as Sovereign of Canada. The Royal Visit showcased our rich Canadian identity, our cultural diversity and the vitality of our democratic institutions.

    The Government of Canada’s donation is part of a longstanding tradition of recognizing visits or tours by members of the Royal Family with a meaningful gesture. This contribution will be made to The King’s Trust Canada, an organization founded in 2011 by His Majesty King Charles III (formerly the Prince’s Trust Canada). The organization works with community partners, employers and educational institutions to help 100,000 young people across the country integrate into the workforce.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Tornado Watch 342

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Note:  The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
    SEL2

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 342
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    215 PM CDT Wed May 28 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Eastern Colorado
    Western Kansas
    Oklahoma Panhandle

    * Effective this Wednesday afternoon and evening from 215 PM
    until 1000 PM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A couple tornadoes possible
    Scattered large hail likely with isolated very large hail events
    to 3 inches in diameter possible
    Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph possible

    SUMMARY…Severe storms including supercells are expected to develop
    across the region this afternoon, moving generally southeastward
    through early/mid-evening. Large hail should be the most common
    severe risk, with tornado potential increasing near/east of the
    Colorado/Kansas border vicinity.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 60 statute miles
    east and west of a line from 40 miles north northwest of Burlington
    CO to 30 miles east southeast of Guymon OK. For a complete depiction
    of the watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS
    WOU2).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for
    tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch
    area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for
    threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements
    and possible warnings.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 341…

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 3 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 60 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 550. Mean
    storm motion vector 30025.

    …Guyer

    SEL2

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 342
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    215 PM CDT Wed May 28 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Eastern Colorado
    Western Kansas
    Oklahoma Panhandle

    * Effective this Wednesday afternoon and evening from 215 PM
    until 1000 PM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A couple tornadoes possible
    Scattered large hail likely with isolated very large hail events
    to 3 inches in diameter possible
    Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph possible

    SUMMARY…Severe storms including supercells are expected to develop
    across the region this afternoon, moving generally southeastward
    through early/mid-evening. Large hail should be the most common
    severe risk, with tornado potential increasing near/east of the
    Colorado/Kansas border vicinity.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 60 statute miles
    east and west of a line from 40 miles north northwest of Burlington
    CO to 30 miles east southeast of Guymon OK. For a complete depiction
    of the watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS
    WOU2).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for
    tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch
    area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for
    threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements
    and possible warnings.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 341…

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 3 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 60 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 550. Mean
    storm motion vector 30025.

    …Guyer

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW2
    WW 342 TORNADO CO KS OK 281915Z – 290300Z
    AXIS..60 STATUTE MILES EAST AND WEST OF LINE..
    40NNW ITR/BURLINGTON CO/ – 30ESE GUY/GUYMON OK/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 50NM E/W /36SE AKO – 32S LBL/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..3 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..60 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 550. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 30025.

    LAT…LON 39770144 36509992 36500208 39770370

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU2.

    Watch 342 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Mod (40%)

    Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes

    Low (20%)

    Wind

    Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

    Mod (50%)

    Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

    Low (10%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    Mod (60%)

    Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

    Mod (40%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    High (80%)

    For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: US Department of Labor rescinds 2022 guidance on Cryptocurrency in 401(k) Plans

    Source: US Department of Labor

    WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor’s Employee Benefits Security Administration has rescinded a 2022 compliance release that previously discouraged fiduciaries from including cryptocurrency options in 401(k) retirement plans.

    The 2022 guidance directed plan fiduciaries to exercise “extreme care” before adding cryptocurrency to investment menus. This language deviated from the requirements of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act and marked a departure from the department’s historically neutral, principled-based approach to fiduciary investment decisions. 

    “The Biden administration’s department of labor made a choice to put their thumb on the scale,” said U.S. Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer. “We’re rolling back this overreach and making it clear that investment decisions should be made by fiduciaries, not D.C. bureaucrats.”

    By rescinding the 2022 guidance, the department reaffirms its neutral stance, neither endorsing, nor disapproving of, plan fiduciaries who conclude that the inclusion of cryptocurrency in a plan’s investment menu is appropriate. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: US Department of Labor celebrates 50 years of partnering with small businesses to save lives, prevent injuries, strengthen bottom line

    Source: US Department of Labor

    WASHINGTON – For more than half a century, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s On-Site Consultation Program has been helping small and medium-sized businesses protect workers and improve safety at no cost and with complete confidentiality. 

    Launched in 1975, OSHA’s On-Site Consultation Program has grown to serve all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and several U.S. territories. It helps employers identify workplace hazards, improve safety practices, and build strong safety and health programs, all without triggering OSHA enforcement. 

    In the last decade alone, the program averaged nearly 24,000 worksite visits annually – 98 percent to worksites with 250 or fewer employees – and prevented nearly three million workers from exposure to hazards each year. A 2023 OSHA economic analysis estimated that these efforts generate $1.5 billion in national benefits annually through fewer injuries and illnesses, lower workers’ compensation costs, and increased productivity.

    Over its 50 years, the program surpassed one million visits in 2010; supported recovery efforts following national disasters such as 9/11 and Hurricanes Katrina and Maria; launched digital resources like the Small Business Handbook app to make safety information more accessible; and created the Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program, which honors small businesses with outstanding safety programs. SHARP status includes a deferral from programmed OSHA inspections and marks a company as an industry leader in workplace safety. Currently, SHARP recognizes approximately 1,000 employers for their exceptional safety leadership.

    As it marks this milestone, OSHA is reaffirming its dedication to practical, science-based solutions that protect workers and support business success for the next 50 years and beyond.

    Learn more about OSHA’s On-Site Consultation Program and how it helps small businesses create safer workplaces.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Minority Leader Harold Jones II and Sen. Nabilah Islam Parkes to Hold Press Conference on State of Georgia’s Reproductive Freedom

    Source: US State of Georgia

    ATLANTA (May 28, 2025) — Tomorrow, Minority Leader Sen. Harold Jones II (D–Augusta) and Sen. Nabilah Islam Parkes (D–Duluth) will hold a press conference alongside community advocates to address women’s access to medical care under Georgia’s abortion law.

    EVENT DETAILS:                      

    • Date: Thursday, May 29, 2025
    • Time: 10:00 a.m.
    • Where: Georgia State Capitol, South Steps, 206 Washington St SW, Atlanta, GA, 30334
    • This Event is Open to the Public.

    MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES:

    We kindly request that members of the media confirm their attendance in advance by contacting Evan Bergwall at SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.

    # # # #

    Sen. Harold V. Jones II serves as the Democratic Leader. He represents the 22nd Senate District, which includes portions of Richmond County. He may be reached at 404.656.0036 or via email at harold.jones@senate.ga.gov

    Sen. Nabilah Islam Parkes represents the 7th Senate District including a portion of Gwinnett County. She may be reached at (404) 463-5263 or by email at nabilah.islam@senate.ga.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Armstrong highlights economic, national security benefits of Talon Metals battery minerals facility

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    Gov. Kelly Armstrong today took part in a signing ceremony to celebrate Talon Metals securing a site for its proposed Beulah Minerals Processing Facility on the former Westmoreland Mining coal mine near Beulah. The ceremony marked a milestone in the development of the facility, which will process high-grade nickel and copper ore from the Tamarack mine in Minnesota and other potential sources to produce minerals for batteries.

    “By processing domestically sourced nickel and copper for batteries right here in North Dakota, we will strengthen the U.S. supply chain, reduce our reliance on foreign sources and enhance our economic and national security,” Armstrong said. “We commend Talon for working with Westmoreland to secure a site with existing infrastructure and appreciate the efforts of local leaders, our congressional delegation and the North Dakota Department of Commerce for their instrumental role in the site selection process that landed the project in Beulah.”

    Talon announced plans for the facility in Mercer County in October 2022, supported by a nearly $115 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy. The project represents a total investment of up to $365 million and will create up to 150 jobs for workers to process critical minerals for batteries, in addition to construction jobs, according to Talon.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Sues to Stop Termination, Withholding of National Science Foundation Grants

    Source: US State of California

    OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today filed a lawsuit to stop the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) from: (1) terminating grants for scientific research that seeks to promote and understand diversity in higher education and the workforce, and (2) imposing a 15% cap on indirect cost reimbursements for research projects. From creating AI technology that predicts weather patterns to protect communities, to developing sustainable solutions for environmental and economic challenges, to making power grids more sustainable, NSF-funded research at American universities has ensured the United States’ status as a global leader in scientific innovation. In the complaint, Attorney General Bonta and 15 other attorneys general ask the court to bar NSF from implementing the terminations and cost cap as arbitrary and capricious and contrary to law in violation of the Administrative Procedures Act.

    “President Trump wants to make America’s universities second tier with his backwards efforts to slash research funding that has kept us on the cutting edge of science and innovation,” said Attorney General Bonta. “For more than 50 years, Congress has expressly authorized the National Science Foundation to train up the next generation of talent and invest in the infrastructure necessary to keep our position as a global leader in STEM. With President Trump’s latest round of indiscriminate funding cuts, America is poised to fall behind its competitors at a critical moment in the global technology race. We’re suing to stop him.”

    At the direction of President Trump, NSF is taking aim at the twin pillars sustaining the United States’ STEM preeminence. First, NSF announced a departure from Congress’s longstanding policy to promote a robust STEM workforce that draws in underrepresented populations. Second, NSF announced that it would slash support for the infrastructure necessary for cutting edge American research. These actions violate the law and jeopardize America’s longstanding global leadership in STEM.  

    Since 1980, Congress has maintained that for the United States to maintain its competitive edge, the nation would need to encourage and prepare people from groups traditionally underrepresented in STEM to acquire skills and pursue careers in science and engineering fields.  And it has directed, empowered, and funded NSF to carry this policy out – with significant success. Between 1995 and 2017, the number of women in science and engineering occupations, or with science or engineering degrees, doubled; minorities, meanwhile, went from representing about 15% of those groups to about 35%.  

    To conduct NSF research, universities must maintain and staff substantial infrastructure, such as cutting-edge laboratories, advanced computer systems and networks, appropriate security, and specialized heating or cooling systems. Because the costs associated with such infrastructure often are not attributable solely to one federally sponsored research project, the federal government negotiates indirect cost rates that ensure research grants are sufficient to actually sustain university research efforts. By indiscriminately slashing indirect cost rates, NSF is repeating the unlawful practices of the National Institutes of Health and the Department of Energy, which districts courts have already enjoined.  

    In California, millions of dollars in funding are at risk across the California State University, University of California, and public community college systems. Many innovations — like the internet, GPS, and MRI technology — trace their origins to research initially funded by NSF. Without NSF funding, many California colleges and universities will be forced to substantially reduce or stop altogether potentially groundbreaking programs and research projects.

    Attorney General Bonta joins the attorneys general of Hawaii, New York, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon, Rhode Island, Wisconsin, and Washington in filing the lawsuit. 

    A copy of the complaint is available here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Grand Falls-Windsor — Teenage dirt bike operator lost in wooded area safely located by Grand Falls-Windsor RCMP

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    A teenaged dirt bike operator who was lost in a wooded area near the Exploits River was safely located during the early morning hours today.

    Shortly after 10:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Grand Falls-Windsor RCMP received the report. At approximately 7:30 p.m., the boy, who was traveling alone on his dirt bike, contacted family via his cell phone and indicated that he had ran out of gas and was lost on a woods road near Exploit’s River. The boy also indicated that his cell phone battery was low.

    Through further investigation, police determined an approximate location of the missing youth and engaged Exploits Search and Rescue (SAR) to assist with a search. At approximately 3:30 a.m., prior to the arrival of SAR, Grand Falls-Windsor RCMP located the youth and his dirt bike on a woods road near Sandy Lake. The youth reported being cold but was otherwise in good health. He was transported out of the wooded area by police and safely reunited with his family.

    With increased off-road vehicle use anticipated over the summer months, RCMP NL reminds users to be prepared and wear the gear. It is recommended to travel with extra clothing, food, a communication device and fire making supplies. Additionally, sharing your intended travel plans and expected departure and return times with others is strongly advisable. The use of helmets and seatbelts where available is mandatory for those traveling on all off-road vehicles.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Orange County felon sentenced to federal prison for firearms violation

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    BEAUMONT, Texas –An Orange, Texas man has been sentenced for illegally possessing a firearm in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Abe McGlothin, Jr.

    John Marion LeBlanc, 45, pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and was sentenced to 162 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Marcia A. Crone on May 27, 2025.

    According to information presented in court, on October 29, 2023, law enforcement responded to the Orange Boat Ramp on Pier Road in Orange in reference to a large disturbance with shots fired. Upon arrival, officers could see a large crowd with numerous vehicles in the boat ramp parking lot.  As officers approached the scene, they heard several gunshots and observed muzzle flashes. One person had been shot in the arm.  Video surveillance footage shows LeBlanc arrive at the boat ramp parking lot and fire a pistol in the crowd.  Other individuals also fired shots, and as police arrived on scene, video footage shows LeBlanc throwing a firearm in the grass where it was later recovered.

    Further investigation revealed LeBlanc has previously been convicted of eight felony convictions, including two prior federal drug trafficking convictions.  Federal law prohibits convicted felons from owning or possessing firearms or ammunition.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    This case was investigated by the Orange Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matt Quinn.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Tradesk Securities Accelerates Its Mission to Empower a New Generation of Investors

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Short Hills, NJ, May 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Tradesk Securities, Inc., (“Tradesk” and/or “Tradesk Securities”) a modern trading platform and registered broker-dealer, today announced the next phase of its growth as it continues building the infrastructure and tools to empower a new generation of investors. With an expanding set of intelligent features and industry-grade capabilities, Tradesk is bridging the gap between everyday users and the financial strategies traditionally reserved for professionals. Learn more at www.tradesk.co.

    Amid growing interest in personal investing and increasing market complexity, Tradesk is gaining momentum by offering a simple, transparent platform that puts the power of investing into the hands of individuals, without jargon or intimidation. Tradesk offers a mobile-first investing experience designed to make building wealth simple.

    Building on its mission, Tradesk recently launched Recurring Investments, providing users with an easy way to automate their investing strategies and build themed portfolios consistently over time. Looking ahead, the company is preparing to introduce a suite of AI-powered investing features designed to deliver smarter insights and personalized portfolio guidance, designed to help users make more informed decisions in real time.

    Tradesk also continues to expand opportunities for new users, offering limited-time incentives for new account holders. Details are available at www.tradesk.co/newcustomer . In addition, to make advanced strategies more accessible, Tradesk is currently offering special incentives for options trading. Full details can be found at www.tradesk.co/optionspromotion. 

    “We founded Tradesk to break down the barriers that have historically excluded so many people from investing,” said Eric Chu, CEO of Tradesk Securities. “As volatility grows and investing becomes more complex, users need tools that are not only powerful — but also easy to use, educational, and aligned with their goals.”

    Since its launch, Tradesk has seen strong momentum, with a growing user base and an expanding feature set designed to support investors at every stage of their journey. With continued innovation and a focus on empowering users, Tradesk is setting the foundation for long-term impact in the financial services industry. As a registered U.S. broker-dealer, Tradesk brings institutional-grade infrastructure to the retail experience — and is laying the foundation to support broader industry partnerships, including fintech integrations and financial advisory/IPO tools.

    About Tradesk Securities
    Tradesk Securities is an innovative trading and investing platform designed to empower individuals to take control of their financial futures. User can create trading strategies with stocks, ETFs, options, and fractional shares. Built for long—term investors and active traders alike, Tradesk combines intuitive design, accessible education, and AI-driven insights to help users make smarter decisions, faster. With features like automated investing, recurring strategies, and clear, upfront pricing, Tradesk is making financial markets more transparent, inclusive, and actionable.

    Learn more at www.tradesk.co

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Palestine/Israel: ‘Two-State Solution on life support’- UN Special Coordinator Media Stakeout

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Comments to the media by Sigrid Kaag, United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process Ad Interim, on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=viR_-O3tnSA

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Israel on the attack in DC & latest developments in the region – Security Council Media Stakeout

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Comments to the media by Danny Danon, Permanent Representative of Israel to the United Nations, on the attack in DC & latest developments in the region.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-AJvDlnqCX0

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: 101 Years of Service – Happy Birthday U.S. Border Patrol | CBP

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    For 101 years, the United States Border Patrol has protected America —through every shift, every threat, and every chapter of modern history. From the earliest horseback patrols to today’s multi-domain operations, the men and women of U.S. Border Patrol have answered the call with grit, skill, and a steadfast commitment to the mission.

    Instagram ➤ https://instagram.com/CBPgov
    Facebook ➤ https://facebook.com/CBPgov
    Twitter ➤ https://twitter.com/CBP
    Official Website ➤ https://www.cbp.gov

    #cbp
    #borderpatrol
    #service
    #birthday
    #lawenforcement

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0q121wWz9jg

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: How Do We Do Research in Zero Gravity? We Asked a NASA Expert

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    When it comes to experiments in space, astronauts on the International Space Station face challenges you won’t find on Earth: bubbles don’t rise, things float away and many Earth-based lab tools don’t always work the same way. So science in space needs to me reimagined from the ground up.

    A NASA scientist explains how we study life, chemistry and physics in orbit.

    Learn more about science on the ISS: https://www.nasa.gov/missions/station/iss-research/station-science-101-research-in-microgravity-higher-faster-longer/

    Download this video at: https://images.nasa.gov/details/How%20Do%20We%20Do%20Research%20in%20Zero%20Gravity

    Producers: Scott Bednar, Pedro Cota, Jessie Wilde
    Editor: James Lucas

    Credit: NASA

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EU8dbEH25ak

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Glad You Asked: Veterans Benefits Banking Program – A Simple Step to Secure Your Benefits Safely

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    In episode 4, Deputy Secretary of Veterans Affairs, the Honorable Paul R. Lawrence, Ph.D., breaks down the Veterans Benefits Banking Program – what it is, how to apply, and who’s eligible. For more information, call 800-827-1000.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ILRjQX4RW7A

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Live Travel Q&A – Streamlining Your Travel Process – Trusted Traveler Programs | CBP

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) hosts a live discussion and update about the various travel programs available to incoming and outgoing travelers.

    The Trusted Traveler Programs (TTPs) are expedited security screening and entry programs offered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for pre-approved, low-risk travelers. These programs, including TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, NEXUS, and SENTRI, aim to streamline the travel process, improve security, and facilitate legitimate trade and travel.

    For more information ➤ https://ttp.dhs.gov/

    Instagram ➤ https://instagram.com/CBPgov
    Facebook ➤ https://facebook.com/CBPgov
    Twitter ➤ https://twitter.com/CBP
    Official Website ➤ https://www.cbp.gov

    #cbp
    #travel
    #customs
    #airport
    #security

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Off1jXVbOEY

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FACT: One, Big, Beautiful Bill Cuts Spending, Fuels Growth

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Whitehouse
    President Donald J. Trump’s One, Big, Beautiful Bill is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to cut spending, fuel growth, and level the fiscal footing of the American economy.
    Stephen Miller, White House Deputy Chief of Staff, explains the bill’s historic nature:
    “The Big Beautiful Bill is NOT an annual budget bill and does not fund the departments of government. It does not finance our agencies or federal programs. Instead, it includes the single largest welfare reform in American history. Along with the largest tax cut and reform in American history. The most aggressive energy exploration in American history. And the strongest border bill in American history. All while reducing the deficit.”
    Miller goes on to explain how the legislation also reduces the deficit:
    “The bill saves more than 1.6 TRILLION in mandatory spending, including the largest-ever welfare reform. A remarkable achievement. I’ve also seen claims the bill increases the deficit. This lie is based on a CBO accounting gimmick. Income tax rates from the 2017 tax cut are set to expire in September. They were always planned to be permanent. CBO says maintaining *current* rates adds to the deficit, but by definition leaving these income tax rates unchanged cannot add one penny to the deficit. The bill’s spending cuts REDUCE the deficit against the current law baseline, which is the only correct baseline to use.”
    Meanwhile, Peter Navarro, Senior Counselor for Trade and Manufacturing, explains why so-called “forecasts” fail to account for the bill’s contributions to economic growth and debt reduction:
    “In making its projections, the CBO [Congressional Budget Office] has refused to account for — or ‘score’ as they say in CBO lingo — any of the new revenues from the Trump reciprocal tariffs.
    Remember here a key goal of Trump’s fair-trade policies is to shift the U.S. tax base from one primarily reliant on income taxes to one that, with the vision of the new External Revenue Service, is also supported by tariff revenues. Consider, then, the impacts on the CBO’s projected revenue shortfall of just the modest 10 percent global baseline tariff Trump recently put into effect.
    Such a tariff, depending on consumer responses (as measured by demand elasticities) and enforcement efficacy (i.e., how much cheating occurs), should generate between $2.3 trillion and $3.3 trillion in additional revenue over the ten-year forecast period. When this revenue is layered onto the enhanced dynamic growth scenario, the projected budget impact from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act ranges from a modest $300 billion increase in the debt under the 2.2 percent growth assumption to as much as a $2 trillion surplus under the 2.7 percent growth assumption.”

    MIL OSI USA News –