Source: United States Department of Defense (video statements)
As temperatures heat up and outdoor activities increase, please remember to wear a life jacket when in, on, or near open water. Life is an adventure, enjoy it…safely!
#military #usa #watersafety
For more on the Department of Defense, visit: http://www.defense.gov
Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
SAN ANTONIO – Acting United States Attorney Margaret Leachman for the Western District of Texas announced today, that federal prosecutors in the district filed 334 new immigration and immigration-related criminal cases from May 16 through May 22.
Among the new cases, Salvadoran felon Erick Douglas Serrano-Aleman was arrested by Van Horn Border Patrol agents for being an illegal alien present in the U.S. A criminal complaint indicates Serrano-Aleman was previously convicted of transporting and selling a controlled substance as well as accessory. In 2004, he was convicted for illegal re-entry in Nogales, Arizona. Serrano-Aleman has been deported twice and allegedly claims to be a member of the Sureño 13 gang.
In El Paso, multiple alleged human smugglers were arrested, including U.S. citizen Ernesto Covarrubias and Tanya Joselyn De La Paz-Nunez, a Mexican national in possession of a legal B1/B2 Visa Border Crossing Card. Covarrubias, as the vehicle driver, and De La Paz-Nunez allegedly picked up five illegal aliens inside a pecan orchard near the Tornillo Port of Entry, intending to transport them to a stash house.
U.S. citizen Gabriela Ivon Trejo-Gonzalez was arrested after U.S. Border Patrol agents allegedly observed six individuals crawl through a breach in the border fence near the Paso Del Norte Port of Entry and board Trejo-Gonzalez’s vehicle. The defendant allegedly drove away at a high rate of speed and continued in an attempt to evade law enforcement before becoming inoperable. Trejo-Gonzalez allegedly claimed she would be paid $500 per alien. She was convicted for alien smuggling in New Mexico in June 2023 and probation violation in October 2023.
Juan Pedro Carmona-Cerritos, a Mexican felon, was arrested in El Paso and charged with illegal re-entry. Carmona-Cerritos was last removed from the U.S. in April 2009. He was previously convicted of child abuse in 2004 and second degree reckless homicide in 2005 in Waukesha, Wisconsin, for which he was sentenced to a total of approximately three years in prison. Guatemalan national Ramon Cortes-Velasquez was also arrested for illegal re-entry in El Paso, having been convicted of assault causing bodily injury to a family member in February and removed from the U.S. to Guatemala in March.
Mexican nationals Jose Rolando Arenas-Aleman and J Angel Nava-Sanchez were arrested near Del Rio. According to court documents, Arenas-Aleman was arrested May 14 by U.S. Border Patrol agents for being an illegal alien present in the United States. He had previously been removed to Mexico for the second time through Laredo on Sept. 6, 2024 following his second conviction for Driving While Intoxicated. Nava-Sanchez was arrested May 15 after allegedly crossing the Rio Grande River near Del Rio. Nava-Sanchez was convicted twice in Tarrant County. He was found sentenced to 45 days in jail for a DWI in July 2022 and 29 days in jail in August 2018, for assault causing bodily injury to a family member.
A U.S. citizen was arrested May 19 during a traffic stop on Highway 85 near Dilley. A criminal complaint alleges that Alex Guadalupe Nieto was the driver of a vehicle transporting six illegal aliens. The complaint alleges that Nieto stated he and another individual drove from Houston, picking up the six illegal aliens on the side of the road, and that he had expected to be paid $500.00 to transport the aliens.
In Austin, Mexican national Juan Robledo-Trevino aka Octavio Garcia-Sanchez was taken into federal custody by Immigration and Customs Enforcement after being arrested and sentenced to 10 days in the Travis County Jail for failure to identify. Robledo-Trevino has two prior convictions for illegal re-entry, and four previous DWI convictions. He’s been removed from the U.S. to Mexico four times, most recently in November 2016, and voluntarily returned to Mexico twice.
Mexican national Jose Hernandez-Martinez was taken into ICE custody in Austin where he had been arrested for his second DWI and spent 20 days in the Travis County Jail. Hernandez-Martinez has a prior illegal entry conviction along with convictions for theft and assault causing bodily injury to a family member. He voluntarily returned to Mexico in 2006, and has been twice removed from the U.S.
Edgar Aguilar-Mejia, a Guatemalan national, was also taken into ICE custody in Austin. Aguilar-Mejia was convicted twice in 2023 for illegal re-entry and has been removed from the U.S. three times before, as recent as April 2024.
These cases were referred or supported by federal law enforcement partners, including Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations (ICE ERO), U.S. Border Patrol, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), with additional assistance from state and local law enforcement partners.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Texas comprises 68 counties located in the central and western areas of Texas, encompasses nearly 93,000 square miles and an estimated population of 7.6 million people. The district includes three of the five largest cities in Texas—San Antonio, Austin and El Paso—and shares 660 miles of common border with the Republic of Mexico.
These cases are 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).
Indictments and criminal complaints are merely allegations and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Source: US State of Colorado
GREENWOOD VILLAGE — Today, Lt. Governor Dianne Primavera joined students, educators, lawmakers, and over 400 volunteers at PeriodPalooza, a high-energy community event organized by the nonprofit Justice Necessary to help Coloradans access period products.
This event follows the passage of House Bill 24-1164 — a landmark law signed by Governor Polis requires Colorado schools to provide free menstrual hygiene products in at least 25% of restrooms by June 2025 and 50% by June 2026. PeriodPalooza marked the culmination of a statewide initiative to assemble and distribute one million organic period products to students across Colorado.
Lt. Governor Primavera delivered remarks and read a proclamation recognizing Menstrual Hygiene Day alongside Attorney General Phil Weiser, Secretary of State Jenna Griswold, and Denver Health CEO and former Lt. Governor Donna Lynne.
“Access to period products should never be a barrier to education or health,” said Lt. Governor and Director of the Office of Saving People Money on Health Care, Dianne Primavera. “From ending the tampon tax to advancing legislation that ensures menstrual dignity in our schools, we’re working to make basic hygiene essentials more affordable, more equitable, and more accessible to all Coloradans.”
The event also recognized the work of Justice Necessary, founded by Diane Cushman Neal.
“When 80% of Colorado students who experience periods miss class due to a lack of access to period products, we partnered with legislators and stakeholders to pass HB24-1164. But passing a law isn’t enough. Real change comes from putting policy into practice,” said Diane Cushman Neal, Founder and President of Justice Necessary. “We launched PeriodPalooza to bring communities and schools together to pack and distribute over 2.5 million period products. Our goal is to raise awareness about the barriers students face and remind us all that access to period products just is necessary.”
To support the rollout of HB24-1164, Justice Necessary launched a Menstrual Access Grant delivering over 2.5 million organic period products and 1,371 dispensers to more than 460 Colorado schools, along with full installation support.
This work builds on Colorado’s broader efforts to reduce hygiene poverty and promote health equity. In 2022, under the leadership of Governor Polis and Lt. Governor Primavera, Colorado became one of the first states to eliminate the state sales and use tax on both diapers and menstrual products.
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Source: US State of Colorado
DENVER – Today, Governor Polis attended a preschool graduation at Stevens Elementary School to celebrate the successful second year of the Colorado Universal Preschool Program, which is strengthening early childhood education and saving Colorado families more than $6,100 every year. The Governor also signed new laws to fully fund Colorado schools, strengthen our K-12 accountability system, and foster a strong workforce by creating more avenues for Coloradans to gain relevant skills that will help them succeed in the workforce.
“Congratulations, preschool class of 2025! I am so excited to be joining in on the celebrations and highlighting the second consecutive year of the successful Universal Preschool Program. Since day one, it has been my goal to expand access to early childhood education, helping students and families to find the best fit for their child, and ensuring that our early learners are ready for the next step in their academic journey,” said Governor Polis.
Colorado’s Universal Preschool Program (UPK) is seeing record enrollment numbers in its second year, serving more than 50,000 students and saving families an average $6,100 a year.
Later in the morning, Governor Polis signed HB25-1320 – School Finance Act, sponsored by Representatives McCluskie and Lukens, and Senators Lundeen and Bridges, fully funding K-12 education under Amendment 23, to support students and educators.
“With this bill, Colorado has made good on our promise to fully fund K-12 education and meet students where they are and bolster educational outcomes across our state. I appreciate the sponsors of this bill for working to increase school funding and turning on the new, student-focused school finance formula in a sustainable way,” said Governor Polis
Governor Polis additionally signed:
“Every student should have the opportunity to succeed in the classroom, and today is another step forward in making sure that students, regardless of learning ability, have the correct resources to reach their fullest potential. Thank you to the sponsors for working diligently to ensure all Colorado students and educators have the tools to make a difference,” said Governor Polis.
Governor Polis also signed HB25-1192 – Financial Literacy Graduation Requirement, sponsored by Representatives Anthony Hartsook and Jennifer Bacon, and Senators Jeff Bridges and Lisa Frizell.
“Increasing financial literacy helps young adults gain financial knowledge and make informed decisions about their personal finances. Thank you to the sponsors for recognizing the importance of education around money management and financial planning for young adults,” said Governor Polis.
Governor Polis concluded the day by signing bills into law, fostering a strong workforce by creating more avenues for Colordans to gain relevant skills that will help them succeed in the workforce.
“Colorado is a national leader in connecting Coloradans to the skills needed to fill in-demand jobs, earn a good wage, and drive our state’s economic success. These laws build upon our work to create a more robust workforce in Colorado and help Coloradans save and plan for retirement,” said Governor Polis.
Earlier this week, Governor Polis signed an Executive Order building on Colorado’s success in strengthening the workforce by directing Colorado’s state agencies, including the Department of Education, to work together to help more post-high school learners access needed credentials.
As Chair of the National Governors Association, Governor Polis launched Let’s Get Ready, a yearlong initiative designed to support the nation’s Governors in driving innovative education policies. Let’s Get Ready aims to help Governors form policies that better evaluate outcomes for state investments in education and improve outcomes for learners at all stages of their education journey. The initiative also focuses on the ways states can meet the future needs of the workforce by preparing students for success in and outside of the classroom.
Governor Polis also signed HB25-1309 – Protect Access to Gender-Affirming Health Care, sponsored by Representatives Brown and Titone, and Senators Cutter and Gonzales.
“Building a Colorado for All means ensuring that everyone can thrive no matter who you are or how you identify. This legislation takes another step toward making this vision a reality for everyone,” said Governor Jared Polis.
The Governor signed the following bills administratively:
The Governor also vetoed the following bills:
Source:
Congressman Russell Fry (SC-07) Introduces the Targeting Child Predators Act
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Russell Fry (SC-07) reintroduced the Targeting Child Predators Act, a critical piece of legislation aimed at strengthening law enforcement’s ability to investigate and prosecute online child exploitation.
Under current law, when officials identify a suspected child predator through an IP address, they can issue a subpoena to the Internet Service Provider (ISP) to obtain the name and account information tied to that address. While ISPs typically comply with these subpoenas, they sometimes alert the targeted user, who, in these cases, are suspected child predators.
This early notification can have devastating consequences and allow suspects to tamper with evidence, flee prosecution, intimidate witnesses, and jeopardize investigations before charges can be filed.
The Targeting Child Predators Act would give law enforcement the ability to request a temporary nondisclosure order that is valid for up to 180 days, preventing ISPs from alerting suspects while investigators build their case.
This specific authority would apply only in cases of suspected child exploitation. In addition, law enforcement must certify that, if the Internet Service Provider disclosed the information request to the targeted suspect, that disclosure could enable suspects and result in:
Endangering the life or physical safety of an individual
Flight from prosecution
Destruction of or tampering with evidence
Intimidation of potential witnesses or
Seriously jeopardizing an investigation
The bill does not expand what type of evidence law enforcement can collect and ensures all subpoenas remain subject to judicial review.
“We must ensure that child predators are brought to justice, and not tipped off by the systems that are meant to hold them accountable,” said Congressman Fry. “The Targeting Child Predators Act strikes a balance between protecting due process and giving law enforcement the tools they need to stop online exploitation before it’s too late. This legislation is a vital step toward protecting our children and ensuring investigators have the ability to act swiftly and effectively.”
The Targeting Child Predators Act is supported by South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson, Child Rescue Coalition, RAVEN, Major County Sheriffs of America, and the National Fraternal Order of Police.
“The Targeting Child Predators Act gives law enforcement additional tools to ensure investigations can move swiftly and securely without giving child predators an opportunity to delete valuable evidence,” said South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson. “I support this legislation and commend Congressman Fry for his leadership in standing up for the safety of our children.”
“The TCPA will streamline data access for law enforcement in child exploitation cases, without compromising their investigations, or repeatedly burdening the Judiciary, enabling quicker investigations to protect and rescue victims from online predators,” said the Child Rescue Coalition.
“This bill is a commonsense step to help law enforcement move faster in child exploitation investigations,” said RAVEN Director of Legislative Affairs Jennifer Dunton. “By removing the extra step of seeking a court order just to delay user notification, we’re eliminating a procedural bottleneck that can cost investigators critical time. When children’s safety is on the line, we need to prioritize speed, discretion, and effectiveness — this bill does exactly that.”
“MCSA commends Congressman Fry for introducing the Targeting Child Predators Act,” said Major County Sheriffs of America Executive Director Megan Noland. “If those who target and exploit children are tipped off when a criminal investigation is underway, they can destroy evidence and complicate efforts to bring them to justice. This bill helps minimize that risk and improves our ability to hold offenders accountable. We encourage Congress to act on this important legislation.”
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.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Young Kim (CA-39)
Washington, DC – This week, the Former Members of Congress (FMC) announced U.S. Representative Young Kim (CA-40) as a recipient of the 2025 FMC Statesmanship Awards for her outstanding service to our nation and commitment to reaching across the aisle.
For 28 years, FMC has awarded one Representative and one Senator from each party with a Statesmanship Award. Fellow 2025 FMC Statesmanship Award recipients include Rep. Ed Case (HI-01) and Sens. Todd Young (R-IN) and Cory Booker (D-NJ).
“While I remain firm in my principles, I believe bipartisanship drives results and is needed now more than ever to deliver solutions for complex challenges,” said Congresswoman Kim. “I thank FMC for the recognition and for their work to foster opportunities for collaboration here at home and around the world.”
“It’s an honor to be able to recognize Congresswoman Young Kim as our 2025 Republican House Statesmanship Award Honoree. FMC has worked with Rep. Kim for nearly four years now as Co-Chair of our Congressional Study Group on Korea, and we have seen firsthand her commitment putting aside partisan politics in order to produce common sense legislation for her constituents and American citizens. From her time as a Congressional staffer, to being Chair of the House Subcommittee on East Asia and the Pacific, Rep. Kim has been a leader in foreign policy and bipartisanship, and we’re grateful for her service,” Pete Weichlein, CEO, Former Members of Congress.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-Florida 20th district))
WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Reps. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), David Valado (CA-22), Vince Fong (CA-20), and Jim Costa (CA-21) introduced the Farm to Market Road Improvement Act. This bipartisan bill would make additional federal resources available to help repair and maintain the infrastructure that keeps America’s food supply chain moving.
“Farmers in the Glades rely on safe, drivable roads that allow them to feed families across both our state and nation,” said Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick. “I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan piece of legislation to protect our agricultural backbone, repair local infrastructure, and strengthen our supply chains.”
“The Central Valley is the backbone of our nation’s food supply, but after years of wear and tear from heavy trucks, many of our rural roads are in desperate need of repair,” said Congressman Valadao. “This bipartisan bill gives our communities access to the federal resources needed to repair and strengthen critical infrastructure, and I’m proud to lead this effort to support our farmers, grow our economy, and keep America’s food supply chain moving.”
“My district is one of the top agricultural producing regions in the nation, and I’m proud to partner with Congressman Valadao to create another resource to improve roadways in the Central Valley,” said Congressman Fong. “By investing in our rural infrastructure we’re supporting the hardworking farmers who feed America and strengthening the supply chain that keeps our economy moving.”
“Our farmers grow the food that feeds the nation, but they can’t do it without reliable roads to get their goods to market. The Farm to Market Roads Improvement Act ensures that rural communities like those in the San Joaquin Valley aren’t left behind,” said Congressman Costa. “By setting aside dedicated funding for farm-to-market road projects, we’re investing in the backbone of America’s agricultural economy and strengthening our rural infrastructure.”
“Palm Beach County, Florida supports resources to agricultural and rural communities to assist in repairing Farm to Market roads as efficiently as possible, so that agricultural products can be transported safely and quickly from farms to consumers,” said Maria G. Marino, Mayor, Palm Beach County, FL. “We support the legislative efforts of Reps. Valadao, Cherfilus-McCormick, Fong and Costa to define Farm-to-Market Roads in eligible counties, ensuring that 10% of the Rural Transportation Grant Program is directed to these crucial agricultural roadways.”
“Reps. Valadao, Cherfilus-McCormick, Fong, and Costa’s legislation directs more federal transportation funding to communities like Tulare County,” said Tulare County Association of Governments Chairman Rudy Mendoza. “Our roads are used not only by residents traveling to work, but by agricultural goods on their way to markets across the world. This bill recognizes the national economic impact of our region and we appreciate our Congressional delegation’s continued support.”
“Our local economy depends on safe, reliable infrastructure to move agricultural goods efficiently from the fields to the market,” said Kings County Supervisor Doug Verboon. “Farm-to-market roads are vital for connecting growers to processors, distributors, and markets across the region. The Farm to Market Road Improvement Act recognizes the unique transportation needs of rural farming communities and delivers the kind of targeted federal investment needed to maintain and modernize these critical routes.”
“We welcome Rep. Valadao’s attention on this issue, particularly at a time when investments in our nation’s rural infrastructure continues to lag behind our more urban areas,” said Shannon Douglass, President, California Farm Bureau. “As we like to say—food security is national security—and this legislation would help provide a much-needed boost towards protecting our critical food supply chains.”
Read the full bill here.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Lauren Boebert (Colorado, 3)
EATON, CO– Staff from Congresswoman Lauren Boebert’s (CO-04) office will be holding Mobile Office Hours in June across the district to connect with constituents within their communities. In addition to the Congresswoman’s congressional offices in Eaton and Lone Tree, the Mobile Office Hours aim to provide services to constituents who need in-person guidance.
“Our Congressional Mobile Office Hours provide an opportunity for constituents from across the 4th District to get the assistance they need from our staffers who can help them in a variety of ways,” stated Congresswoman Boebert. “Meeting Coloradans where they are is a critical part of the work our office does, and I know our Mobile Office Hours will be a huge help to constituents of all backgrounds and locations.”
Staff from Congresswoman Boebert’s office will be available to help constituents who aren’t getting answers from federal agencies, like veterans seeking to get the care they earned from the VA, travelers that need expedited assistance to receive a passport on short notice, taxpayers being harassed by the IRS, and senior citizens having issues with the Social Security Administration or Medicare. Additionally, constituents are invited to come to the office hours to express their viewpoints on legislative issues or request special Congressional Commendations from the Congresswoman recognizing outstanding public achievements.
Since the beginning of her tenure as Representative for the 4th Congressional District on January 3rd, 2025, Congresswoman Boebert’s office has returned $2,738,423.80 to constituents.
Mobile Office Hours will be available at the following times and locations:
THURSDAY, JUNE 5, 2025
Elbert County Mobile Office Hours
Agate Fire Protection District, Meeting Room
40160 County Road 153
Agate, CO
12:30-1:30pm
Lincoln County Mobile Office Hours
Flagler Town Hall, Library Meeting Room
311 Main Street
Flagler, CO
3:00-4:00pm
Washington County Mobile Office Hours
Otis Fire Department
409 E 5th Ave
Otis, Co
10:00-11:00am
Logan County Mobile Office Hours
Fleming Community Center
117 N. Logan Ave
Fleming, CO
2:00-3:00pm
THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025
Cheyenne County Mobile Office Hours
Town Hall, Community Building
301 Main Street
Kit Carson, CO
10:30am-12:00pm
TUESDAY, JUNE 17, 2025
Yuma County Mobile Office Hours
Grassroots Community Center
6671 US HWY 36
Joes, CO
10:00-11:00am
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 18, 2025
Crowley County Mobile Office Hours
401 Warner Street
Olney Springs, CO
11:30am-1:00pm
East Weld County Mobile Office Hours
Hudson Public Library
100 S. Beech St.
4:00-5:00pm
TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2025
Adams County Mobile Office Hours
Bennett Town Hall
207 Muegge Way
3:30-4:30pm
Source: Government of Canada regional news
The new hospital in Fort St. James is now called Nats’oojeh [Nat-Soo-Jay] Hospital and Health Centre, reflecting the Dakelh First Nations heritage.
The name was chosen in consultation with the guidance of Elders and language experts from the Nak’azdli, Binche, Tl’azt’en, Yekooche and Takla First Nations. Nats’oojeh means “everyone healing” in the Dakelh language. The larger meaning is healing through medicine, holistic care, looking after loved ones and helping each other.
Dakelh First Nations were engaged throughout the design process to help ensure the hospital is welcoming and reflective of their cultures and health practices. This includes a spiritual space, smudging area, healing garden, traditional plants and medicines. The building has theme and design elements such as nature and the changing seasons, Indigenous art, and signage in Dakelh, including written words and syllabics.
“Nats’oojeh Hospital and Health Centre is more than just a building, it’s a place where community, culture and care come together under one roof,” said Josie Osborne, Minister of Health. “I’m grateful to the Elders and experts who have guided the process of selecting a name for this facility that reflects the values of the community it serves.”
The new facility, which opened Jan. 14, 2025, is three times the size of the previous hospital. It has 27 beds, including 18 long-term-care and nine acute-care beds, and an expanded emergency department with two treatment rooms, a trauma bay and an ambulance bay. Additionally, there is a bigger laboratory and diagnostic imaging spaces.
“The Nats’oojeh Hospital and Health Centre represents a strong foundation for health and healing in Fort St. James and surrounding communities,” said Bowinn Ma, Minister of Infrastructure. “Its new name, chosen in consultation with local First Nations, reflects a deep spirit of collaboration and care — bringing together traditional knowledge, cultural respect and modern infrastructure to support a healthier future for everyone.”
The previous hospital opened in 1972 and was outdated in terms of space, size, functionality and technology. It had 12 beds and no decontamination room or dedicated area to receive, assess or triage patients in the emergency department. The facility also had only two treatment bays, one trauma room and no ambulance bay.
“Nats’oojeh Hospital and Health Centre is a powerful expression of what’s possible when we work together with Indigenous partners. This facility is more than a new hospital; it’s a place of healing, connection and cultural safety,” said Colleen Nyce, chair, Northern Health. “The name Nats’oojeh reflects the spirit of collaboration and respect that guided this project from the beginning, and we are honoured to support care that is rooted in community, tradition and wellness.”
The total capital cost of the project is $158.3 million, including $139.9 million funded by the Province through Northern Health and an $18.4-million contribution from the Stuart-Nechako Regional Hospital District.
“This major investment reflects a strong commitment to rural health care. The new hospital and health centre will help attract and retain essential medical staff, improve access to quality care, and reduce the need for travel,” said Judy Greenaway, chair, Stuart-Nechako Regional Hospital District. “It’s rewarding to see years of advocacy and planning realized in this beautiful facility. We’re grateful to the Province of B.C. and Northern Health for their support.”
Demolition of the old hospital began in March 2025.
Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)
Minister Horner will meet with groups of investors, government officials and industry in Germany, Czechia, Poland, the United Kingdom and Ireland. The meetings are an opportunity to market Alberta bonds to new global investors and to strengthen ties with those already familiar with Alberta. Minister Horner will speak to Alberta’s current fiscal plan, as well as market the province’s investment opportunities and economic strengths.
“As we continue to deal with uncertainty in our trade relations, it’s more important than ever to strengthen economic ties with other markets around the world. I’m looking forward to promoting Alberta’s successes and opportunities, and marketing our province as a key destination to do business.”
Alberta is the best place to invest as it offers reliable access to global markets, low taxes, abundant resources and a skilled, growing workforce – all backed by a stable, pro-business government.
Minister Horner will be travelling with one government staff member. Mission expenses will be posted on the travel and expense disclosure page.
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Source: New South Wales Community and Justice
Drug-affected drivers detected during traffic operation on Midlands Highway
Saturday, 24 May 2025 – 8:15 am.
Tasmania Police are reminding motorists about the dangers of drug driving after several concerning detections during a traffic operation on the Midlands Highway yesterday afternoon (23 May).
Officers from Road Policing Services conducted the operation south of Campbell Town, supported by the Dog Handler Unit.
During the operation, the police drug detection dog gave positive indications to several vehicles leading to the discovery of a quantity of methamphetamine.
The occupants were arrested and charged with trafficking a controlled substance.
Other results from the operation included:
3 x positive results for illicit drugs,
1 x driving whilst disqualified.
Detective Inspector Troy Morrisby said it is disappointing the number of drug-affected drivers on a major road such as the Midlands Highway, where speed limits reach up to 110 km/h.
“Alcohol and drugs remain one of the Fatal Five contributing factors to serious and fatal crashes on Tasmanian roads,” he said.
“Operations like this are critical to removing dangerous drivers from our roads, and it is especially concerning that people are choosing to drive under the influence on high-speed highways, putting themselves and other road users at serious risk.”
“We will continue to conduct high-visibility traffic operations across the state to deter unsafe driving and keep the community safe.”
Source: United States Navy
PORTSMOUTH, Va. – Recognizing a hazard that needs to be monitored is nothing new to those in the public health field because that’s what they do–identify, assess and control risks to protect population health, from infectious diseases and environmental exposures to occupational threats. The goal? To make operations safer, smarter, and to preserve readiness.
Source: US State of North Carolina
Headline: Governor Stein Honors Memorial Day
Governor Stein Honors Memorial Day
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Today Governor Josh Stein released the following statement in commemoration of Memorial Day:
“Throughout our nation’s history, North Carolinians have answered the call to serve our country and protect our freedoms, and this weekend we honor those who paid the ultimate price in that service. Anna’s and my heart are with all the North Carolinians who are mourning their loved ones. Let us honor their legacy by preserving their memories, celebrating their bravery, and nourishing our democracy.”
All U.S. and North Carolina flags will be lowered to half staff from sunrise until noon on Monday, May 26th.
Source: US State of California
New Trump employment classification would strip civil-service protections from tens of thousands of nonpartisan federal employees and risk eroding the effectiveness of the federal government
OAKLAND — California Attorney General Rob Bonta today joined a coalition of 19 attorneys general in submitting a comment letter that opposes the Office of Personnel Management’s proposed rule to create a new employment classification in the federal civil service called “Schedule Policy/Career.” If implemented, this classification, a reinstatement of the previously failed “Schedule F,” would strip critical workplace protections from tens of thousands of career federal employees, allowing the Trump Administration to fire them for “subverting Presidential directives” or purely political or reasons unrelated to their job performance.
“The Trump Administration is looking to trample on workers’ rights by reinstating the Schedule F classification,” said Attorney General Bonta. “This would be a direct assault on the integrity of our federal workforce by threatening to replace experienced, nonpartisan professionals with political loyalists. This change would not only undermine the trust and stability of our strong federal workforce comprised of subject matter experts, it would also break the very foundation of a government that serves all Americans, not just those who implement President’ Trump’s agenda.”
Under the current federal civil service system, approximately 2 million federal employees serve in the “competitive service,” meaning they are hired through a merit-based process and protected by civil-service laws that guard against arbitrary dismissal or political interference. These federal employees are nonpartisan professionals hired for their expertise and expected to carry out the laws passed by Congress regardless of political shifts.
The new Schedule Policy/Career classification that attempts to reprise the previously proposed Schedule F would reclassify a broad range of policy-related civil servants—such as analysts, attorneys, scientists, and regulators — into an at-will employment status. Unlike traditional Schedule C appointees who change with each new presidential administration, Schedule Policy/Career would apply to nonpartisan federal career staff not normally subject to such turnover. This reclassification would remove long-standing due process protections that guard the apolitical nature of the federal workforce and open these employees up to being fired on political grounds.
As of March 2024, there were only roughly 1,600 Schedule C employees across the entire federal government, which illustrates just how narrow Congress intended the exemptions from merit-based employment to be. When the first Trump Administration attempted to implement Schedule F, one estimate projected it would reclassify as many as 50,000 federal employees.
In the comment letter, the attorneys general argue that the Trump Administration’s proposed rule is unlawful, unconstitutional, and harmful to states. Schedule Policy/Career violates the clear intent of the Civil Service Reform Act of 1978, which Congress passed to protect federal employees from arbitrary dismissal and ensure merit-based hiring. It also raises due process concerns under the Fifth Amendment by retroactively stripping career civil servants of vested employment rights. From a policy standpoint, the rule would politicize the federal workforce, chill the independence of career professionals, make it more difficult to retain experienced employees, and open the door to partisan retaliation against public servants when their expertise conflicts with a presidential administration’s political agenda.
The attorneys general also emphasize the rule’s dangerous impact on states, including California, which depend on consistent, professional federal partners to administer shared programs. States rely on civil servants at agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency, Department of Health and Human Services, and Department of Education to implement laws, distribute funds, and provide technical guidance. This reclassification would also affect civil servants at agencies that states rely on to manage disasters, such as the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The attorneys general further warn that the implementation of Schedule Policy/Career could return key parts of the federal workforce to a spoils system that enables a president to reward loyalists with jobs, rather than allow federal agencies to hire based on merit. Politicizing these positions would undermine cooperation, destabilize federal-state programs like Medicaid and environmental enforcement, and significantly degrade the effectiveness of the federal government, as well as its adherence to the rule of law. The attorneys general warn in the comment letter that Schedule F would erode federal-state relations by effectively shifting regulatory and programmatic burdens onto the states and coercing state compliance with federal political priorities.
This letter was co-led by Attorneys General Keith Ellison of Minnesota and Anne E. Lopez of Hawaii. They were joined by the attorneys general of Arizona, California, Connecticut, Colorado, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, and the District of Columbia.
A copy of the comment letter can be found here.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND)
***Click here for media resources.***
OTTAWA, CANADA – U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), co-chair of the Canada-United States Interparliamentary Group and the Senate American Canadian Economy and Security (ACES) Caucus, joined a bipartisan group of senators in traveling to Ottawa this week to reaffirm and strengthen the partnership between the two countries. Canada and the United States share a unique relationship. The two countries have fostered one of the most significant bilateral trading relationships in the world, one characterized by their close economic and national security ties.
The delegation met with Prime Minister Mark Carney, Foreign Minister Anita Anand, U.S. Ambassador to Canada Pete Hoekstra, Canada’s Minister of Industry Mélanie Joly, and representatives from industry and business groups. The overarching theme of the trip centered on advancing mutual priorities such as defense and security cooperation through the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), Arctic readiness, cross-border economic integration, addressing trade disruptions, and coordinated responses to global challenges.
“The United States and Canada share more than a border,” said Cramer.“From national security to commerce, we have both interests and challenges in common, working through them with open, frank dialogue. It was an honor to join my colleagues as part of this delegation to Ottawa. I was encouraged by the meetings, and the Prime Minister’s transparent and thoughtful words were smart and instructive. I look forward to working with our friends, business partners, and neighbors in Canada to strengthen our relationship and address mutual issues facing our great countries.”
While in Ottawa, Cramer visited with Ambassador Hoekstra about establishing a relationship focused on fostering fair trade. More than half of North Dakota’s exports are directed toward Canada. In 2024 alone, North Dakota exported $3.9 billion in goods to Canada, representing 70% of the state’s global exports. As former State Tourism and Economic Development Director in North Dakota, Cramer brought that perspective to additional discussions about the declines northern border states are experiencing in trade and tourism and emphasized the need to find a solution benefitting both nations.
The visit included a lunch with Canadian Foreign Minister Anand and a meeting with Canada’s Minister of Industry Mélanie Joly. Discussions included updates on further safeguards for the military readiness of NATO, and a review of the member states agreement in 2014 to commit two percent of their national gross domestic product (GDP) to defense spending. However, Canada only allocated 1.37% of its GDP to defense in 2024, prompting Cramer and his colleagues to send a letter to then-Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, asking him to examine whether a member of the NATO “has achieved defense spending of not less than 2 percent of its gross domestic product” when considering U.S. investments.
In addition to meeting with government officials, Cramer and colleagues participated in a roundtable with the Business Council of Canada, American Chamber of Commerce, and other leading Canadian companies.
Cramer was recently appointed co-chair of the Canada-United States Interparliamentary Group and introduced a bipartisan resolution with fellow ACES co-chair U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME). The resolution recognizes the U.S.-Canada partnership and its shared interests in economic, energy and critical minerals, and national security. Among other provisions, it reaffirms the bilateral and international alliance between the two countries, which allows both countries to face common threats together and uphold common values, including democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Idaho James E Risch
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jim Risch released a statement today on President Donald Trump’s executive actions to expand American nuclear energy production and streamline the deployment of advanced civil nuclear technologies.
“Nuclear energy is America’s creation and will be essential to powering our nation’s future,” said Risch.“President Trump’s actions present a significant opportunity for the U.S. civil nuclear industry to support America’s growing energy demands, bolster national security, and reinforce America’s leadership in energy innovation.”
On Friday, May 23, President Trump signed four executive orders to strengthen the American nuclear industrial base, expedite deployment of advanced nuclear technologies for national security, streamline testing on Department of Energy sites, and modernize the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.
As a senior member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee and chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Senator Risch is a leading voice on energy policy in the U.S. Senate. President Trump’s executive orders build on several priorities Risch has spearhead, including:
Promoting American Nuclear Exports: Risch led his colleagues in introducing the International Nuclear Energy Act to prioritize American dominance in nuclear energy and offset China and Russia’s growing influence on international nuclear energy development.
Fostering Nuclear Innovation: Risch co-founded the Senate Advanced Nuclear Caucus to amplify and support emerging nuclear technologies like those being developed at the Idaho National Laboratory. In a recent Washington Times editorial, Risch underscored the critical role of nuclear energy in powering America’s current and future energy needs.
Accelerating New Nuclear: Risch is a strong proponent of domestic nuclear energy production and the commercialization of advanced nuclear technologies, and has introduced legislation to accelerate new nuclear investment.
Reinvigorating the Nuclear Fuel Cycle: Risch was a leader in passing legislation to develop a domestic nuclear fuel supply chain and end U.S. reliance on Russian uranium.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn)
Senator Part of First Bipartisan Delegation to Meet with a Canadian Prime Minister in Canada in Five Years
Canadian Prime Minister and Klobuchar also talked ongoing women’s pro hockey finals with Minnesota Frost and Ottawa Charge tied in series
MINNESOTA— Today, U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar met with newly elected Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney in Ottawa to discuss rebuilding trade relations with Canada. This meeting came at a critical time in response to the ongoing tariff issues between the two countries since Donald Trump assessed tariffs on Canada and other nations Klobuchar was one of a bipartisan group of five U.S. senators, and the first group of lawmakers to meet with a prime minister in Canada in five years.
Joining Klobuchar were Senators Jeanne Shaheen, Tim Kaine, Kevin Cramer, and Peter Welch.
Senator Klobuchar is Co-Chair of the Canada-U.S. Inter-Parliamentary Group along with Republican Senator Cramer of North Dakota.
“Canada is Minnesota’s neighbor, top trading partner and close friend. We share a deep bond grounded in trust and a shared commitment to democracy,” said Klobuchar. “I also made clear there is bipartisan commitment to restoring stability, credibility, and sanity to our trade policy with Canada.”
In addition to discussing tariffs, Klobuchar also commended the Prime Minister for his decision to spend an hour with the bipartisan delegation and focus on issues ranging from tourism to energy policy.
When discussing the ongoing women’s pro hockey finals between the Minnesota Frost and the Ottawa Charge, she noted to Prime Minister Carney that diplomacy can only go so far: “Go Minnesota Frost,” she said.
Klobuchar and her colleagues also met with Foreign Minister Anita Anand, Minister of National Defense David McGuinty, Minister of Industry Mélanie Joly, the Business Council of Canada, and other leading Canadian companies and business groups.
This week, Klobuchar joined Cramer and Kaine in introducing a bipartisan resolution to recognize the U.S.-Canada partnership and its shared interests in economic, energy and critical minerals, and national security.
In April, Klobuchar’s bipartisan resolution with Kaine and Senator Mark Warner (D-VA) to reverse President Trump’s across-the-board tariffs on Canadian goods passed the Senate.
Photos available HERE.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Statement by Stephen Hickey, Director for Middle East and North Africa in the FCDO, at the Preparatory meeting of the High-Level International Conference for the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution.
I’d also like to express the UK’s thanks to Saudi Arabia and to France for your excellent leadership in steering our preparations for this high-level conference at the UN.
We are delighted to be co-chairing the Working Group on Humanitarian Action and Reconstruction with Egypt.
The Working Group has three main goals.
First, as the Egyptian Ambassador has just set out, we want to mobilise support for the Arab/Islamic Plan for Early Recovery, Reconstruction and Development.
The plan sets out a realistic path for the reconstruction of Gaza and, if implemented, promises swift and sustainable steps to improve the catastrophic living conditions for the Palestinians living in Gaza.
We strongly encourage all delegations ahead of the Conference in June to consider what concrete measures or commitments you can make to provide financial, technical, and capacity-building support to the plan, and to empower the Palestinian Authority to lead it.
Of course, recovery and reconstruction efforts must also be based upon a solid political and security framework, which provides peace and security for both Israelis and Palestinians alike.
We therefore encourage delegations to consider what enabling elements, including financial, governance and security arrangements, are required. We urgently need to get these in place so that reconstruction efforts are sustainable, inclusive, and can support longer-term peace.
Second, our Working Group will look to identify how we can address the dire humanitarian situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territories.
As my Prime Minister said this week, the level of human suffering in Gaza is intolerable.
Humanitarian access to the Gaza Strip has been completely blocked or severely restricted since 2 March, and the entire population is at risk of famine according to the latest IPC report of 12 May. Meanwhile, hostages continue to be held in appalling conditions.
The Secretary-General has been clear that the entry of humanitarian assistance must be restored immediately with UN agencies allowed to work in full respect of humanitarian principles.
The UK has allocated $135 million this year to support the OPTs, including to provide humanitarian relief and support for Palestinian economic development.
Our working group will explore how we can ensure sufficient funding of the response, and the steps that can be taken to ensure it is consistent with humanitarian principles and with International Humanitarian Law. This includes the needs of the most vulnerable groups.
Third and finally, UNRWA delivers essential services and life-saving humanitarian assistance to Palestinian refugees in the OPTs and in the region. It is indispensable. That is why in the last financial year, the UK provided $55 million in funding to support its important work.
Yet UNRWA is still facing a shortfall of more than $450 million from a budget of $880 million, as it confronts the biggest humanitarian crisis seen in the organisation’s history.
Our working group will consider what further support can be provided by all of us to UNRWA, including through securing sustainable financial contributions.
Further details on the aims of our Working Group Five are set out in the Concept Note, which has been circulated. We encourage written submissions on the guiding questions from delegations and the UN system by Friday, 30 May.
Co-chairs, in closing, the UK has long been clear that lasting peace and security for Palestinians and Israelis alike can only be achieved through a two-state solution.
We look forward to working with our Egyptian colleagues, the entire UN membership, and colleagues across the UN system to help deliver a conference which moves us towards this goal.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Statement by Stephen Hickey, Director for Middle East and North Africa in the FCDO, at the Preparatory meeting of the High-Level International Conference for the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution.
In addition to co-chairing Working Group Five on Humanitarian Action and Reconstruction in Gaza with our Egyptian colleagues, the UK is also looking forward to engaging across all the working groups.
I would like to set out three priority areas where the UK thinks this Conference can have real impact in moving us closer to achieving a Two-State Solution.
First, the Palestinian Authority. To achieve a sovereign and unified Palestinian State living in peace and security with Israel, we need to provide support to the Palestinian Authority so that it can effectively govern the entirety of the Occupied Palestinian Territories. This includes financial and technical assistance, as it delivers vital reforms.
We should also explore how to strengthen support for Palestinian Authority fiscal and trade reforms, especially under the PA-EU reform framework, with the aim of restoring the Palestinian Authority’s economic viability.
Second, security. Through Working Group Two, we have an important opportunity to consider how we can ensure long-term security for Israelis and Palestinians alike.
We should use this to build international consensus on the transitional security and governance arrangements for the future of Gaza, without Hamas, that can lay the ground for sustainable peace in the region.
Third, we should use the conference to consider concrete measures for safeguarding the Two-State Solution and upholding international law. This should include concrete measures to oppose illegal settlement activities and any attempts at annexation.
For its part, the UK has announced a series of sanctions targeting those responsible for supporting, inciting and promoting violence against Palestinian communities in the West Bank.
In addition to these three important themes, we must continue to press for an immediate and rapid increase in humanitarian aid delivery and distribution in Gaza. And we must also support the efforts led by the United States, Qatar and Egypt to secure an immediate ceasefire, the release of all remaining hostages, and achieve a long-term political solution.
This is the best and only way to ensure lasting prosperity and stability in the region.
Source: City of Birmingham
This evening the Council was granted an interim injunction to ensure that the picketing and protesting behaviour outside of the Council’s three depots is in accordance with legal provisions.
The injunction, which is in place until Thursday when a further hearing will take place, set out expected behaviour from those picketing and aims to prevent the obstruction of vehicles leaving the depots. The Council must now work to resume weekly collections and reduce the recent build up of waste experienced in the City.
Our priority is to deliver a reliable waste service to the people of Birmingham and since the Police withdrew their S14 powers last week, that has not been possible. We have seen an increase in disruption at our depots, with workers and vehicles being prevented from doing their jobs. This has in-turn led to a backlog of approx. 12,800 tonnes of waste on the streets.
The Council has been negotiating with Unite since the start of this strike around the behaviours we have seen at our depots, and whilst everyone has a right to protest, the council has a public health duty to uphold and clearing waste is central to this.
We believe that these actions are in breach of the law, as a result the Council issued Unite’s lawyers with a letter before action at the start of the week. We were subsequently given assurances in writing that there would be a change at the depots . This has not happened, and they have breached those reassurances this morning by again not allowing our trucks to leave.
Therefore the Council has taken the decision to proceed with an application to the High Court for a legal injunction to restrict the unlawful behaviour. This is not something we wanted to do and have given Unite many opportunities to co-operate with us and avoid this course of action.
The health and safety of the people of Birmingham is vitally important, and the council has been forced to take this action to prevent waste accumulating across our city, impacting deprived communities the most.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Jesús Chuy García (IL-04)
WASHINGTON, D.C. –– Today, Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04) took to the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives to condemn the Republican tax proposal that would strip healthcare and food assistance from millions of Americans to provide tax cuts for the ultra-wealthy.
A video of the speech can be found here.
Remarks as delivered:
“I rise today to speak against the Republican budget–a cynical plan that gives tax breaks to billionaires while ripping away health care and food from working families like those I represent.
“This Republican Tax Scam would kick off nearly 14 million Americans off their health care, leaving them without coverage.
“In my district, a mother working nights and caring for her family by day told us that she doesn’t know how they’ll survive if Medicaid is cut– her child relies on it for epilepsy medication. Without it, there’s no safety net. Just fear and uncertainty.
“This budget slashes Medicaid and SNAP, taking food from children, from seniors, from veterans, and people with disabilities. Even Republican Senators have called it ‘morally wrong’.
“In my district alone, 278,000 people rely on these programs. Republicans want to take that away– we can’t allow them to continue to loot this country dry. America was not built for billionaires to hoard wealth while kids go hungry. Tax them — fairly, fully, now.”
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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Jesús Chuy García (IL-04)
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04) issued the following statement after voting against Trump’s Tax Scam:
“Republicans rammed through their Tax Scam in the dead of the night because they know the truth: this bill is a handout to billionaires at the expense of working families.
“The bill is cruel, harmful, and deliberate. The largest cut to healthcare and food assistance in U.S. history! Republicans ripped away care from children, seniors, and people with disabilities—just to fund tax breaks for the ultra-wealthy.
“Nearly 14 million people will lose their health care. Millions more will have to pay higher premiums. In my district alone, 278,000 people who rely on Medicaid are at risk.
“The bill redirects nearly $80 billion to Trump’s mass deportation machine while terrorizing immigrants and imposing a new tax on non-citizens’ remittances.
“I voted no. I stand with working families, not billionaires and bullies.”
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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Jesús Chuy García (IL-04)
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04) issued the following statement about the killing of two Israeli Embassy employees at the Capital Jewish Museum:
“I strongly condemn this horrible, senseless act of antisemitism. My heart is with the victims, and everyone impacted by the attack. We mourn the lives lost and reject the idea that justice can be won through violence.”
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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Rick Larsen (2nd Congressional District Washington)
Today, Rep. Rick Larsen released the following statement on the Trump administration’s attacks on academic freedom and access to education:
“The Trump administration is attacking colleges and universities to exact political revenge. These tactics will fail, and I stand with Harvard and all educational institutions against the President’s unlawful attempts to bully his opponents into silence.
“The Administration should be investing in research and young people to keep the U.S. globally innovative and competitive. Instead, it is slashing funding that supports cutting-edge science, hard-working students and local jobs.
“In Northwest Washington, funding cuts have jeopardized climate resiliency research at the University of Washington and Mars sample testing at Western Washington University. Funding cuts are also threatening the Federal TRIO Programs and Pell Grants, which have a proven track record of helping low-income and first-generation students succeed.
“I will continue to fight against the Trump administration’s budget cuts, and to fight for academic freedom, college affordability, and keeping the U.S. globally innovative and competitive.”
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Source: United States Small Business Administration
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced today the opening of a Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC) in Stephens County to assist small businesses, private nonprofit (PNP) organizations, and residents affected by severe storms and flooding beginning April 19.
“Beginning Tuesday, May 27, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at the Disaster Loan Outreach Center in Duncan to answer questions and assist with the disaster loan application process. No appointment is necessary, walk-ins are welcome. Those who prefer to schedule an in-person appointment in advance can do so at appointment.sba.gov.
The center’s hours of operation are as follows:
STEPHENS COUNTY
Disaster Loan Outreach Center
Stephens County Fairgrounds
Prairie Room
2002 S. 13th St.
Duncan, OK 73533
Opens at 12 p.m., Tuesday, May 27
Tuesday, 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Wednesday, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Thursday, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Friday, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Closes permanently at COB Friday, May 30
“When disasters strike, SBA’s Disaster Loan Outreach Centers perform an important role by assisting small businesses and their communities,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the U.S. Small Business Administration. “At these centers, our SBA specialists help business owners and residents apply for disaster loans and learn about the full range of programs available to support their recovery.”
Businesses and nonprofits are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans and may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.
Homeowners and renters are eligible to apply for home and personal property loans and may borrow up to $100,000 to replace or repair personal property, such as clothing, furniture, cars, and appliances. Homeowners may apply for up to $500,000 to replace or repair their primary residence.
Applicants may be eligible for a loan increase of up to 20% of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements include insulating pipes, walls and attics, weather stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows to help protect property and occupants from future disasters.
The SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and private nonprofit organizations impacted by financial losses directly related to these disasters. 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.
Interest rates are as low as 4% for small businesses, 3.62% for nonprofits, and 2.75% for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA determines eligibility and 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.
The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is July 11, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is Feb. 12, 2026.
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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.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Wyoming Cynthia Lummis
Washington, D.C.— Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) and Senator Steve Daines (R-MT) introduced legislation today that would ensure Wyoming veterans’ access to mental healthcare in their local communities.
“Providing for those who’ve defended our nation is the VA’s core purpose,” said Lummis. “This means Wyoming’s courageous veterans deserve top-tier healthcare services regardless of their geographic location. I remain committed to ensuring veterans throughout our state can access the medical care they’ve earned in their local communities.”
“Our nation’s veterans have put their lives on the line to protect our freedoms, and the last thing they should have to worry about is mismanagement and delays at the VA. I’m proud to work with my colleagues on this bill to strengthen the availability of community based mental health programs and ensure that our veterans have access to the care and resources that they deserve,” said Daines.
“No veteran should face unnecessary delays in accessing mental health care,” said Tim Sheppard, Executive Director of the Wyoming Veterans Commission. “This bill guarantees that those who served are prioritized, not left waiting.”
Background:
The Protecting Veteran Community Care Act strengthens the existing community care program, limits the VA’s ability to restrict access to care in the community, and requires the VA to track relevant community care data and provide those statistics to Congress.
Specifically, this legislation would:
Amend the MISSION Act to specifically include inpatient mental health standards.
Add clarity to veteran eligibility for care in the community.
Require the VA to track and present to Congress data on how veterans are requesting and using community care, along with what services community care funds are paying for.
Require passage of a Joint Resolution in both chambers of Congress to modify community care eligibility.
The 2018 VA MISSION Act was a landmark piece of legislation that overhauled the VA Choice Program to provide veterans with improved access to healthcare. Unfortunately, the VA has failed to live up to its obligation to provide timely care. Veterans are still facing unacceptably long waiting periods and frequently rescheduled appointments. The VA continues to fall short on the complete and proper implementation of the MISSION Act. This has resulted in the need for Congress to strengthen existing authorities to ensure that the VA isn’t restricting care in the community for veterans who need it most.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)
May 23, 2025
Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden, alongside U.S. Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04), are calling for swift approval of Oregon Governor Tina Kotek’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The push comes in response to devastating flooding and other damaging weather-related events that severely impacted Coos, Curry, Douglas, and Harney counties in March.
“Given the extent of the damage to both physical and social infrastructure across four counties, we urge you and your administration to act swiftly to ensure that State and Local governments have all the federal resources they need to recover and rebuild,” the lawmakers said in their letter to President Trump.
The wide-ranging weather triggered several incidents from the South Coast to Eastern Oregon between March 13 and March 20, as warm rains led to rapid snowmelt that contributed to severe runoff and erosion. Three rivers reached major flood levels, and wind gusts of over 45 miles per hour caused power outages and blocked roads.
In Harney County, a critical levee system protecting the City of Burns and members of the Burns Paiute Tribe failed, causing floodwaters to rapidly increase and inundate homes and agricultural fields.
“Local leaders, first responders, volunteers, and neighbors stepped up heroically to protect lives and begin recovery efforts across Coos, Curry, Douglas, and Harney Counties. These are close- knit, self-reliant communities that have banded together to recover from these severe weather events and support one another,” the lawmakers stressed. “We encourage your administration to deliver the tools needed to protect lives, restore order, and get families back on their feet.”
In addition to supporting the Governor’s request for Public Assistance (PA) to help communities in all four counties quickly recover from this disaster, the letter from lawmakers calls on FEMA to provide support to eligible individuals and households in Coos, Curry, and Douglas affected by the disaster through the Individual Assistance (IA) program.
They also urged the White House to make the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) available statewide for this event to help rural communities rebuild in a way that mitigates future disaster losses.
“Oregon has demonstrated its ability to successfully use federal disaster dollars in the past, and we are confident they will be effective and efficient with funds from FEMA should they be provided for this disaster as well,” emphasized the lawmakers.
Full text of the letter can be found by clicking HERE.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)
May 23, 2025
Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden are calling on President Trump to urgently approve Oregon Governor Tina Kotek’s request for Individual Assistance (IA) from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to support the Harney County community as they continue to recover from the worst flooding the region has seen in nearly 70 years.
The flooding left hundreds of rural homes damaged and overwhelmed the City of Burns’ sewer system which required many residents to leave their homes to use portable toilets or travel to the next town to shower. Today, many of these homes remain contaminated due to the raw sewage that washed through the floors and along the walls.
“Raging waters damaged homes and small businesses and created dangerous health conditions,” the Senators wrote in their letter to the White House.
At the height of the flood on April 7 of this year, more than 1,400 people were advised to evacuate their homes in Burns and the Burns Paiute Reservation. This was a significant part of Harney County’s population, which is only around 7,400. The Senators also noted that this flood comes on the heels of other natural disasters in the region, including wildfires and severe drought.
“The combined toll of these events has pushed many rural Oregonians to the brink,” the Senators stressed. “While the people of Harney County are resilient and deeply rooted in the values of hard work and self-reliance, they also rely on government at all levels to fulfill its basic duty in times of crisis.”
The scale of the disaster in Harney County, combined with limited local resources, has left many rural Oregonians without the means to rebuild on their own—making Individual Assistance through FEMA critical.
“Smart, targeted federal aid can make a lasting difference – especially when delivered in cooperation with local officials who know their communities best,” the Senators closed.
The full text of the Senator’s letter can be found by clicking HERE.
Source:
(Butte, MT.) Today, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke attended the renaming ceremony for the Butte Veterans Affairs (VA) Clinic, which is now officially named the “Charlie Dowd Department of Veterans Affairs Clinic.” Congressman Zinke introduced the legislation to rename the clinic in January of 2024, with companion legislation introduced by Senator Steve Daines. The legislation was signed into law in July of 2024.
“Today was a deeply meaningful day as we renamed the Butte VA Clinic in honor of Radioman Charlie Dowd, a Pearl Harbor and WWII hero, and truly incredible American who dedicated his life after the Navy to serving Montana,” said Congressman Zinke
Zinke continued, “I had the privilege of visiting with Charlie many times over the years, and I’ll never forget listening to him share stories from Pearl Harbor and the South Pacific. Even at 99, he could still fit into his uniform and tap out Morse code like he did in the service. The ‘Charlie Dowd Department of Veterans Affairs Clinic’ will serve as a lasting reminder of Devil Dog Dowd’s legacy of bravery and lifelong commitment to his country, his fellow veterans, and his community.”
Charlie Dowd enlisted in the U.S. Navy in January 1941 and served as a radioman at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. During the infamous attack on December 7, 1941, which damaged 21 ships and claimed the lives of 2,400 Americans, Charlie, in a t-shirt and trousers, sprinted from the barracks to the armory, where he climbed to the roof to fire at the Japanese enemy aircraft, namely low-flying torpedo bombers. Through his act of bravery and continued service in the Navy in both the Solomon Islands and New Guinea, he earned the nickname “Devil Dog Dowd” from his shipmates for his unwavering willingness to volunteer for the most dangerous mission assignments.
After receiving an honorable discharge from the Navy along with seven Bronze Star Medals, Charlie became a respected member of the Anaconda, Montana, community. He was known for his advocacy on behalf of fellow veterans, his dedication to preserving the memory of the events of World War II, and his active membership in the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association. Charlie loved speaking to civic groups and museums across Montana. He was also an avid sportsman and served as an outdoor writer for the Anaconda Leader newspaper.
After Dowd’s passing in March 2023, Congressman Zinke honored him in the Congressional Record. Read the issue here.
See photos from the event here.
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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Frank J. Mrvan (IN)
Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Frank J. Mrvan released the statement below following the announcement regarding Nippon Steel.
“From the very beginning of this proposed acquisition, I was steadfast in voicing serious concerns about the implications of foreign ownership – particularly Nippon Steel’s record on trade practices – and the critical importance of preserving American control over our steel production, which is vital to our national security.
“In the months since, as the Vice Chairman of the Congressional Steel Caucus, I’ve listened closely to the many voices raised across the political spectrum, including from the prior administration and the Trump Administration. It is clear that this unified front of concern and advocacy played a crucial role in shaping the terms, incentives, and safeguards now in place.
“Thanks to this persistent and bipartisan pressure, we are in a stronger, more secure position today than we were at the time of the initial announcement. But let me be clear: this is not the end of our oversight. Nippon Steel must be held to every promise made – from promises to the hardworking steelworkers of Northwest Indiana and the City of Gary, to the economic and strategic interests of the United States. We will not hesitate to act if those commitments are broken.”
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