NewzIntel.com

Category: CTF

  • MIL-OSI: Univest Securities, LLC Announces Closing of $5 Million Registered Offering for its Client WORK Medical Technology Group LTD (NASDAQ: WOK)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, New York, May 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Univest Securities, LLC (“Univest”), a member of FINRA and SIPC, and a full-service investment bank and securities broker-dealer firm based in New York, today announced the closing of registered offering (the “Offering”) for its client WORK Medical Technology Group LTD (Nasdaq: WOK) (the “Company”), a supplier of medical devices in China, through its subsidiary, Work (Hangzhou) Medical Treatment Equipment Co., Ltd. and its subsidiaries in China.

    Under the terms of the securities purchase agreement, the Company has agreed to sell to several investors for the purchase and sale of an aggregate of 10,000,000 ordinary units (the “Ordinary Units”) at an offering price of $0.50 per Ordinary Unit.

    Each Ordinary Unit consists of one Class A ordinary share, par value $0.0005 (a “Class A Ordinary Share”), one Series A warrant to purchase one Class A Ordinary Share at an exercise price of $1.00 (a “Series A Warrant”), and one Series B warrant to purchase one Class A Ordinary Share at an exercise price of $1.00 (a “Series B Warrant”). The Series A Warrants and Series B Warrants are immediately exercisable upon issuance, with the Series A Warrants expiring in 12 months, and Series B Warrants expiring in 3 months.

    The aggregate gross proceeds to the Company were approximately $5 million.

    Univest Securities, LLC acted as the sole book-running manager.

    The registered offering was made pursuant to a registration statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-284006) previously filed by the Company and declared effective by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). A final prospectus supplement and accompanying prospectus describing the terms of the proposed offering were filed with the SEC and are available on the SEC’s website located at http://www.sec.gov. Electronic copies of the final prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus may be obtained, by contacting Univest Securities, LLC at info@univest.us, or by calling +1 (212) 343-8888.

    This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

    About Univest Securities, LLC

    Registered with FINRA since 1994, Univest Securities, LLC provides a wide variety of financial services to its institutional and retail clients globally including brokerage and execution services, sales and trading, market making, investment banking and advisory, wealth management. It strives to provide clients with value-add service and focuses on building long-term relationship with its clients. For more information, please visit: www.univest.us.

    About WORK Medical Technology Group LTD

    WORK Medical Technology Group LTD, through its subsidiary, Work (Hangzhou) Medical Treatment Equipment Co., Ltd. and its subsidiaries in China, is a supplier of medical devices that develops and manufactures Class I and II medical devices and sells Class I and II disposable medical devices through operating subsidiaries in China. The Company has a diverse product portfolio comprising 21 products, including customized and multifunctional masks and other medical consumables. All the products have been sold in 34 provincial-level administrative regions in China, with 15 of them sold in more than 30 countries worldwide. The Company has received a number of quality-related manufacturing designations and has registered 17 products with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration allowing their products to enter the U.S. market. For more information, please visit the Company’s website: https://www.workmedtech.com/corporate.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements as defined by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include statements concerning plans, objectives, goals, strategies, future events or performance, and underlying assumptions and other statements that are other than statements of historical facts. When the Company uses words such as “may, “will, “intend,” “should,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “project,” “estimate” or similar expressions that do not relate solely to historical matters, it is making forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties that may cause the actual results to differ materially from the Company’s expectations discussed in the forward-looking statements. These statements are subject to uncertainties and risks including, but not limited to, the uncertainties related to market conditions and the completion of the initial public offering on the anticipated terms or at all, and other factors discussed in the “Risk Factors” section of the registration statement filed with the SEC. For these reasons, among others, investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance upon any forward-looking statements in this press release. Additional factors are discussed in the Company’s filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov. Univest Securities LLC and the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly revise these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that arise after the date hereof.

    For more information, please contact:

    Univest Securities, LLC
    Edric Guo
    Chief Executive Officer
    75 Rockefeller Plaza, Suite 18C
    New York, NY 10019
    Phone: (212) 343-8888
    Email: info@univest.us

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Greenpeace USA slams PepsiCo for ditching reuse target 

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    WASHINGTON, DC (May 22, 2025) – In response to PepsiCo’s announcement that it will abandon its goal to deliver 20% of its beverages in reusable containers by 2030, Greenpeace USA Senior Oceans Campaigner Lisa Ramsden, said: “PepsiCo is the latest corporate polluter to abandon its reuse targets, a move that will undoubtedly force more plastic pollution into our environment and burden our bodies with more toxic microplastics. We clearly can’t trust corporations like PepsiCo to do what’s best for people and the planet, and this exemplifies why voluntary commitments by corporations have never been enough. We need a strong and binding Global Plastics Treaty that caps plastic production and ends single-use plastics.”

    PepsiCo’s decision follows its rival Coca-Cola’s similar abandonment of its reuse goal in  December 2024 and Coke’s recent announcement of plans to ramp up plastic production in response to the Trump Administration’s tariffs on aluminum. Both companies are among the world’s top global plastic polluters. 

    Plastics are not just a pollution problem; they are a public health crisis. Over 3,200 chemicals in plastics have been linked to a host of serious health conditions, including cancer, hormone disruption, reproductive problems, metabolic changes, obesity, premature births, neurological disorders, and learning disabilities. Toxic chemicals in plastic already cost Americans nearly $250 billion in healthcare expenses each year. 

    PepsiCo’s announcement comes as the ‘Make America Healthy Again’ report, released today, finds that Americans are exposed to these chemicals through many routes, including food and beverage packaging. Microplastics have been found in human breast milk, brain, lung, and heart tissue.

    Contact: Tanya Brooks, Senior Communications Specialist at Greenpeace USA , [email protected]   

    Greenpeace USA is part of a global network of independent campaigning organizations that use peaceful protest and creative communication to expose global environmental problems and promote solutions that are essential to a green and peaceful future. Greenpeace USA is committed to transforming the country’s unjust social, environmental, and economic systems from the ground up to address the climate crisis, advance racial justice, and build an economy that puts people first. Learn more at www.greenpeace.org/usa.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: On MSNBC, Rosen Discusses Her Successful Passage of Her Bipartisan Bill to Eliminate Taxes on Tips

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    WASHINGTON, DC – Last night, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) joined The Weeknight on MSNBC to discuss how she was able to pass her bipartisan No Tax on Tips Act in the Senate. The bill, which Senator Rosen passed by unanimous consent, would exempt American workers’ tipped wages from federal income tax. It now heads to the U.S. House of Representatives to be considered. Nevada has the highest concentration of tipped workers in the nation, and the bipartisan No Tax on Tips Act would allow workers to keep their tips without having to pay federal income tax on them. This bipartisan legislation also includes guardrails to ensure that it benefits workers who need it most, not CEOs and the ultra-wealthy.
    MSNBC: Rosen Discusses Senate Passage of Her Bipartisan No Tax On Tips Act
    HOST: I did want to give you the shout-out on the tax on tips bill that you called up yesterday. And it passed.
    ROSEN:  Yes. Yes, it did.
    HOST:  Tell us, what magic did you bring to that?
    ROSEN:  Well, I want to tell you, my motto is, agree where you can, fight where you must.
    And so this is a great bill for Nevada, because 25 percent of our workforce is in hospitality. 
    You may not know this, but I put myself through school as a waitress. I worked as a member of the Culinary Union. And even after I got my first job as a computer programmer, I continued to wait tables because I didn’t make enough money. So I know what it means to live on tips.
    [The] Average Nevadan makes about 40 grand a year. Our bill, the bill in the Senate, is a stronger bill with guardrails, so those who need to not pay taxes on their tips are really the tip workers, not some CEO or billionaire like Elon Musk and the entire Cabinet, so they can declare their salary as a tip.
    So, this bill is a stronger, better bill. It should stand on its own. I’m going to challenge the House to pass it, because in that reckless reconciliation bill that they have been working on since 1:00 a.m., the middle of the night, they have a different bill for tax on tips. It doesn’t have the guardrails. And so I urge them to pass this one and get it over the finish line.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen Celebrates Removal of Destructive Amodei Lands Proposal From Extreme House Budget Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) released the following statement applauding the news that Congressman Mark Amodei’s (R-NV-02) hastily-drafted and misguided proposal to sell off public lands in Nevada was removed from the House Republicans’ extreme budget reconciliation package that they passed this morning. 
    “It’s great news for Nevada that Congressman Amodei’s flawed, hastily-drafted proposal to sell our state’s public lands has been removed from the extreme House Republican budget that passed today. This proposal would have led to Nevada losing out on the opportunity for hundreds of millions of dollars in funding so that it could instead pay for more tax cuts for billionaires,” said Senator Rosen. “I’ll keep working in the Senate to make sure my Washoe and Pershing County Lands Bills, which have been endorsed by a wide range of stakeholders in Nevada, are passed.”
    The flawed amendment proposed by Congressman Amodei would have sold off nearly 16,000 acres of public lands in Washoe County and hundreds of thousands of acres of public lands in Pershing County to pay for Congressional Republicans’ budget reconciliation proposal. It would have abandoned key provisions in the Truckee Meadows Public Lands Management Act, also known as the Washoe County Lands Bill, and directed funds from public land sales in Nevada to the U.S. Treasury, instead of keeping the funding in Nevada. It also ignored the balance struck in the Pershing County Economic Development and Conservation Act.
    Senator Rosen’s Washoe County Lands Bill would: 
    Permanently protect a million acres of public lands, which Congressman Amodei cut in his proposal.
    Promote sustainable growth and economic development by directing over 15,200 acres of public lands to be made eligible for sale, all of which must be assessed for its suitability for new affordable housing. An additional 33 acres are set aside to only be sold for affordable housing. Any land sold for affordable housing would have to be sold at less than fair market value.
    Support local Tribal communities by expanding land held in trust by more than 8,400 acres for the Reno-Sparks Indian Colony, 11,300 acres for the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe, and over 1,000 acres for the Washoe Tribe of Nevada and California, none of which was in the Amodei proposal.
    Provide local governments over 3,700 acres for public purposes such as parks, water treatment facilities, fire stations, and schools, all of which was excluded from the Amodei proposal. Land is specifically conveyed to Washoe County, the City of Reno, the City of Sparks, the Incline Village General Improvement District, the Gerlach General Improvement District, the State of Nevada, the Truckee River Flood Management Authority, the Washoe County School District, and the University of Nevada, Reno.
    Keep proceeds from land sales in Nevada for priorities like education and restoration around the Truckee River.
    For years, Senator Rosen has worked closely with a wide range of stakeholders across Washoe County to develop this comprehensive legislation. In 2023, she unveiled a working draft of the bill and collected feedback from hundreds of Nevadans during a public comment period, which she then incorporated into this legislation, which was previously introduced last year with the support of local government officials, conservation advocates, and business leaders.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: Senator Rosen Secures Air Force Commitment to Address Long-Overdue Veteran Benefits Issue for Toxic Exposures at Nevada Test and Training Range

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    Watch Senator Rosen’s Exchange HERE.
    WASHINGTON, DC – During a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing, Senator Jacky Rosen (NV) secured a commitment from senior Air Force officials to take action to address critical gaps in care and benefits for veterans who were exposed to toxins and radiation at classified locations, including six in Nevada alone that the Department of Energy recognizes as exposure zones. Senator Rosen highlighted how servicemembers have been denied care because the Pentagon has neglected to similarly recognize their contaminated worksites as exposure zones, despite decades of nuclear testing and documented hazards.
    Earlier this week, Senator Rosen also urged immediate action in a letter to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and top Pentagon officials imploring them to investigate the matter and ensure veterans receive the care they deserve. This follows an exchange she had on this topic with General Dan Caine in his nomination hearing earlier this year to be Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
    “Several constituents have brought to my attention that they were exposed to radiation and toxic substances– including emissions from burn pits used to dispose of debris from developmental aircraft– while stationed at NTTR [Nevada Test and Training Range],” wrote Senator Rosen in the letter. “However, because of the classified nature of their assignments, they cannot substantiate their presence or exposure.”
    “I urge the Department to conduct a comprehensive review to determine whether veterans who served at classified or data-masked locations have portions of their medical records similarly classified or otherwise inaccessible to the VA,” she continued. “If such restrictions exist, I request that the Department develop a secure and efficient process– coordinated with the VA– to ensure that relevant health information can be shared for the purposes of care and benefits adjudication, while still protecting the sensitive nature of the veteran’s service. No veteran should be denied care because their records are locked behind classification barriers.”
    The full letter can be found HERE.
    Below is the transcript of Senator Rosen’s exchange with the Secretary of the Air Force during the hearing: 
    Senator Rosen: I have heard from constituents who served at such locations within the Nevada Test and Training Range, who believe they were exposed to radiation from our days of conducting explosive nuclear weapons testing, and to toxins from burn pits which disposed of classified waste. However, [the Department of Defense] does not classify the range as a place where exposure occurred – despite the Department of Energy providing a presumption of exposure for their personnel who served at these exact same locations within the range, such as the Tonopah Test Range. And, because their service records are Data Masked, these veterans can’t even prove to the VA that they were ever stationed there. Imagine that?
    All of this has prevented them from being able to receive the veterans’ benefits they deserve. Secretary Meink and General Allvin … will you work with me and this committee to ensure that the Department of the Air Force both provides a presumption of exposure at relevant Air Force locations, where the Department of Energy has done so for their personnel, and ensure that those who served—or are currently serving—at these sites receive sufficient documentation to support health-related claims, all while protecting the classified nature of their service? 
    Secretary of the Air Force Troy E. Meink: Yes, Senator, we take the health of our workforce seriously and we need to deal with this issue. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: Rosen, Rick Scott Pass Their Bipartisan Resolution Recognizing Jewish American Heritage Month Unanimously in Senate

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    In Remarks, Rosen Calls Out Heinous Murder of Israeli Embassy Employees at Jewish Museum Event
    Video can be found HERE.
    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and Rick Scott (R-FL) took to the Senate floor to condemn last night’s antisemitic attack in Washington, DC and pass their bipartisan resolution recognizing May as Jewish Heritage American Month. The resolution celebrates the many contributions of Jewish Americans to the United States and calls on elected officials, faith leaders, and civil society leaders to condemn and combat any and all acts of antisemitism. 
    “Like so many other Jews in America and around the world, I woke up this morning heartbroken by the news of yet another unspeakable act of antisemitic violence that occurred late last night. This shooting was antisemitism — plain and simple,” said Senator Rosen. “We cannot be silent. There is a desperate need to confront dangerous and growing antisemitism in our country and around the world, and to show that bigoted efforts to intimidate us will not work. That’s why I’m proud to have passed my bipartisan resolution with Senator Rick Scott to recognize and celebrate Jewish Americans and their accomplishments, and to encourage greater understanding. Together, we’ll continue working to build a more inclusive and welcoming America, where Jewish Americans can freely and proudly express their faith and identity.”
    “I am proud to once again recognize Jewish American Heritage Month with the unanimous passage of our bipartisan resolution honoring the profound contributions of Jewish Americans to our nation’s history, culture, and success,” said Senator Rick Scott. “As we continue to see a disturbing rise in antisemitism following Hamas terrorists’ October 7, 2023, attack on Israel, and in the wake of the tragic killing of two staff members from the Israeli Embassy in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday night, this resolution reaffirms America’s strong and united commitment to stand with Jewish Americans and against hatred in all forms. In Florida, we are blessed to have incredible Jewish communities that enrich every part of our state. I am as committed as ever to working with leaders at the local, state, and federal levels to ensure these communities are safe, supported, and empowered to live freely and pursue the American Dream.”
    For years, Senator Rosen has worked across party lines to combat antisemitism and prevent efforts to do so from becoming politicized. In February, Rosen introduced the bipartisan Antisemitism Awareness Act, which directs the Department of Education to use the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s (IHRA) definition of antisemitism when investigating antisemitic acts on college campuses. Earlier this year, Rosen introduced bipartisan legislation to strengthen Holocaust education. Last year, Rosen’s bipartisan legislation to reauthorize the Never Again Education Act became law. Rosen helped launch the first-ever Senate Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Antisemitism with Senator James Lankford (R-OK) and led the push to create the first-ever national strategy to counter antisemitism. Senator Rosen also helped introduce a bipartisan resolution denouncing antisemitism at institutions of higher education, which passed the Senate unanimously.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: “We Will Not Forget:” Padilla Sends Strong Warning as Republicans Go Nuclear to Revoke California Clean Air Waivers

    US Senate News:

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

    “We Will Not Forget:” Padilla Sends Strong Warning as Republicans Go Nuclear to Revoke California Clean Air Waivers

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration and a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, blasted Republicans for their shortsighted revocation of California’s clean air waivers by overruling the nonpartisan Senate Parliamentarian’s decision and going nuclear on the Senate rulebook. Republicans defied their own promises and broke 30 years of precedent by moving forward with their cynical repeal of California’s Clean Air Act waivers with a 50-vote threshold under the Congressional Review Act (CRA), bypassing the filibuster and its 60-vote requirement by overruling the Senate Parliamentarian.
    Over the last few weeks, Padilla has spoken on the Senate floor repeatedly to sound the alarm on Senate Republicans’ revocations of these critical waivers.
    “Over the last 24 hours, Trump and radical Republicans have gone nuclear on the Senate rulebook, stopping at nothing to attack California for protecting the health of my constituents, for having the audacity to lead the clean energy economy. California became the fourth-largest economy in the world by leaning in to the clean energy transition, and we’ve proved that what’s good for the planet and our air is good for business. By denying California the ability to control our own toxic air and greenhouse gas emissions, Republicans are threatening the public health, environment, and economy for millions of my constituents and people around the country. And let me be clear: California has not and cannot force our emission standards on any other state in the nation.
    “It’s not just why Republicans are undermining California’s climate leadership. It’s how they did it. Republicans are effectively saying that whenever the Parliamentarian rules against them, they can simply disregard her to bypass the filibuster and pass legislation on a simple majority vote. So no, this isn’t some one-off change to the rules — this is throwing out the rulebook entirely — all to please Donald Trump and the Big Oil lobby. If they can ignore the Parliamentarian here, then why not on an upcoming tax bill, or to gut health care, or to revoke lifesaving vaccine approvals?
    “Republicans have crossed the red line and gone nuclear. As the saying goes, ‘what goes around comes around.’ And it won’t be long before Democrats are back in the driver’s seat again. When that happens, all bets will be off. Every agency action that Democrats don’t like — whether it’s a rule or not — will be fair game, from mining permits and fossil fuel projects to foreign affairs and tax policies.
    “We will not forget what happened here. History won’t forget. And California will not forget.”
    Senator Padilla has been a leading voice in pushing back against Republican attacks on California’s Clean Air Act waivers. Earlier this week, Padilla placed a hold on the four pending Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) nominees until Republicans stop their reckless attempts to overturn California’s clean air waivers. Padilla, along with Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), and Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) also led Democratic Ranking Members in strongly warning Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) and Majority Whip John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) of the dangerous and irreparable consequences if Senate Republicans overrule the Senate Parliamentarian’s decision on California’s waivers.
    Last month, Padilla, Whitehouse, and Senator Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) welcomed the Senate Parliamentarian’s decision that the waivers are not subject to the CRA. Padilla also joined Whitehouse and Schiff in blasting Trump and EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin’s weaponization of the EPA after the Government Accountability Office’s (GAO) similar finding. Padilla and Schiff previously slammed the Trump Administration’s intent to roll back dozens of the EPA’s regulations that protect California’s air and water.
    Throughout the past several weeks, Padilla has made clear that these reckless revocations of California’s clean air waivers will lead to disastrous public health, environmental, and economic impacts for millions of Californians and people across the country. Inaction against the climate crisis costs Americans an average of $2,500 a year in medical bills and over $820 billion in total, according to estimates by the Natural Resources Defense Council.
    Padilla has consistently stressed the extreme consequences of Republicans ignoring the Parliamentarian, effectively blowing up the filibuster. While he and other Democrats supported lowering the threshold to pass a bill in 2022, Republicans defended the filibuster relentlessly — a dramatic contrast from their revocation of California’s waivers under a simple majority vote.
    Now that they’ve taken the nuclear option, the Trump Administration could make a series of dangerous moves in bogging down Congress with reviews from the past 30 years on items including vaccine approvals, broadcast licenses, merger approvals, and more, enabling President Trump’s political retribution. Padilla has warned multiple times that a future Democratic administration could come after Republican oil and gas priorities, including mining permits, fossil fuel projects, foreign policy, tax policies, and Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) disruptions.
    In case you missed it, Senators Schumer, Whitehouse, Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Schiff, and Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) also all came out strongly against Republicans’ reckless effort and warned of the consequences of setting this new precedent.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Jayapal Statement on DHS Order Blocking International Students at Harvard

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (7th District of Washington)

    SEATTLE, WA — U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Immigration Integrity, Security, released the following statement regarding the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) announcement that they are revoking Harvard University’s Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) certification, ending international students’ ability to study at the school.

    “This is a remarkably dangerous and unlawful action from the Trump Administration. The decision to revoke Harvard’s SEVP certification is solely to settle a score and shut down any dissent, not to protect our national security. This decision will now throw thousands of students’ lives into limbo as they face an uncertain future in a foreign land that had previously welcomed them and their talents. As a foreign student myself when I first came to America, I can only imagine the sacrifices, the planning and the investment that has already gone into the decision to come here — to revoke these visas now is outrageous. 

    “And to attempt to deny the ability of Harvard to take any foreign students is both unlawful and deeply detrimental to our country’s own ability to innovate and attract talent from all over the world.  For generations, this country’s universities have been the bedrock of learning, and a thriving place for free speech, learning and growth. Trump is now turning them into places of fear, uncertainty, and chaos.

    “This action simply deters talent from coming to the United States, and is nothing more than a wannabe dictator trying to bully people into silence. It will weaken our educational institutions and our ability to innovate and hurt America and Americans.”

    As the Trump Administration continues to target immigrant students, Jayapal has been a vocal leader in the effort to protect them. She led a group of 142 Members of Congress in demanding answers regarding the termination of students’ legal status at schools across the country earlier this month.  

    Issues: Arts & Education, Immigration

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: $1 billion of Māori funding gone

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    The Government should hang its head in shame after a budget that takes a knife to more Māori programmes.

    “In Budget 2024 more than $300 million was cut from Māori specific initiatives – Te Arawhiti, The Māori Health Authority, and Māori TV. Budget 2025 cuts even deeper with around $750 million cut from Māori Housing, Māori economic funds, Māori Education and programmes like Māori trades training,” Māori Development spokesperson, Willie Jackson said.

    “Over the two budgets, Tama Potaka has now slashed more than $1 billion of Māori specific funding and that is shameful.

    “Louise Upston has also made the shameful choice to stop funding Māori trade training when Māori unemployment has risen to 10.5 percent, with no plan to support Māori into meaningful jobs.

    “The biggest hit is in Māori housing. Whai Kainga Whai Oranga and the whole Māori housing programme has been scrapped. In total $624 million has been wiped from the books.

    “Tama Potaka is ignoring the housing data showing Māori are in the most need and has chosen to wash his hands of Māori housing.

    “This government is providing a mere $3 million per year worth of new funding for Māori Wardens and the Māori Women’s Welfare League – yet has increased its ministerial budget for international travel by $2 million per year.

    “At the same time, David Seymour is introducing his Regulatory Standards Bill under urgency that extinguishes more Māori rights, cementing this government’s lack of care towards Māori.

    “This government has proven once again that it has turned its back on the Māori-Crown relationship,” Willie Jackson said.

    Stay in the loop by signing up to our mailing list and following us on Facebook, Instagram, and X. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Govt guts emergency housing while need increases

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    The National Government has cut $1 billion from the emergency housing budget on the false pretence that demand is reducing, while also ending contracted emergency housing from December this year.

    “The Government promised New Zealanders that those in genuine need would get access to emergency housing but the Budget shows they simply have no intention of providing it,” Labour housing spokesperson Kieran McAnulty said.

    “The Government is trying to kid the country in to thinking that this is an area they can save money because the need isn’t there.

    “It is a lie, borne out of the need to fill gaps in the Budget.

    “Homelessness is increasing at unprecedented levels and frontline providers say things have never been so bad. Before this budget, homelessness had already grown by 40 percent in Wellington. Lord knows how high it is projected to grow, and how fast because of this budget.

    “New Zealanders need to ask themselves a pretty simple question – do they trust the Government who need to make cuts to make their budget add up, or frontline providers who are seeing homelessness increase every day?

    “Ending contracts without a clear alternative for where people will go is a disgrace. Housing is a human right.

    “Make no mistake – families will be living on the street because of this decision today,” Kieran McAnulty said.

    Stay in the loop by signing up to our mailing list and following us on Facebook, Instagram, and X. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Army Birthday Media Resources

    Source: United States Army

    By Army Media RelationsMay 22, 2025

    1 / 2 Show Caption + Hide Caption – (Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL
    2 / 2 Show Caption + Hide Caption – (Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

    “This We’ll Defend” has been our Army’s motto since the Revolutionary War. It reminds us that our purpose is timeless and clear: to fight and win our nation’s wars. As we celebrate the 250th birthday of the United States Army, we reflect on the rich history and legacy of service, sacrifice and dedication.

    These cleared-for-publication materials are intended to support the media, content creators and community partners in amplifying the Army’s enduring impact and inspiring future generations. If you need help finding specific information that is not covered here, please send an email to OCPA with “Birthday” in the subject line.

    For information about the birthday festival on the National Mall or the parade, contact: OCPA Media Relations Division Press Desk <usarmy.pentagon.hqda-ocpa.mbx.mrd-press-desk@army.mil>

    To assist media and friends of the Army with questions about the U.S. Army’s 250th Birthday coverage, please find below data sheets and information.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Government Watchdog Concludes Trump is Illegally Impounding Funding—Senator Murray Responds

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, issued the following statement on the Government Accountability Office’s (GAO) decision released this morning, which concludes that President Trump is illegally impounding funding approved by Congress in violation of the Impoundment Control Act (ICA):

    “This legal decision affirms what we’ve long known: the President is breaking the law to block funding Congress passed on a bipartisan basis and that is owed to the American people—simply because he disagrees with it. This plain fact is unacceptable—and it cannot stand any longer.

    “Congress passed the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law by wide margins and specifically provided funding for every state to build out a network of chargers for the electric vehicles that families are increasingly turning to and that are being made right here in America. These investments should be getting out the door—creating new jobs and helping Americans get where they need to go without interruption—but President Trump has illegally choked this funding off.

    “These bipartisan investments need to start flowing immediately—as do the hundreds of billions of dollars in other investments President Trump is holding up. I don’t care about Russ Vought’s personal interpretation of our spending laws; the Constitution is clear, and President Trump simply does not have the power of the purse—Congress does.”

    Presidents do not wield the power to unilaterally withhold or block investments that have been enacted into law through what’s known as “impoundment.” This foundational principal has been affirmed time and again. The Impoundment Control Act (ICA) of 1974 makes this plain and establishes limited procedures the president can and must follow to propose delaying or rescinding enacted funding—procedures Trump has not sought to use.

    The Impoundment Control Act also charges the GAO with the responsibility to investigate and report to Congress when the president illegally withholds funding—as it has done today. In recent testimony to the Committee, the GAO acknowledged that it has opened 39 impoundment investigations and counting. Today’s announcement marks its first decision in one of those investigations. The ICA also authorizes the Comptroller General to file suit when the president illegally impounds funding.

    Since his first hours in office, President Trump has illegally blocked funding owed to communities across the country through a variety of different means. Senate and House Appropriations Committee Democrats have been tracking Trump’s illegal funding freeze and found that, as of April 29th, President Trump is blocking at least $430 billion in funding owed to the American people. More information is available HERE.

    In today’s decision, the GAO concluded the Department of Transportation (DOT) violated the Impoundment Control Act when it delayed expenditures for the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program that were required by law to be spent. Its decision states in part: “DOT is not authorized under the ICA to withhold these funds from expenditure and must continue to carry out the statutory requirements of the program. If DOT wishes to make changes to the obligation and expenditure of funds appropriated under the NEVI Formula Program, it must propose funds for rescission or otherwise propose legislation to make changes to the law for consideration by Congress. …. DOT’s withholding of NEVI Formula Program funds violates the ICA.”

    The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provided $5 billion in funding from fiscal year 2022 through 2026 for NEVI. The program provides funding to states to strategically create an electric vehicle (EV) charging network, which is critical to meeting new demand from American consumers. A 2024 study projected the U.S. would need 182,000 direct current fast chargers to accommodate the growing EV market—nearly triple the current capacity of just over 55,000. But President Trump has blocked all new obligations of funding for the program—blocking states from using these investments and hurting communities across America.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murray Leads Entire WA Delegation in Letter Urging President Trump to Reconsider Denial of WA State’s Request for a Disaster Declaration for November “Bomb Cyclone”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    Severe storms resulted in extensive damage to critical infrastructure, parks, cultural sites, schools, public buildings, and more, resulting in over $34 million dollars in damages across six counties

    Letter comes following denial of initial request, WA delegation urges President Trump to reconsider and approve WA state’s pending appeal

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, led Washington state’s entire Congressional delegation—U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and U.S. Representatives Suzan DelBene (D, WA-01), Rick Larsen (D, WA-02), Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D, WA-03), Dan Newhouse, (R, WA-04), Michael Baumgartner (R, WA-05), Emily Randall (D, WA-06), Pramila Jayapal (D, WA-07), Kim Schrier (D, WA-08), Adam Smith (D, WA-09), and Marilyn Strickland (D, WA-10)—in sending a letter last night to President Donald Trump urging him to reconsider the denial of Washington state’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration as a result of the devastating windstorms, heavy rainfall, flooding, and mudslides caused by a bomb cyclone that struck Washington state in November 2024.

    “As representatives of Washington state, we earnestly request that you carefully reconsider this decision and approve the state’s pending appeal without further delay,” the bipartisan, bicameral group of Members wrote.

    “From Grays Harbor, Pacific and Wahkiakum to King, Snohomish, and Walla Walla Counties, the storm’s impact was severe, far-reaching and well-documented. One of the most destructive storms in recent history, it overwhelmed public infrastructure, endangered lives, and left residents across the state grappling with long-term consequences. This is precisely the kind of catastrophic event for which the federal declaration process was designed. The state’s request outlines over $34 million in damages across these six counties—costs that local governments cannot and should not be expected to shoulder alone,” the Members wrote.

    “Disaster declarations are not symbolic, they are critical lifelines for communities in crisis. Washington state’s first responders, local governments, and emergency management professionals have done everything within their means to begin recovery, but the scale of the damage requires federal support through the Public Assistance Program and the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. Anything less unnecessarily places our communities, infrastructure and long-term stability at an unacceptable risk.”

    “We remain committed to working with you to secure the support our constituents urgently need,” the Members concluded.

    Previously, the full group of Members—led by Senator Murray—urged President Biden to grant the request for a Major Disaster Declaration in January.

    The full text of the letter is available HERE and below.

    Dear Mr. President:

    We are writing to express our serious disappointment and growing concern regarding the denial of Washington state’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration following the devastating bomb cyclone that struck between November 17 and November 25, 2024. As representatives of Washington state, we earnestly request that you carefully reconsider this decision and approve the state’s pending appeal without further delay.

    From Grays Harbor, Pacific and Wahkiakum to King, Snohomish, and Walla Walla Counties, the storm’s impact was severe, far-reaching and well-documented. One of the most destructive storms in recent history, it overwhelmed public infrastructure, endangered lives, and left residents across the state grappling with long-term consequences. This is precisely the kind of catastrophic event for which the federal declaration process was designed. The state’s request outlines over $34 million in damages across these six counties—costs that local governments cannot and should not be expected to shoulder alone.

    Disaster declarations are not symbolic, they are critical lifelines for communities in crisis. Washington state’s first responders, local governments, and emergency management professionals have done everything within their means to begin recovery, but the scale of the damage requires federal support through the Public Assistance Program and the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. Anything less unnecessarily places our communities, infrastructure and long-term stability at an unacceptable risk.

    Thank you for your attention to this matter. We remain committed to working with you to secure the support our constituents urgently need.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murray Presses FDA Commissioner on Senseless and Inefficient Mass Firings, Conflicts of Interest at FDA & Trump Admin Laying the Groundwork to Rip Away Mifepristone

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    ICYMI: Murray Grills Trump’s FDA Nominee on Cancellation of Critical Vaccine Meeting, Upholding Science on Mifepristone, Contraception

    ***WATCH: Senator Murray Q&A with Commissioner Makary***

    Washington, D.C. — Today, at a Senate Appropriations Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies (Ag-FDA) Subcommittee hearing on the fiscal year 2026 budget request for the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee and a senior member and former Chair of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, grilled FDA Commissioner Marty Makary on the Trump administration’s reckless and chaotic efforts to fire thousands of critical employees at the FDA, conflicts of interest at the agency, and the Trump administration’s attempts to lay the groundwork to rip away access to mifepristone based on discredited junk science from anti-abortion activists.

    In opening comments, Vice Chair Murray said:

    “Commissioner Makary, the FDA has a really important job to do. Lives literally are at stake. And that work requires the utmost diligence, and care, and commitment to following the science and upholding FDA’s gold standard. We all expect to walk into the drugstore and know that what we are buying has passed a safety and efficacy standard. And we have to be assured of that, and we have to be assured that the work’s been done—that we don’t have to question that.  

    “So, I don’t think it’s careful leadership when one-in-five people across the FDA are fired, only to frantically then bring some back—because you didn’t stop and think two seconds about whether these jobs were actually important.

    “We really, Mr. Chairman, cannot cheap out on the FDA, and expect to maintain the gold standard that means that people know that drugs are safe.

    “We can’t just cut, cut, cut and hope no one gets sick when you’re slow to issue a recall, or hope no one needs that medicine that had its approval delayed, or hope there isn’t another infant formula issue while your staff are getting fired, or getting rehired, or wherever they are.

    “This work really takes investments, this Committee knows that, and it expects expert staff—like the people that have been shoved out the door. Drug approvals are already getting delayed. Food and drug safety inspections are lagging behind.

    “We are going in the wrong direction, fast. We still have yet to see from you a full budget request from you. That is unacceptable.

    “You are now testifying that the budget proposes to slash FDA by more than 11 percent. That’s actually news to all of us—and I will tell you right now, that is not going to fly. It is reckless, and it is not going to happen as long as I have anything to say about it.”

    [FDA STAFFING]

    Senator Murray began her questioning by pressing Dr. Makary on the harm and inefficacy caused by the Trump administration’s mass layoffs and efforts to push out qualified employees across FDA, which have resulted in more than 4,000 staff leaving the agency since the beginning of the Trump administration. “Commissioner Makary, when it comes to your mass firing of FDA employees, in April, you said, ‘I can tell you there were no cuts to scientists or inspectors.’ Well that is not true,” Senator Murray said. “I think Senator Ossoff covered that, and I think the point here is that all of this firing and rehiring—I don’t see how that’s efficient. Frankly, it kind of shows that you don’t know what you’re doing—and you’re breaking things in the process here. So, let me ask you a question, and hopefully it is an easy one for you. Does it save taxpayer dollars to fire staff who work in centers that are fully funded by user fees—not taxpayer dollars—yes or no?”

    “You asked me to do an assessment of the staff when I came here for my confirmation hearing, and I hear that you’re criticizing me for bringing back some individuals after the cuts that I was not a part of,” replied Commissioner Makary.

    “That’s good—I’m just saying in the long run, this has been very inefficient,” Senator Murray replied. “But my question to you is not about that it, and I know you’ve covered it with several other members. So does it save taxpayer dollars to fire staff who work with centers that are fully funded by user fees, not taxpayer dollars. Is that efficient?”

    “The cuts were to HR, IT, communications—,” Commissioner Makary said.

    Senator Murray pressed, “They’re funded by user fees, it is not saving any money.”

    “In part,” Commissioner Markey interjected.

    “But many of the staff you fired were in centers that are actually fully funded by user fees. You know that, correct?” Senator Murray clarified.

    Commissioner Makary continued to dodge.

    “I’m asking you a specific question about the centers that are fully funded by user fees,” Senator Murray continued.

    “That’s one center. That’s the tobacco center,” Commissioner Makary said. “You just said we can’t just keep cut and cut—we can’t keep hiring and hiring, the agency doubled since 2007. So, let me ask you, what is the right number of employees?”

    “No, you’re here to answer my questions here, and I’m going to ask some more,” Senator Murray replied. “Without critical support staff you fired, inspectors cannot plan their trips. They cannot do their jobs. I want to ask you, what percent of planned inspections has FDA missed since those April 1st firings?”

    Commissioner Makary said, “In the 12 labs that we have that evaluate food products in the food inspection realm, there are no—as of last week, I just did a check—there are no backlogs. They are running at 100 percent efficiency. There are no drug approval delays despite the—you know, what people want to attribute—”

    “That is not what I’ve been told. I have been told—and I would like you to go back and check and report back to us, because we know that some of the planned inspections… that were supposed to take place have been missed. And, to me, why that’s so important, if there is not inspections, the public doesn’t have the information that they need. I am going to run out of time, so I want to move on,” Senator Murray replied.

    “There are no cuts to inspectors,” Commissioner Makary said.

    “Will you go back and check for me, please?” asked Senator Murray.

    “Absolutely,” replied Commissioner Makary.

    [CONFLICTS OF INTEREST]

    Senator Murray continued by asking about reports of eyebrow-raising conflicts of interest at FDA: “I understand that the FOIA staff producing documents related to ongoing litigation by the Children’s Health Defense—Secretary Kennedy’s organization—was shielded from the RIFs, while other FOIA staff are responsible for FOIA responses at other FDA centers were targeted for termination. Is that true?,” Murray asked.

    “That’s not true, senator, we have our FOIA staff. They continue to work at the FDA. I’ve made sure that all the FOIA staff at the FDA are doing their job. We are also using AI to reduce the burden on that staff,” responded Commissioner Makary.

    Senator Murray pressed, “Well for the record, my understanding is that the Children’s Health Defense FOIA staff were not fired when other ones were… And that seems like a real conflict of interest to me, considering that the Secretary’s extensive history with that organization, Children’s Health Defense, and his goal to remove authorizations for vaccines. So, I just want that on the record—”

    “It’s not true. Well, all FOIA staff are in place,” Commissioner Makary continued to claim.

    [MIFEPRISTONE]

    Senator Murray moved on to her next question, pressing Commissioner Makary on the Trump administration’s attempts to lay the groundwork to restrict access to medication abortion based on junk science being pushed by anti-abortion extremists. Murray asked: “If a study came out saying that people who took a certain medication experience a certain rate of ‘serious adverse events,’ but the study’s authors refused to say what they were counting as an adverse event—would raise some serious questions about the study’s validity?”

    “Yes, senator. So I have the natural inquisition of a scientist that’s done a lot of research. So, I would want to see the underlying data, yes,” replied Commissioner Makary.

    “I am, of course, talking about the recent sham ‘study’ from the Ethics and Public Policy Center—it’s an anti-abortion group, it’s bank-rolled by extremists, they fought to overturn Roe v. Wade,” Murray said. “And this ‘study,’ if you can call it that, is unsound and has been widely panned by medical experts. But, days after its release, you and Secretary Kennedy are now suggesting we need a ‘complete review’ on the safety of mifepristone.”

    “Now, to be clear: mifepristone has been proven safe and effective in more than 100 studies over three decades. And the people that are now pushing that bogus ‘study’ and saying mifepristone is dangerous for women are the exact same people who think that abortion is never necessary to save a woman’s life, and that 10-year-olds should somehow be forced into childbirth. I believe that this administration is laying the groundwork to rip away access to medication abortion across the country,” Murray said. “This has not gotten enough attention. And I know you’d prefer to keep it that way, but I want you to know: I’m not going to let that happen.”

    “I have not seen that study, Senator, and you have not seen that study. So how can you call it a sham, bogus study? Neither of us have seen the study, the underlying data, or the methodology,” Commissioner Makary said.

    “Actually, that’s not true,” Murray replied. The Ethics and Public Policy Center is an anti-abortion advocacy group that was an advisory board member for Project 2025, has submitted amicus briefs to the Supreme Court opposing mifepristone, and does not believe in life-saving abortions—putting them far outside the medical mainstream. As the Washington Post fact-check of the ‘study’ points out, unlike most credible medical studies, the Ethics and Public Policy Center report did not undergo a formal external peer review before publication and “moreover, the report oddly does not reveal the database it used”—making it impossible for anyone to view the underlying data. That hasn’t stopped the anti-abortion Ethics and Public Policy Center from launching an activist campaign around the release of the data and even admitting the goal was to “eliminate” abortion pills.

    On May 14th in a HELP Committee hearing with Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy (RFK) Jr. Senator Josh Hawley (R-MO) secured a commitment from Secretary Kennedy that HHS and FDA would review what RFK Jr. referred to as “alarming” new data on mifepristone—referencing the EPCC study alone. “It’s alarming, and it indicates that at the very least, the label should be changed,” Secretary Kennedy said. “I’ve asked Marty Makary at the FDA to do a complete review and report back.” Senator Hawley secured the same commitment from President Trump’s nominee to serve as Deputy Secretary of Health and Human Services in a HELP Committee hearing on May 8th—again, based solely on the EPCC ‘study’ that has not been peer-reviewed or published in a medical journal and has attracted widespread scrutiny for appearing to dramatically overstate what it characterizes as “serious adverse effects” associated with the pill.

    ____________________________________

    As a longtime appropriator and former Chair of the Senate HELP Committee, Senator Murray has a long history of demanding accountability and careful oversight when it comes to the safety of products families use every day. At the end of 2022, Senator Murray passed legislation giving FDA new authority to, for the first time ever, regulate the safety of cosmetic products and force a recall when necessary—and she successfully fought to secure funding for this important work last year as Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee. Senator Murray has also previously pressed FDA and industry for answers and action regarding asbestos in children’s make up kits, demanded answers from Johnson & Johnson regarding asbestos found in baby powder, and was a leading voice in holding FDA accountable and pushing for solutions following the infant formula contamination and shortage crisis in 2022.

    Senator Murray leads the Democratic caucus on reproductive health care and, throughout her career, has beat back countless Republican attempts to defund Planned Parenthood and other family planning services—and is widely credited with successfully pushing the Bush administration’s FDA to follow the science and make Plan B available over the counter. Senator Murray led the response in Congress to FDA v. Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine, a lawsuit brought by Republican anti-abortion extremists trying to rip away access to mifepristone, a safe and effective abortion medication that was approved by FDA in 2000—Murray led multiple amicus briefs, organized her colleagues, and raised the alarm at every turn. Last June, the Supreme Court dismissed the case on standing groups but Murray made clear that “the nationwide threat to medication abortion has not gone away—far from it. If Donald Trump and his anti-abortion allies return to power, they will do everything they can to rip away access to mifepristone and ban abortion nationwide.” Murray also spearheaded efforts in Congress urging the FDA to follow the science and review the application of Opill, the first over-the-counter birth control pill, after the FDA’s Advisory Committee voted unanimously to recommend FDA approval.

    In March, at Dr. Makary’s nomination hearing before the Senate HELP Committee, Senator Murray pressed Dr. Makary to commit to upholding the science on mifepristone and contraception—he refused to definitively answer her question.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Votes to Overturn Biden EV Mandate

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) today issued the following statement after voting to overturn the Biden administration’s approval of California’s Advanced Clean Cars II (ACC II) regulation, which mandates 100% electric vehicle (EV) sales by 2035 and effectively bans traditional gas-powered vehicles.
    “Forcing anybody buying a new car to buy an electric vehicle by 2035 is stupid. Nobody wants government telling them what car to drive. This rule is dead—good riddance,” said Dr. Cassidy. 
    In the final days of the Biden-Harris administration, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved California’s request to mandate zero-emission vehicle sales by 2035, setting a national precedent. Under the Clean Air Act, California’s EV mandate has been adopted by over a dozen states, affecting more than 30% of the national auto market.
    In March, Cassidy introduced the Choice in Automobile Retail Sales (CARS) Act to reverse the Biden administration’s aggressive emissions standards and protect consumers’ rights to affordable, reliable vehicles. Additionally, Cassidy co-sponsored the Eliminating Lavish Incentives to Electric (ELITE) Vehicles Act to repeal costly federal subsidies for electric vehicles and related infrastructure. He also introduced legislation under the Congressional Review Act to block other Biden administration EV mandates imposed on American families last year.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Delivers Floor Speech Calling for Affordable Flood Insurance Ahead of Hurricane Season

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy

    [embedded content]

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) delivered a speech on the U.S. Senate floor highlighting the need for the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) to remain affordable and the danger that Risk Rating 2.0 poses to low- and middle-income families’ ability to be enrolled in the program.
    “With Risk Rating 2.0 driving up costs for low- and middle-income families, about a fifth of those enrolled in NFIP will be forced to drop their coverage altogether over the next ten years,” said Dr. Cassidy.
    “If we really want to put Americans first, we start by making NFIP affordable now and keeping it affordable 10, 15 years from now,” continued Dr. Cassidy. 
    Background
    In April, Cassidy delivered a speech on the Senate floor calling for the continuation of FEMA’s Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) grant program, which helps fund pre-disaster mitigation and flood prevention projects in Louisiana and nationwide.
    In March, Cassidy delivered a floor speech calling for a long-term extension of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and introduced legislation to extend the program through December 31, 2026. Cassidy also met with the Jefferson Business Council where he discussed his efforts to keep flood insurance affordable and extend NFIP long-term.
    In February, Cassidy introduced the Flood Insurance Affordability Tax Credit Act to give low- and middle-income households enrolled in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) a 33% refundable tax credit to combat rising flood insurance premiums. Cassidy released a report last fall outlining the current state of the NFIP and the issues that have led to skyrocketing premiums for millions of homeowners.
    Last year, the U.S. Senate Banking Committee held a hearing on NFIP at the request of Cassidy. The hearing highlighted the urgent need for Congress to act and featured a Louisiana witness. Cassidy also participated in a roundtable hosted by GNO, Inc. and the Coalition for Sustainable Flood Insurance to hear from community leaders and advocates on the issue.
    Cassidy traveled St. Bernard Parish in 2023 to talk with residents about their flood insurance premiums, recording the second episode of his Bill on the Hill series.
    Cassidy’s remarks as prepared for delivery are below:
    Mr. President,
    Folks in Louisiana are preparing for hurricane season.
    I just had a meeting with the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury who sent me some photos of a few Lake Charles homes.
    To reduce flood risk and their monthly flood insurance premiums, people are paying to have their houses raised.
    That costs anywhere between 25,000 and 40,000 dollars.
    If your foundation needs repairs, you’re looking at up to 25,000 dollars in additional costs.
    A full replacement of the foundation can cost 100,000 dollars.
    It seems like a worthwhile investment.
    Lifting your home lowers your risk of flooding and insurance premiums go down, saving you money in the long run.
    But unfortunately, that is not the experience people in Louisiana are having under Risk Rating 2.0—FEMA’s current risk assessment program.
    Here are just two instances in Calcasieu Parish in which homeowners invested in flood mitigation to lower their flood insurance premiums.
    These people did everything right!
    They did what they were supposed to!
    These people are not going to flood. And yet, after Risk Rating 2.0, this is what happened to their premiums!
    You’d feel like you got ripped off if that happened to you.
    One pre-mitigation premium nearly doubled.
    This is bad news for all Americans, particularly lower-income families.
    When the number of families getting a bill like this goes up, the number of people able to afford flood insurance at all goes down.
    With Risk Rating 2.0 driving up costs for low- and middle-income families, about a fifth of those enrolled in NFIP will be forced to drop their coverage altogether over the next ten years.
    The pool of policyholders shrinking at this rate will force the program into what’s called an actuarial death spiral.
    Risk Rating 2.0 is like termites eating away at the foundation of a house.
    If we do nothing, it’s going to collapse.
    I introduced legislation back in February to give low- and middle-income households enrolled in NFIP a 33% reduction in their NFIP premium in the form of a refundable tax credit that would go directly to their premium payment at the time it’s due. 
    Hurricane season will not wait on those who need flood insurance to get it. Americans in my state and across the country need relief now.
    If we really want to put Americans first, we start by making NFIP affordable now and keeping it affordable 10, 15 years from now.
    The issue is a pocketbook issue for many families, but when you flood like so many in Louisiana have, it becomes a personal issue—an issue of loss.
    Since the start of 2025, at least 21 Americans across 8 states have been killed as a result of flooding and storms hitting their communities.
    Millions have been without power or evacuated from their homes.
    When you hear “flood insurance” you might think, “Well I don’t live in a coastal state like Louisiana, for example. My house won’t get destroyed by a flood. I don’t need flood insurance!”
    I wish that were true.
    States hit the hardest aren’t the only states hit.
    This is not a one-state problem.
    This is a one-nation problem.
    All fifty states have NFIP policyholders.
    And there are many who don’t have flood insurance who, unfortunately, wish they did.
    When more rain comes—and it will—all Americans need stability.
    The National Flood Insurance Program can provide that certainty.
    Maybe you won’t see flooding as extreme as losing your house—I hope you don’t.
    But I’m not just talking about the worst-case scenario.
    Let’s say you get a couple of inches of water in your living room.
    You’ve got to pull up your carpets and replace the drywall. You’re going to wish you had flood insurance.
    And you probably would if it were affordable.
    The National Flood Insurance Program, often the only flood insurance option for many communities, is broken.
    Right now, the very program designed to help Americans is failing them.
    And when millions of Americans are impacted, Washington must act.
    Let me be very clear: NFIP is a federal program—meaning we can change and improve it. We just need to have the will.
    I urge my colleagues to join me in working with President Trump’s Administration to end Risk Rating 2.0.
    In 2019, my office worked with the Trump administration to successfully delay Risk Rating 2.0 because of the lack of transparency on how FEMA was calculating rates.
    President Trump understood then and understands now that Americans are tired of being ripped off.
    When rivers swell, Americans should not have to fear the cost of rebuilding without insurance.
    Let’s make NFIP affordable for the homeowner, accountable to the taxpayer, and sustainable for future generations.
    Severe weather is relentless. We must be too.
    With that, I yield.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: More Supercars for New Zealand

    Source: Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment MBIE (2)

    Published: 23 May 2025

    The Government is investing $5.9 million from the Major Events Fund to support Supercars events in both Taupō and Christchurch for the next 3 years.

    On this page

    The 2024 Taupō Supercars generated significant economic and tourism benefits for the region and New Zealand with more than 3,300 international visitors attending and spending more than $5.2 million while here. 

    Having consecutive events in Taupō and Christchurch will allow international visitors to extend their stay in New Zealand, supporting tourism in our regions.

    More information about Supercars:

    2025 Repco Supercars Championship | Supercars(external link)

    Read the Beehive press release:

    Supercars for the South Island(external link) — Beehive.govt.nz

    Last updated: 23 May 2025

    https://www.mbie.govt.nz/about/news/more-supercars-for-new-zealand
    Please note: This content will change over time and can go out of date.

    Crown copyright © 2025

    https://www.mbie.govt.nz/about/news/more-supercars-for-new-zealand
    Please note: This content will change over time and can go out of date.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: City centre opens up for more homes and jobs

    Source: Secondary teachers question rationale for changes to relationship education guidelines

    Taller buildings and increased development capacity are on the way for Auckland’s city centre, following Auckland Council’s decision to accept recommendations that will help deliver more homes, more businesses, and better access to the heart of Tāmaki Makaurau.  

    The decision was made by Auckland Council’s Policy and Planning Committee, which accepted in full a set of recommendations from the Independent Hearings Panel (IHP), an expert body established to hear public submissions and evidence on Plan Change 78. The IHP recommendations were based on extensive public input, expert evidence, and hearings.

    “As a city resident, I’m pleased plans to increase density to allow more growth in the central city under Plan Change 78 are now done and dusted. When I look at the swathes of people coming in and out of the city to work every day, this makes a lot of sense. It is also one of three growth areas highlighted in my manifesto”, says Mayor Wayne Brown.  

    Unlocking long-term capacity

    Chair of the committee, Councillor Richard Hills, says unlocking this amount of development capacity in the city centre makes room for well over four times the number of homes and businesses we have today. This enables around a 300 per cent increase in floor space. 

    “This is a positive step forward giving more people the chance to live, work, and study close to major transport, shops, and services, future-proofing our city for the people who live here now and the ones still to come. 

    “Our city centre is already one of Auckland’s fastest-growing residential areas and our largest employment hub. It supports around 159,000 workers and 15,500 businesses, contributing approximately 20 per cent of Auckland’s total GDP and around 8 per cent of New Zealand’s. 

    “Our decision today, will help create a more vibrant, bustling and lively city centre — one that’s alive with people, jobs, culture, and opportunity — like you see in successful cities around the world.” 

    “It also supports our investment in the City Rail Link and other city centre upgrades which is also helping to attract $6 billion of private-sector investment. This further strengthens the city centre’s role as a hub for jobs, housing, retail, hospitality, culture and community.” 

    What the changes involve

    Most of the changes the council publicly notified in Plan Change 78 were backed by the IHP with only a few minor differences, which advances the council’s overall growth strategy for the area. 

    Key changes include increasing building heights across much of the city centre and removing limits on floor areas to allow for a wider variety of building sizes and types. These changes are central to the council’s plan for more quality homes, businesses and services in the heart of Auckland and supporting a liveable, dynamic and attractive city centre. 

    18 midtown developments – recent, underway and planned – within 5 minutes’ walk of 3 Te Waihorotiu Station entrances. Station entrances shown in blue on map.

    What’s next for Auckland’s growth plan? 

    With the council’s decisions now made, they will be notified by 30 May 2025. Once notified they will be included in the Auckland Unitary Plan and are expected to become operative in June 2025. 

    Outside of the city centre, Auckland Council is working on a new plan change that will deal with two of the biggest challenges we face in our region – strengthening rules to better protect people from natural hazards such as flooding and enabling more housing in the right places, especially near large centres and transport hubs. On its own the legislation that underpins Plan Change 78 does not let us tackle the challenges that floods pose or consider the government’s proposal to opt out of the MDRS. 

    For this work to proceed, a change in legislation is required to allow the council to withdraw the remainder of Plan Change 78, except for the city centre decisions made today, which is being considered as part of the government’s RMA reforms. The council is currently working on an approach while we wait for central government to give the go ahead. 

    Key Changes

    • Maximum building heights have significantly increased within the City Centre Zone. In many areas, including along the western edge, height limits will increase from 30 metres to 72.5 metres, roughly 20+ storeys. In the core of the city centre there will be unlimited height (subject controls to protect sunlight access to key parks and open space, significant views of the harbour and maunga, and historic heritage). 

    • The council’s changes in the publicly notified Plan Change 78 allowed for four times more development capacity in the city centre over what currently exists. The IHP has made further changes to allow for even more capacity. 

    • Modelling is underway to calculate the differences between the notified capacity and the further increases made by the council’s decision today. 

    • Floor Area Ratios — planning rules that limit how much total floor space can be built on a site — have been removed. This will allow far more flexible building designs for commercial and residential use and allows for more efficient land use, as long as buildings meet other adaptable urban design rules.

    • The western edge of Karangahape Road will increase heights from 15 metres to between 35 and 72.5 metres, depending on the building type, allowing more development in a walkable, well-connected area near rapid transit. This does not affect historic heritage protections for Karangahape Road currently in place.

    • The council accepted IHP recommendations to slightly reduce the Karangahape Road Precinct by removing a small block that includes 538 and 582 Karangahape Road. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Parliament Hansard Report – Taxation (Budget Measures) Bill (No 2) — In Committee—Part 1 – 001481

    Source: Govt’s austerity Budget to cause real harm in communities

    Hon SIMON WATTS (Minister of Revenue): Thank you very much, Madam Chair. Look, a very good morning, everyone. Welcome back to the growth Budget, and what a great Budget it is. I don’t mind doing a basic lesson in what depreciation is for the member because, in effect, what we are doing is increasing the rate at which people can claim a tax deduction, increasing it in the first year and the balance will be claimed for the rest of the asset life. This is a timing difference; we are bringing forward that ability to claim that tax deduction. We’re not creating some new world or new paradigm of other aspect. We are simply moving that benefit forward so that New Zealand businesses can achieve a tax deduction—from yesterday—and get the benefit of that in terms of less tax this year.

    That is a significant investment and opportunity for them as a business. But it in no way has any impact on what would be a normal rate of depreciation on any economic asset over the life of that asset. So the whole premise of the question is uninformed and without basis. Our policy is very much focused on delivering that economic growth. And heck, I mean, I guess some people in the House are concerned about too much economic growth. But on this side of the House, we think a little bit differently. We sort of think economic growth is a good thing. It sort of helps us with a range of factors including higher paid jobs, better standard of living, and more tax revenue flows.

    CHAIRPERSON (Barbara Kuriger): That’s true, but that’s not what the member asked the Minister, thank you.

    Hon SIMON WATTS: Well, the member asked about the risks in regards to the policy and I have clarified that it is a depreciation policy which is well articulated in accounting standards.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Parliament Hansard Report – Thursday, 22 May 2025 (continued on Friday, 23 May 2025) – Volume 784 – 001482

    Source: Govt’s austerity Budget to cause real harm in communities

    Hon SIMON WATTS (Minister of Revenue): Thank you very much, Madam Chair. Look, a very good morning, everyone. Welcome back to the growth Budget, and what a great Budget it is. I don’t mind doing a basic lesson in what depreciation is for the member because, in effect, what we are doing is increasing the rate at which people can claim a tax deduction, increasing it in the first year and the balance will be claimed for the rest of the asset life. This is a timing difference; we are bringing forward that ability to claim that tax deduction. We’re not creating some new world or new paradigm of other aspect. We are simply moving that benefit forward so that New Zealand businesses can achieve a tax deduction—from yesterday—and get the benefit of that in terms of less tax this year.

    That is a significant investment and opportunity for them as a business. But it in no way has any impact on what would be a normal rate of depreciation on any economic asset over the life of that asset. So the whole premise of the question is uninformed and without basis. Our policy is very much focused on delivering that economic growth. And heck, I mean, I guess some people in the House are concerned about too much economic growth. But on this side of the House, we think a little bit differently. We sort of think economic growth is a good thing. It sort of helps us with a range of factors including higher paid jobs, better standard of living, and more tax revenue flows.

    CHAIRPERSON (Barbara Kuriger): That’s true, but that’s not what the member asked the Minister, thank you.

    Hon SIMON WATTS: Well, the member asked about the risks in regards to the policy and I have clarified that it is a depreciation policy which is well articulated in accounting standards.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police shut down drug operations across Kumeū

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Police have uprooted several illicit drug operations nestled amongst the community in Northwest Auckland.

    In the past week, Police have recovered nearly 400 kilograms of cannabis, 40 grams of cocaine and made three arrests.

    Waitematā North Area Commander, Inspector Mike Rickards says local Police have been targeting large cannabis grow house operations run by Vietnamese organised criminal groups around the Kumeū area.

    Warrants were terminated yesterday, 21 May, and 16 May at two properties.

    “On Wednesday, our Kumeū and Helensville staff terminated a search warrant at a Station Road property where a sophisticated operation was uncovered.

    “At the property, we located 931 cannabis plants weighing 237 kilograms.”

    Police also located a vast amount of equipment used to manufacture.

    It followed a previous warrant last Friday at a nearby address, where two Vietnamese nationals were arrested.

    Inspector Rickards says Police located 130 cannabis plants weighting up to 155 kilograms.

    “Inside, we also seized a large amount of cash as well as high-end equipment used in the manufacturing of cannabis.”

    Cocaine was also located at the property.

    Two arrests were made, and a 27-year-old woman and a 32-year-old man have been remanded in custody on drugs offences.

    A third warrant was also conducted on 16 May, which resulted in a Head Hunters associate being arrested.

    “The Waitematā Gang Disruption Unit and members of the Offender Prevention Team attended,” Inspector Rickards

    “A 36-year-old man was arrested after he initially tried to dispose of illicit drugs at the address.”

    Police located 30 grams of cocaine as well as cannabis at the property.

    The man was arrested and has been charged with possession for supply of cocaine and cannabis.

    Inspector Rickards says Police are pleased with the outcome.

    “Our team’s operations over the past week have in no doubt disrupted the illegal operation and prevented harm in our community.

    “It will have had an impact on drug distribution across the Rodney area.

    “We’re really clear that we won’t tolerate this in our community, and we’ll continue to target these groups who are cashing in on their offending.”

    ENDS.

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI: Heritage Commerce Corp and Heritage Bank of Commerce Continue Board Leadership Succession

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN JOSE, Calif., May 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Heritage Commerce Corp (NASDAQ: HTBK) (“Heritage” or “Company”), parent company of Heritage Bank of Commerce (the “Bank”), a premier community business bank, today announces the appointment of Julianne Biagini-Komas as Chair of the Board of Directors (the “Board”), replacing Chairman Jack W. Conner who has assumed the role of Chair Emeritus and has indicated he intends to remain on the Board to provide a smooth and orderly transition through October 2025. Ms. Biagini-Komas, a Certified Public Accountant, has served as Vice Chair of the Board since October 2024, as a director since 2014 and as the Chair of the Audit Committee since 2020.

    “The Board and I are delighted to announce Julie’s key role in the Company’s leadership succession plans,” stated Mr. Conner, “Having worked with Julie for many years, I can think of no one better suited to guide the Board and our management team into the future. I am proud of what we have accomplished together, and I look forward to watching Heritage continue to thrive in the years ahead.”

    Ms. Biagini-Komas said, “The entire Board and executive team are immensely grateful for Jack’s experience and leadership for over 20 years. He has led us through tremendous growth, both organically and by acquisition, and through many business cycles. We are confident that he has positioned us well to take advantage of the broad skills and talents of our executives and directors, and I am personally thankful for his willingness to continue in a transitional role.”

    The Company also announced the retirement of Laura Roden from the Board at the conclusion of the Company’s Annual Meeting of the Shareholders this year.

    Of Ms. Roden, Robertson “Clay” Jones, President & CEO stated, “We are grateful for Laura’s 13 years of service as a director, and we congratulate her on a well-deserved retirement.” Ms. Roden expressed her continuing support and appreciation for the Board and the management team, stating, “It has been a privilege to serve with the outstanding team of astute and dedicated individuals on the Heritage Board. As a shareholder I look forward to applauding the Bank’s future successes.”

    Heritage Commerce Corp, a bank holding company established in October 1997, is the parent company of Heritage Bank of Commerce, established in 1994 and headquartered in San Jose, CA with full-service branches in Danville, Fremont, Gilroy, Hollister, Livermore, Los Altos, Los Gatos, Morgan Hill, Oakland, Palo Alto, Pleasanton, Redwood City, San Francisco, San Jose, San Mateo, San Rafael, and Walnut Creek. Heritage Bank of Commerce is an SBA Preferred Lender. Bay View Funding, a subsidiary of Heritage Bank of Commerce, is based in San Jose, CA and provides business-essential working capital factoring financing to various industries throughout the United States. For more information, please visit www.heritagecommercecorp.com. Statements and information presented on our website are not incorporated into and do not form a part of this press release or of any of our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

    Member FDIC

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    Certain matters set forth herein constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. Among these are statements about the Company’s current intentions and expectations relating to our succession plans for the Board of Directors. These statements reflect the Board’s current intentions and expectations based on currently available information and, as such, are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed in this release. These risks and uncertainties, some of which are beyond our control, include, but are not limited to, factors that affect the timing and effectiveness of the changes in leadership positions described in this release, such as our ability to attract, appropriately evaluate and retain directors having the desired qualifications and experience; our ability to manage the integration of new directors; our ability to address adequately the loss of the talents and experience of the retiring directors; the plans, intentions and decisions of our individual directors with respect to their continuing willingness and availability to serve; and our ability accurately to assess the financial impacts of the recruitment and retention process. Our forward-looking statements are not assurances that we will not deviate from the stated plans and expectations, particularly if changes occur in the economy or the banking environment in general, or in factors that are specific to one or more of our markets. A more comprehensive list of the factors that affect our business can be under Item 1A. “Risk Factors,” of our latest Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, and in our other subsequent filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Readers should consider those factors carefully in making investment decisions about our common stock.

    For additional information, email:
    InvestorRelations@herbank.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News 05/16/2025 Blackburn Leads Tennessee Delegation in Urging Air Force to Make McGhee Tyson ANG Base the Main Operating Base for KC-46 Aircraft

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)
    NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Governor Bill Lee (R-Tenn.), U.S. Senator Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), and the entire Tennessee delegation sent a letter to U.S. Department of the Air Force Secretary Troy E. Meink urging him to make the McGhee Tyson Air National Guard (ANG) Base outside of Knoxville, Tennessee, the seventh main operating base for the KC-46 Pegasus.
    McGhee Tyson ANG Base Would Be Cost-Effective Choice with Rapid Access to Key Operational Areas
    “Strategically located in East Tennessee, McGhee Tyson ANGB provides rapid access to key operational areas within the continental United States and abroad. The 134th Air Refueling Wing boasts six decades of air refueling experience which would ensure a smooth, cost-effective transition to the KC-46. McGhee Tyson features a newly completed 10,000-foot runway and a purpose-built hangar to support the KC-46 aircraft, along with favorable airspace, secure infrastructure, and strong partnerships with regional military installations.”
    Airmen of 134th Refueling Wing Exemplify Excellence and Valor
    “The Airmen of the 134th Air Refueling Wing exemplify sustained excellence which has been recognized through their receipt of 16 Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards. The wing’s culture was most recently showcased through the awarding of eleven Distinguished Flying Crosses for valorous action over Israel in 2024. This dedication makes McGhee Tyson ANGB an ideal location for long-term mission success. Selecting McGhee Tyson also ensures a proportional distribution of next-generation air refueling capability across the Air National Guard, and with its cost-effectiveness, proven experience, and operational readiness, it stands as the optimal choice for MOB 7 for the KC-46 and the U.S. Air Force.”

    Click here to download this photo of Senator Blackburn with Airmen of Tennessee’s 134th Air Refueling Wing.
     BACKGROUND
    The KC-46A Pegasus is the U.S. Air Force’s newest aerial refueling aircraft, designed to replace the KC-135 Stratotanker, which first entered service in 1957.
    KC-46A offers advanced boom and drogue refueling, secure communications, defensive systems, and support for cargo, passengers, and aeromedical evacuation. Its expanded range and modern systems enable the Air Force to meet mission demands in today’s complex global environment.
    McGhee Tyson ANG Base boasts over 68 years of volunteer excellence and service to the Air Force. The unit has received a remarkable 16 Air Force Outstanding Unit awards and is one of the most decorated air refueling units in Air Force history. 
    Securing KC-46 aircraft for McGhee Tyson ANG Base will preserve over 1,500 jobs and $203 million annually for decades to come. 
    CO-SIGNERS
    Governor Bill Lee (R-Tenn.), U.S. Senator Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), and U.S. Representatives Chuck Fleischmann (R-Tenn.), Mark Green (R-Tenn.), Diana Harshbarger (R-Tenn.), Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.), John Rose (R-Tenn.), Scott DesJarlais (R-Tenn.), Andy Ogles (R-Tenn.), David Kustoff (R-Tenn.), and Steve Cohen (D-Tenn.) joined Senator Blackburn in sending this letter.
    Click here to view the full letter.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News 05/20/2025 Blackburn, Moolenaar Call for Investigation Into Chinese EV Charging Startup

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and U.S. Representative. John Moolenaar (R-Mich.), Chairman of the House Select Committee on China, sent a letter to U.S. Department of Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and U.S. Department of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth urging an investigation into Autel Energy, a Chinese electric vehicle (EV) charging startup, and its connections to the Chinese Communist Party. Autel Energy represents a national security risk to the United States given its access to consumer data and critical grid infrastructure.
    Autel Energy Shares a Parent Company with Autel Robotics, a Company U.S. Government Recently Listed as National Security Concern
    “Autel Energy manufactures electric vehicle (EV) charging stations and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Autel Intelligent Transportation Corp.—the same parent company to Chinese drone maker Autel Robotics, which the U.S. government recently added to the Department of Commerce’s Entity List and the Chinese military companies list. We are concerned that Autel Energy’s products pose many of the same risks to U.S. economic and national security as those manufactured by Autel Robotics and its parent company, both of which are openly affiliated with the CCP and People’s Liberation Army.”
    Autel Energy Has Taken Steps to Hide Ties to Chinese-Controlled Parent Company
    “Autel Energy styles itself as Autel Intelligent Technology Corp. on its website but has otherwise taken steps to hide the company’s ties to its Chinese controlled parent corporation through new investments in the U.S., where affiliation with a strategic ally of the PRC is deliberately deemphasized. The company recently opened a new assembly facility in the United States and claims that it manufactures Build America, Buy America compliant products that are eligible for the federal government’s EV infrastructure support program. This follows the same playbook deployed by Autel Robotics, which previously advertised a ‘Made in USA’ drone for sale in American markets, targeted towards state and local governments, even though the drone utilized prohibited technology from ZTE and HiSilicon.”
    Blackburn, Moolenaar Push for Investigation into Autel Energy to Protect Consumer Data and National Security
    “And much like Autel Robotics, Autel Energy products have the capacity to access and collect significant sensitive consumer data that could be used for nefarious purposes. The company operates with few—if any—restrictions, even though the EV charging stations they manufacture, sell, and deploy in the U.S. can collect and transmit sensitive driver data generated by electric vehicles during a charging session. These products are also connected to critical electrical infrastructure, enhancing the risks posed to American economic and national security. For these reasons, we request that your agencies investigate whether Autel Energy meets the requirements for designation on the aforementioned lists.”
    Click here to read the full letter.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News 05/22/2025 VIDEO: Tennessee Artist Martina McBride Urges Congress to Pass Blackburn’s NO FAKES Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Privacy, Technology, and the Law, led a hearing examining the consequences of AI-generated deepfakes. During the hearing, Tennessee multi-platinum country music singer-songwriter, Martina McBride, called on Congress to pass Senator Blackburn’s NO FAKES Act to protect individuals and creators from digital replicas. Read more about this legislation here, and watch full video of the hearing here.

    Click here to download this photo of Martina McBride with Senators Blackburn, Coons, and Klobuchar, who co-authored the NO FAKES Act.  
    Blackburn: Deepfakes Pose Significant Threat to Livelihoods of All American Artists & Creators 
    Senator Blackburn: “Deepfakes cause tremendous harm, and today we’re going to examine those harms and the legislative solutions, including the NO FAKES Act that Senators Coons, Klobuchar, Tillis, and I have introduced… specifically to address these harms. First, these deepfakes pose significant harm to our content creators. From Music Row to Beale Street back over to the Smoky Mountains in Upper East Tennessee, Tennesseans have made their mark in the music world, and we’ve got one of those artists with us today. But the proliferation of these digital replicas created without the artists’ consent pose a real threat to their livelihoods and the livelihoods of all American artists and creators. The NO FAKES Act is a monumental step forward in protecting our creative community. It provides landmark protection of the voice and visual likenesses of all individuals and creators from the spread of these digital replicas that are created without their consent… All these content creators, our children, and all Americans deserve nothing less than our best efforts on this issue.”
    McBride Calls on Congress to Pass ‘Landmark’ NO FAKES Act to Provide a Roadmap for AI and Protect Creators’ ‘Most Personal Human Attributes’
    Martina McBride: “Today, my voice and likeness, along with so many others, are at risk… The NO FAKES Act would give each of us the ability to say when and how AI deepfakes of our voices and likenesses can be used. If someone doesn’t ask before posting a harmful deepfake, we could have it removed without jumping through unnecessary hoops or going to court. It gives every person the power to say ‘yes’ or ‘no’ about how their most personal human attributes are used. It supports AI technology by providing a roadmap for how these powerful tools can be developed in the right way, and it doesn’t stand in the way of protected uses like news, parodies, or criticism… I urge you to pass the bill now.” 
    Click here to download video of Senator Blackburn’s opening statement.
    Click here to download video of the full hearing.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo Joins Resolution Reaffirming U.S.-Canada Partnership

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo
    Washington, D.C.–The United States and Canada share three oceans and the world’s longest border.  About 400,000 people and more than $2.5 billion worth of goods and services move across the U.S.-Canada border each day.  The relationship between the two countries fosters one of the most significant bilateral trading relationships in the world.
    U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) joined U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota) and Angus King (I-Maine) in introducing a resolution to recognize the U.S.-Canada partnership and its shared interests in economics, energy, critical minerals and national security.
    “Canada is America’s top trading partner and one of our strongest allies,” said Crapo.  “The almost $1 trillion exchanged in trade between the U.S. and Canada in 2023 powers 8 million U.S. jobs and 2.4 million Canadian workers.  Our two nations are inextricably linked economically and strategically–sharing deep historical and cultural ties.  This resolution reiterates our firm commitment to bolster the long-term, mutual relationship with our Canadian neighbors far into the future.”
    Idaho exports more products to Canada than any other country.  According to the Idaho Department of Commerce, in 2023, Idaho exported $1.5 billion in goods to Canada—more than a quarter of which were food and agricultural products.  Additionally, Idaho imported $360 million worth of Canadian food and agriculture goods.  Idaho’s largest import/export industries include:
    Agriculture and food;
    Wood, paper, pulp and printing;
    Electrical equipment and machinery;
    Mineral products; and
    Chemicals, cosmetics and fertilizers.
    Cramer and King serve as co-chairmen of the bipartisan, bicameral American Canadian Economy and Security (ACES) Caucus, and Senator Crapo is a member.
    “Representing a Northern border state, I recognize the importance of the unique partnership between the United States and Canada,” said Cramer.  “Not only are our neighbors to the north crucial economic and national security partners, but they are literally our closest ally.  This resolution celebrates our closeness and is a testament to the enduring strength, friendship and importance of the U.S.-Canada alliance across the country and the globe.”
    “The United States and Canada have always been closely tied; we share our economies, cultures, military interests and more.  In fact, in Maine, even our next door neighbor lives right across the border,” said King.  “I continue to be proud of the work we have achieved under the American-Canadian Economy and Security (ACES) Caucus alongside my Senate Co-Chair Kevin Cramer, but know that the current situation presents many unfortunate challenges.  While I am excited to reintroduce this resolution to reaffirm our two nations’ commitment to one another, we must acknowledge the close ties between our countries to resolve and mitigate any potential disruptions to our intertwined interests.  As close trade partners and allies, I look forward to strengthening this close alliance to tackle these shared challenges and seize new opportunities.”  
    Among other provisions, the resolution recognizes the relationship between the United States and Canada is critical to promoting peace, expanding global economic opportunity and being prepared to respond to unforeseen events.  It also reaffirms the bilateral and international alliance between the two nations, which allows both countries to face common threats together and uphold common values, including democracy, human rights and the rule of law. 
    Additionally, the resolution emphasizes the shared defense and security commitments between the two nations, including the modernization of the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), joint border security initiatives, and cooperation in combating transnational threats such as illegal migration and fentanyl trafficking.
    The resolution is also co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tennessee), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Maggie Hassan (D-New Hampshire), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minnesota), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Mike Rounds (R-South Dakota) and Peter Welch (D-Vermont).  A similar resolution was introduced in the House by U.S. Representative Mark Amodei (R-Nevada).
    Click here for bill text.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján Calls Out House Republican Bill for Selling Off Spectrum to Benefit Billionaires Instead of Connecting Americans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the Telecommunications and Media Subcommittee, released the following statement on the House Republican bill that proposes auctioning off critical spectrum to fund tax handouts for the wealthiest Americans and corporate special interests, rather than investing in expanding broadband access:
    “Tucked into House Republicans’ massive giveaway for the wealthiest Americans is a plan to auction off 600 MHz of spectrum — bypassing the committee process, ignoring bipartisan concerns, and doing nothing to connect more Americans to affordable, reliable internet.
    “There is strong bipartisan concern about handing over this spectrum. Yet House Republicans are moving ahead at President Trump’s directive, prioritizing billionaires over the urgent need to invest in broadband access.”
    Senator Luján has built bipartisan support to use spectrum auction proceeds to expand broadband access. Last Congress, Senator Luján led a bipartisan amendment with Senators Daines, Welch, Vance, Rosen, and Wicker to use $9 billion of spectrum auction proceeds to fund critical communications infrastructure and affordability. The Senate Commerce Committee passed legislation to do the same. Democrats in the House and Senate worked to include this policy in the National Defense Authorization Act for 2025, authorizing $3.08 in spectrum auction proceed from the AWS-3 auction and fund the Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act, removing security vulnerabilities from critical infrastructure.
    Radio spectrum (“spectrum”) is the continuum of frequencies used to provide wireless services, such as radio broadcasting, mobile communications, and satellite services. Since Congress first authorized the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to auction spectrum in the 1990’s, the FCC has raised over $250 billion in revenue. As Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Media, Senator Luján has jurisdiction over the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) that conducts spectrum auction and the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) that is responsible for managing spectrum for federal agencies including the Department of Defense.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pelosi on the Republican Tax Scam: “One of the Largest Transfers of Wealth in our History.”

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

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi voted NO on the Republican Tax Scam bill: Donald Trump’s extreme legislation that will kick nearly 14 million people off their health care, take food out of the mouths of hungry kids and raise costs for health care and groceries across the board.

    For more than 29 hours, Speaker Emerita Pelosi and fellow House Democrats led sustained opposition to the Republican Tax Scam bill. Democrats offered hundreds of amendments to stop Republican cuts to health care and food assistance and to remove new tax breaks that Republicans are giving to their billionaire donors like Elon Musk.

    Watch Speaker Emerita Pelosi’s Floor remarks in opposition to the bill here.

    Watch Speaker Emerita Pelosi’s interview with Jen Psaki on MSNBC here.

    Watch Speaker Emerita Pelosi’s interview with Raj Mathai on NBC Bay Area here.

    Read the transcript of Speaker Emerita Pelosi’s Floor remarks below:

    Ranking Member Jim McGovern.  I’d like to yield two minutes to the gentlewoman from California, the Speaker Emerita, Ms. Pelosi.

    Speaker Emerita Pelosi. I thank the gentleman for yielding and for his exceptional leadership, and to all the members of the Rules Committee for your stamina and for your values.

    Mr. Speaker, the Reverend Martin Luther King Jr. said, ‘Of all the forms of inequality, injustice in health is the most shocking and the most inhuman because it often results in physical death.’ He went on to talk about access to health care as a right.

    But the inequality and inhumanity of this bill is exactly what Republicans have in store for the American people.

    I sat for five hours at the Rules Committee—some of you were there even longer. It was stiff competition to determine which provision was the worst. But let’s just talk for a moment about work requirements.

    They said, with great pride: ‘If you have a seven-year-old child, you have to go to work.’ A seven-year-old child is a little child.

    I recalled a conversation I had with some moms. One of them said: ‘If there’s a work requirement tied to Medicaid, this is what it means for me: If my child is sick, I can’t go to work because I can’t afford childcare. If I miss work, I miss pay—and I can’t afford to miss that pay. If I don’t go to work, I can be fired. So I’m forced to put my sick child on the school bus—because I need to go to work to keep my Medicaid.’

    And as we mentioned, about the silencers, it’s just beyond comprehension in terms of safety for our children.

    Because of the Republicans’ tax bill scam, millions of American families—seniors, veterans, vulnerable children, people with disabilities—will lose their health care. Rural hospitals will be closed. And millions of jobs will be destroyed across America.

    And all of this to give another massive tax cut to the richest people in America.

    It is a Republican Robin Hood in reverse: one of the largest transfers of wealth from working families to the rich that our country has ever seen.

    I urge a ‘no’ vote on the rule and the bill.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ohio Woman Who Defrauded Hundreds of Victims in Advance-Fee Scheme Involving High-End Handbags and Other Luxury Goods Sentenced to 20 Months in Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Rashell Ortiz, 23, of Grove City, Ohio, was sentenced today by United States District Court Judge Gerald J. Pappert to 20 months in prison, three years supervised release, restitution of $130,255 and a $600 special assessment for defrauding hundreds of victims in an advance-fee scheme involving the purported sale of high-end handbags and other luxury items.

    Ortiz was charged by indictment in January 2024 with six counts of wire fraud, and in December was convicted of all charges at trial.

    As proven at trial, from October 2019 to November 2021, Ortiz and her boyfriend, Orvil Cataquet Jr., 25, of Syracuse, New York, marketed items, predominantly luxury purses, through online sales platforms like Poshmark and Offer Up. Throughout the scheme, they posed as a young female who was selling the bags at reduced prices because she was going through a divorce and wanted to get rid of her ex-husband’s gifts. They offered interested buyers a discount to conduct the transaction through a third-party money transfer app such as Zelle, CashApp, Venmo, Google Pay, or PayPal.  Once they received the victims’ money, they failed to deliver the goods and eventually ceased contact. In all, Ortiz and Cataquet Jr. defrauded more than 300 victims, some of whom resided in the greater Philadelphia region out of approximately $130,225, which they used to fund their lifestyle of frequent food deliveries and video games.

    Cataquet Jr. pleaded guilty to wire fraud last year and was sentenced in October to 14 months in prison, three years of supervised release, and $156,074 in restitution.

    This case was investigated by FBI Philadelphia’s Newtown Square Resident Agency and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Meghan Claiborne and Sarah Wolfe

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  • MIL-OSI Security: South Texan man admits to cocaine possession

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    McALLEN, Texas – A 48-year-old Edcouch resident has pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute cocaine, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    On Dec. 13, 2024, authorities conducted a traffic stop on a Ford F-150 near Mercedes. Fernando Aguilera-Chavez was driving.

    A search of the vehicle revealed 30 packages wrapped in clear plastic and duct tape. The bundles weighed approximately 30.4 kilograms and tested positive for cocaine. Aguilera-Chavez admitted he knew he was in possession of the narcotics and intended to distribute them.

    U.S. District Judge Drew B. Tipton will impose sentencing Sept. 9. At that time, Aguilera-Chavez faces up to life in federal prison and a possible $10 million maximum fine.

    He has been and will remain in custody pending that hearing.

    The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Hidalgo County Constables Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jose A. Garcia prosecuted the case. 

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