NewzIntel.com

Category: CTF

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China’s banking and insurance sectors saw robust asset growth in January-March 2025

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    BEIJING, May 17 (Xinhua) — Chinese banks and insurers saw solid asset growth in the first quarter of this year, official data showed Friday.

    The assets of financial institutions in the country’s banking sector in national and foreign currencies at the end of March amounted to 458.3 trillion yuan (about 63.71 trillion US dollars), which is 6.7 percent more than a year earlier, according to data from the State Administration of Financial Supervision and Supervision (SAFSSC) of China.

    From the beginning of the year to the end of March, the total assets of financial institutions in the insurance sector increased by 5.4 percent to 37.8 trillion yuan.

    The country’s commercial banks posted a combined net profit of 656.8 billion yuan from January to March. The bad-loan ratio of these banks stood at 1.51 percent at the end of March, up from 1.5 percent at the beginning of the year.

    According to the State Administration of the Federal Tax Service, the income of insurance companies from insurance premiums in the first quarter amounted to 2.2 trillion yuan, and their expenses on compensation and payments reached 827.4 billion yuan. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China issues revised rules to promote high-quality development of catering sector

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    BEIJING, May 17 (Xinhua) — Chinese authorities have unveiled a revised set of regulations aimed at promoting the healthy development of the country’s catering sector, expanding domestic demand and stimulating consumption.

    The updated rules, issued jointly by China’s Ministry of Commerce and the National Development and Reform Commission, include changes aimed at supporting the sector’s development, combating food waste and improving workplace safety.

    The rules also call on companies in the sector to strengthen international exchanges, accelerate digital transformation and promote the preservation of local cuisine.

    The revised rules will come into force on June 15.

    According to official data, in 2024, China’s catering industry had more than 10 million enterprises, with their combined revenue reaching 5.57 trillion yuan (about 774.28 billion U.S. dollars), accounting for more than 11 percent of total retail sales of consumer goods. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Suns out Guns Out!

    Source: US Army (video statements)

    About the U.S. Army: The Army Mission – our purpose – remains constant: To deploy, fight and win our nation’s wars by providing ready, prompt & sustained land dominance by Army forces across the full spectrum of conflict as part of the joint force. Interested in joining the U.S. Army? Visit:
    spr.ly/6001igl5L
    Connect with the U.S. Army online: Web:
    https://www.army.mil
    Facebook:
    https://www.facebook.com/USarmy/
    X:

    Instagram:
    https://www.instagram.com/usarmy/
    LinkedIn:
    https://www.linkedin.com/company/us-army
    #USArmy #Soldiers #Military #Shorts #Army

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bLLMz13-thI

    MIL OSI Video –

  • PM Modi hails Neeraj Chopra’s landmark 90m throw at Doha Diamond League

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday congratulated Olympic gold medalist Neeraj Chopra for breaching the 90-metre mark in javelin throw during the Doha Diamond League 2025. The Prime Minister praised Chopra for achieving his personal best with a throw of 90.23 metres, calling it a reflection of the athlete’s relentless dedication, discipline, and passion.
     
    In a post on X, the Prime Minister said, “A spectacular feat! Congratulations to Neeraj Chopra for breaching the 90 m mark at Doha Diamond League 2025 and achieving his personal best throw. This is the outcome of his relentless dedication, discipline and passion. India is elated and proud.”
     
    Chopra’s historic throw made him the first Indian to cross the 90-metre milestone in javelin, setting a new national record in the process. The throw earned him a second-place finish at the prestigious international event, narrowly missing gold to Germany’s Julian Weber, who recorded a throw of 91.06 metres in the final round.

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Betty McCollum Slams Trump Administration for Betraying Afghans who Supported American Troops and Diplomats

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — On Monday morning, the Department of Homeland Security announced that in one month it will terminate Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Afghanistan, effectively abandoning life-saving protections for over 11,000 Afghans who fled Taliban persecution after supporting U.S. military engagement in the region.  

    In response to the Trump Administration’s decision to betray our Afghan allies, Congresswoman Betty McCollum, Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, issued the following statement:

    “Our Afghan allies risked everything, including their own lives and the safety of their families, to keep American troops and diplomats out of harm’s way during the war in Afghanistan.

    “President Trump’s decision to end TPS for these American allies is an appalling betrayal of their service and assistance to our nation. When they return home, they may face the wrath of a Taliban government that regularly facilitates the assassination, arbitrary arrest, and human rights abuses of those they view as dissidents.

    “This decision doesn’t just harm our Afghan allies; it fundamentally undermines American trust around the world.”

    ###

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ranking Member McCollum Remarks at United States Air Force and Space Force Oversight Hearing

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn)

    WASHINGTON — Congresswoman Betty McCollum (D-MN-04), Ranking Member of the Defense Subcommittee, delivered the following remarks at the subcommittee’s oversight hearing on the United States Air Force and Space Force:

    Good afternoon.

    I would also like to welcome Acting Secretary Ashworth, Generals Saltzman and Allvin.

    It’s a distinguished panel that’s here, but, as the Chair pointed out, we look forward to having a conversation with the upcoming Secretary of the Air Force about the budget after confirmation. We know the Senate has spoken with him, but our Members too, would like to understand the priorities that he’s going to be putting forth.

    This is our first hearing with the Administration following the release of the “skinny budget.” I’d like to take a few moments to acknowledge what the Administration is proposing. For Defense discretionary spending – President Trump is proposing an $893 billion request – essentially what President Biden would have proposed. This is effectively a freeze from the current fiscal year.

    Any increases beyond that are assumed through the reconciliation process – which the authorizers control. No one will be shocked to learn that I do not think reconciliation is a responsible way to appropriate defense dollars. This Committee is Constitutionally responsible for the allocation of Department of Defense resources – and we should be controlling the process. 

    Appropriating defense dollars through reconciliation undermines the authority and the jurisdiction of the Appropriations Committee. Now, Administrations of both parties have tried before to move money from the discretionary budget into mandatory spending. 

    This is not a new trick – but this is not something normally done with Defense funding. That is because the reconciliation bill may not become law. If it does not, this Committee cannot guarantee that Department of Defense priorities will be backfilled through the Appropriations process.

    Next, we know that programs for clean energy and climate resilience have been cut by this Administration. But as the leaders of the Air Force and Space Force – you cannot afford to take your eyes off the costs of climate change. Islands in the Pacific are not easy places to ship materials to or to build and maintain infrastructure in. It is difficult to protect them from the impacts of climate disruption, just look at the typhoon that hit Guam two years ago. $1.8 billion in additional funding was required to support the construction, planning, and design of facilities on Guam that were destroyed. 

    The Continuing Resolution last December carried an additional $3.4 billion in repair costs for other catastrophic weather events. That’s over $5 billion in taxpayer money that we had to spend on the impacts of climate change within the Department of Defense. That is not waste, fraud, abuse – or any other kind of political spin. It’s necessary to prepare, protect, and replace the critical infrastructure that our warfighters depend on. Climate disruption will not just go away by a wish and a prayer. It is something that we have to plan for, deal with, and expect to happen into the future.

    Turning to major programs – Air Force and Space Force have big bills due right now. The Sentinel program has ballooned to $141 billion, from an original estimate of $78 billion. The schedule is wildly off track from where it needs to be. The Next Generation Air Dominance program is planned to exceed $23 billion – and the price per plane is a serious consideration. The next Air Force One is behind schedule, and the Air Force has asked for more money to get it on track. Progress has been made on the parked F-35s – that’s good news, although it was bad news for us to read recently in the paper ‘the world’s top jet fighter is about to get more expensive’ because of the President’s tariffs. But there is more that needs to be done to get those planes delivered with the capabilities the Services need. And of course, there are new requirements for the Golden Dome – a missile defense program that has yet to be fully articulated by the Administration. These are problems that must be fixed through proper program management, planning, and resourcing. 

    Finally, I want to comment on the Administration’s approach to personnel management. There is no question that there is a culture of fear developing across the federal government as this administration continues to demean and demoralize federal employees. I have spoken with far too many of them. People have been fired without cause. People have been asked to quit to find “higher productivity jobs in the private sector.” 

    I wish the Department of Defense was immune to this – but it is not. I’ve had conversations with all the Services, especially Space Force, about how to build a first-class workforce. Secretary Hegseth’s goal is to remove 60 to 70 thousand civilians from across the Department of Defense. And now civilians are raising their hand – not to serve – but to leave. 

    Who will be around to manage the contracting process DoD needs to get major programs back on track? We are already living with the impacts of what happens when civilians take a buyout and stop working on contracts. The contract isn’t signed, the mission doesn’t get done, the programs fall behind and it costs the taxpayer more. There will be real ramifications to our national security because of the Administration’s personnel policies.

    We need to do something, sure, but let’s not take a chainsaw to it, let’s take a scalpel to what we need to do with our personnel policies.

    Gentlemen, I want to thank you again for appearing today.

    Thank you for your service, and for the service of the Airmen, Guardians, and civilians serving alongside you.

    I yield back.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Betty McCollum Statement on Israeli Airstrikes Targeting Gaza Hospital and Other Civilians

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — After multiple Israeli airstrikes this week, including on the European Hospital in the southern city of Khan Younis on Wednesday which killed 28 people and injured many more, Congresswoman Betty McCollum, Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, issued the following statement:

    “The use of bunker-busting bombs by Israeli Defense Forces to target civilian hospitals must stop immediately. Strikes on civilians are completely unacceptable. The people of Gaza are on the brink of starvation, and Israeli actions to bomb hospitals are driving the region further from peace. The United States and the international community must focus on delivering humanitarian aid to those in need as quickly as possible.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Al Green to Attend 111th Birthday Celebration of Mother Viola Ford Fletcher, Oldest Survivor of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Al Green (TX-9)

    (Tulsa, Oklahoma)— On Saturday, May 10, 2025, Congressman Al Green will join the Tulsa community in honoring a cherished matriarch of American history at the 111th birthday celebration of Viola Ford Fletcher, affectionately known as, “Mother Fletcher,” the oldest living survivor of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. 

    The celebration will serve as both a joyous occasion and a solemn reminder of the continued lack of action to provide justice to the victims of the horrific Tulsa Race Massacre for nearly 104 years. At the event, Congressman Green will honor the life, resilience, and steadfast determination of the living survivors – Mothers Viola Ford Fletcher and Lessie Benningfield Randle – by previewing his upcoming legislation aimed at providing meaningful restitution for the life-long inaction and enduring legacy of the Tulsa Race Massacre. Congressman Green hopes his legislation will assist in bringing justice and healing to the survivors and the Tulsa community.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Green Addresses Joint Session, Censure, Articles of Impeachment, Gaza and More on C-SPAN

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Al Green (TX-9)

    (Washington, D.C.) — On Thursday, May 8, 2025, in an interview with C-SPAN’s Washington Journal hosted by Mimi Gergees, Congressman Al Green addressed questions about the Joint Session of Congress, being censured, articles of impeachment, Gaza, and more. 

    You can access and listen to Congressman Al Green’s full interview online here. The floor speech highlighted is also accessible on various social media platforms, including Bluesky, Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly known as Twitter).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Green Announces His Articles of Impeachment Against Pres. Trump Will be Introduced Next Week

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Al Green (TX-9)

    (Washington, D.C.) — On Thursday, May 8, 2025, Congressman Al Green delivered remarks on the House floor to announce that his articles of impeachment against President Trump will be introduced next week. 

    You can access and listen to Congressman Al Green’s full speech online here. The floor speech highlighted is also accessible on various social media platforms, including Bluesky, Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly known as Twitter).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI Update: Rep. Al Green Files Impeachment Articles, Cites Trump as Threat to Democracy in ‘To Whom It May Concern’ Letter

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Al Green (TX-9)

    (Washington, D.C.)— On Thursday, May 15, 2025, I announced on the floor of the House of Representatives that I have filed H.Res.415, to impeach Donald John Trump, President of the United States. The resolution states that the President has devolved American democracy into authoritarianism, with himself as the authoritarian. I address President Trump’s failure to preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution by flouting constitutional law as well as the orders of federal courts, including the Supreme Court. A copy of my letter provides further explanation for why I am filing articles of impeachment against President Donald John Trump and is accessible here. Additionally, a copy of the articles of impeachment can be accessed by clicking here.

    You can access and listen to Congressman Al Green’s full speech online here. The floor speech highlighted is also accessible on various social media platforms, including Bluesky, Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly known as Twitter). 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Al Green Files Impeachment Articles, Cites Trump as Threat to Democracy in ‘Dear Colleague’ Letter

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Al Green (TX-9)

    (Washington, D.C.)—Today, I announced on the floor of the House of Representatives that I have filed H.Res.415 to impeach President Donald John Trump for condoning the flouting of federal court orders, flouting the separation of powers, undermining the independence of the federal judiciary, and flouting the constitutional mandate of due process – devolving our democracy into a de facto dictatorship with himself as the de facto dictator. A copy of my letter “To Whom It May Concern” provides further explanation for why I am filing articles of impeachment against President Donald John Trump and is accessible here. Additionally, a copy of the articles of impeachment can be accessed by clicking here.

    You can access and listen to Congressman Al Green’s full speech online here. The floor speech highlighted is also accessible on various social media platforms, including Bluesky, Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly known as Twitter).  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: After 17-Hour Debate, Rep. Judy Chu Slams Republicans for Advancing Tax Bill that Hurts American Families

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Judy Chu (CA2-27)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – After a 17.5-hour markup, the House Ways and Means Committee advanced House Republicans’ tax bill in a 26-19 party-line vote. In response, Rep. Judy Chu (CA-28), issued the following statement:

    “Republicans’ tax scam puts billionaires first and working families last. It rips health insurance away from 13.7 million people—the equivalent of every person in Los Angeles and Orange Counties combined. This bill guts coverage under the Affordable Care Act and forces the largest cut to Medicaid in our nation’s history, and it terminates SNAP food assistance for families who need it the most. All to fund trillions of dollars in tax giveaways to the wealthiest people and corporations in our country.”

    During the markup, Rep. Chu offered two amendments to protect Americans from these harmful cuts:

    • The “No Tax Cuts for Mega-Millionaires” Amendment would have blocked those making over $10 million a year from receiving new tax breaks under the bill.
    • The “Strike ACA Sabotage” Amendment would have removed harmful provisions that increase health insurance premiums, that make it harder for people to enroll in health coverage, and kick people off of their Affordable Care Act marketplace coverage.

    “These were simple, common-sense proposals to protect working Americans from the worst parts of this bill,” said Rep. Chu. “But every single Republican on the Committee voted no. They’re marching in lockstep with Donald Trump and Elon Musk while everyday Americans are left paying the price.”

    “Millions will be left without the food assistance they need to survive. People across the country will lose the tax credits that make health coverage affordable or be locked out of coverage altogether. Hospitals will be pushed to the brink of closure, emergency room visits will skyrocket, and seniors will be kicked out of their nursing homes. All so Republicans can give more money to their billionaire friends. But Democrats won’t stop fighting to protect the American people and hold Republicans and the Trump administration accountable.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Judy Chu Responds to Heartbreaking Case of Atlanta Nurse Forced to Be Kept on Life Support Due to Georgia’s Extreme Abortion Laws

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Judy Chu (CA2-27)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — In response to a heartbreaking report from Atlanta’s 11Alive News, which revealed that Georgia’s extreme abortion law has denied a brain-dead woman’s family the right to remove her from life support because she was pregnant at the time of her tragic brain death.

    Rep. Judy Chu, author of the Women’s Health Protection Act, issued the following statement: 

    “This is a tragedy. A brain-dead woman is being forced to stay on life support against her family’s wishes, because of Georgia’s extreme abortion ban. Let’s be clear: this is not a gray area. Georgia’s extreme abortion law has robbed Adriana Smith and her family of choice in the last moments of her life. This is what Republican abortion laws look like in practice: total disregard for women’s lives, and even their deaths. It’s beyond disgraceful.

    “In the quest to control women’s bodies, anti-abortion extremists have saddled us with laws that reduce women to nothing more than a womb. Adriana Smith is not an incubator. Adriana is a person. She is a mother, a nurse, and a daughter. She deserves dignity and the right to rest in peace.

    “We do not have to stand for this in America. My bill, the Women’s Health Protection Act, would restore the right to abortion care nationwide and stop states from enforcing cruel, medically unnecessary restrictions, like the one in Georgia that has trapped Adriana. We only need four Republicans in the House to join with us to pass this vital legislation to restore bodily autonomy to every person in this country, regardless of their state or zip code.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Chu Responds to Film Unions’, Studios’ Call for Expanded Film Incentives

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Judy Chu (CA2-27)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, President Trump announced his intention to impose tariffs on foreign films, a proposal which could have devastating impacts on the American film industry as well as all American service exports. Earlier this week, film and television unions and studios joined together with the Trump administration’s “Special Ambassadors” to Hollywood in sending a letter to President Trump urging support for expanded tax incentives for U.S. film and TV production. Rep. Judy Chu (CA-28), a long-time proponent of federal incentives including the Section 181 federal tax deduction for domestic film and television production, released the following statement: 

    “President Trump identified a serious and growing problem: that film and television production has been moving out of the United States and to the more than 80 countries that offer tax incentives for productions. This trend has hurt not just my district in Southern California, but communities across the country that have hosted film shoots, studios, prop manufacturers, and the thousands of good-paying jobs that go into making a movie or TV show a reality. Unfortunately, the President’s proposal to impose tariffs on foreign films is ill-conceived and would do more harm than good. 

    “Instead, we need to invest in domestic incentives that will make America more attractive for film productions so that we can bring these jobs back to the United States and maintain our economic and cultural leadership in entertainment. That means extending and expanding Section 181, the only federal tax incentive specifically for domestic film and television production. Section 181 is set to expire at the end of this year, and as a Member of the House Ways and Means Committee, I am working in a bipartisan manner to extend and improve this deduction. We must also think bigger and create new credits and incentives that will put us on equal or better footing with the countries that have been able to attract productions that would otherwise have happened here in the United States. 

    “I urge the President to back away from his dangerous threat of film tariffs and instead work with me and my colleagues in Congress on incentives that will restore this great American industry.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens Leads Special Order Hour on Science Cuts

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Haley Stevens (MI-11)

    Stop Trump’s Chaos. Stand Up for Science!

    WASHINGTON, D.C. –– Yesterday, Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens and Congressman Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA) led House Democrats in a Special Order Hour to call out President Trump and Elon Musk’s reckless policies and budget cuts to federal science agencies, including the National Science Foundation (NSF), which is causing chaos across Michigan and the country. Federal science agencies, including NSF,  fund vital scientific research, train the next-generation of scientists, and support technology transfer. These harmful policies and budget cuts jeopardize more than $3 billion in federal research dollars that Michigan universities and small businesses receive, threatening Michigan’s competitiveness in the global economy and threaten to deny Michigan students opportunities in STEM

    During the Special Order Hour, the Congresswoman brought attention to the unprecedented attacks on the National Science Foundation. Since the second Trump Administration began, NSF has:

    • Terminated over $1 billion in grants for research and STEM education authorized by Congress.
    • Attacked STEM education programs authorized by bipartisan Congressional action, including the Congresswoman’s Building Blocks of STEM Act which President Trump signed into law in 2019.
    • Carried out chaotic “Reduction in Force” efforts at NSF to tackle so-called “bloat” in an already efficient workforce; over 94% of NSF’s $9 billion in Fiscal Year 2025 budget was distributed in the form of grants, awards, and scholarships.
    • Undermined technical and subject-matter expertise by removing NSF scientific advisory boards
    • Politicalized gold-standard merit review process for choosing scientific awards. 

    Congresswoman Stevens was joined on the floor by her colleagues Reps. Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA); Don Beyer (D-VA); Bill Foster (D-IL); Valerie Foushee (D-NC); Melanie Stansbury (D-NM); Mark Takano (D-CA); Paul Tonko (D-NY); and George Whitesides (D-CA).

    Workers who were fired from the National Science Foundation sat in the gallery during the Special Order Hour.

    “The State of Michigan is known for its manufacturing prowess, its best-in-class skilled workforce, and the beauty of the Great Lakes. But what’s often overlooked is that the State of Michigan relies on innovation,” said Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens. “But Trump’s anti-science agenda undermines this symbiotic relationship and threatens Michigan’s future in advanced manufacturing, environmental protection, and next-generation mobility technologies. Trump’s chaotic policies are setting Michigan up to lose. 

    “The Trump Administration’s attack on science is not about cutting waste, fraud, and abuse. Federal science funding and programs return double or triple the investment we make in them. What these cuts and agency firings will do is lead to a brain drain in our government, which will hurt the health and safety of every American and diminish our country’s standing in the world,” said Congressman Suhas Subramanyam.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: S for Housing to visit Paris

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    S for Housing to visit Paris 
         During her visit to Paris, Ms Ho will visit local social housing projects, eco-districts, smart construction technology centres and sustainable urban developments. She will also meet with relevant government officials, industry representatives and several organisations to share Hong Kong’s experiences and efforts in enhancing the quantity, speed, efficiency and quality of public housing construction by embracing various innovative construction technologies and AI technologies, continuously enhancing public estate management, aiming to build a more pleasant living environment for residents.
     
         Ms Ho will return to Hong Kong on May 23 afternoon. During her absence, the Under Secretary for Housing, Mr Victor Tai, will be the Acting Secretary for Housing.
    Issued at HKT 12:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Severe Thunderstorm Watch 273

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Note:  The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
    SEL3

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 273
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    1130 PM EDT Fri May 16 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
    Far Southeast Ohio
    Western Virginia
    West Virginia

    * Effective this Friday night and Saturday morning from 1130 PM
    until 500 AM EDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph likely
    Isolated large hail events to 1.5 inches in diameter possible
    A tornado or two possible

    SUMMARY…Clusters of thunderstorms should spread eastward overnight
    while posing a threat for mainly scattered severe/damaging winds,
    with peak gusts up to 60-70 mph. Isolated hail and perhaps a tornado
    or two may also occur.

    The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 50
    statute miles east and west of a line from 35 miles east northeast
    of Parkersburg WV to 5 miles west southwest of Bluefield WV. For a
    complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline
    update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU3).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

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

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 267…WW 269…WW
    270…WW 271…WW 272…

    AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
    1.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 60 knots. A
    few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean storm motion vector
    27040.

    …Gleason

    SEL3

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 273
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    1130 PM EDT Fri May 16 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
    Far Southeast Ohio
    Western Virginia
    West Virginia

    * Effective this Friday night and Saturday morning from 1130 PM
    until 500 AM EDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph likely
    Isolated large hail events to 1.5 inches in diameter possible
    A tornado or two possible

    SUMMARY…Clusters of thunderstorms should spread eastward overnight
    while posing a threat for mainly scattered severe/damaging winds,
    with peak gusts up to 60-70 mph. Isolated hail and perhaps a tornado
    or two may also occur.

    The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 50
    statute miles east and west of a line from 35 miles east northeast
    of Parkersburg WV to 5 miles west southwest of Bluefield WV. For a
    complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline
    update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU3).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

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

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 267…WW 269…WW
    270…WW 271…WW 272…

    AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
    1.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 60 knots. A
    few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean storm motion vector
    27040.

    …Gleason

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW3
    WW 273 SEVERE TSTM OH VA WV 170330Z – 170900Z
    AXIS..50 STATUTE MILES EAST AND WEST OF LINE..
    35ENE PKB/PARKERSBURG WV/ – 5WSW BLF/BLUEFIELD WV/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 45NM E/W /29S AIR – 29WNW PSK/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..1.5 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..60 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 500. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 27040.

    LAT…LON 39547987 37258037 37258219 39548176

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU3.

    Watch 273 Status Report Messages:

    STATUS REPORT #1 ON WW 273

    VALID 170340Z – 170440Z

    THE SEVERE WEATHER THREAT CONTINUES ACROSS THE ENTIRE WATCH AREA.

    ..BROYLES..05/17/25

    ATTN…WFO…RLX…RNK…

    &&

    STATUS REPORT FOR WS 273

    SEVERE WEATHER THREAT CONTINUES FOR THE FOLLOWING AREAS

    OHC167-170440-

    OH
    . OHIO COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE

    WASHINGTON
    $$

    VAC021-027-051-071-185-170440-

    VA
    . VIRGINIA COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE

    BLAND BUCHANAN DICKENSON
    GILES TAZEWELL
    $$

    WVC001-005-007-013-015-017-019-021-025-033-035-039-041-047-055-
    063-067-073-075-081-083-085-087-089-091-095-097-101-105-107-109-
    170440-

    WV
    . WEST VIRGINIA COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE

    BARBOUR BOONE BRAXTON
    CALHOUN CLAY DODDRIDGE
    FAYETTE GILMER GREENBRIER
    HARRISON JACKSON KANAWHA
    LEWIS MCDOWELL MERCER
    MONROE NICHOLAS PLEASANTS
    POCAHONTAS RALEIGH RANDOLPH
    RITCHIE ROANE SUMMERS
    TAYLOR TYLER UPSHUR
    WEBSTER WIRT WOOD
    WYOMING
    $$

    THE WATCH STATUS MESSAGE IS FOR GUIDANCE PURPOSES ONLY. PLEASE
    REFER TO WATCH COUNTY NOTIFICATION STATEMENTS FOR OFFICIAL
    INFORMATION ON COUNTIES…INDEPENDENT CITIES AND MARINE ZONES
    CLEARED FROM SEVERE THUNDERSTORM AND TORNADO WATCHES.
    $$

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Low (20%)

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

    Low (10%)

    Wind

    Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

    Mod (60%)

    Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

    Low (20%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    Low (20%)

    Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

    Low (10%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    High (70%)

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Neguse Leads Renewed Call for Ban on Congressional Stock Trading: “Just put a bill on the Floor to ban it. Period. Members of Congress will no longer be able to trade stocks. Simple as that.”

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Joe Neguse (D-Co 2)

    Washington, D.C. — In case you missed it, Congressman Joe Neguse joined a bipartisan coalition on the House Floor yesterday evening to call on Speaker Mike Johnson to bring forth legislation that would ban Members of Congress from holding or trading stocks. Neguse, who has led the four-year effort to ban the practice, spoke of the need to weed out corruption in Washington and ensure transparency in all branches of government. 

    Newfound support from across the political spectrum emerged after public reporting revealed that some Members of Congress profited inappropriately from the Trump Administration’s erratic economic policy shifts and the chaotic, on-again-off-again imposition of tariffs.
    Watch Rep. Neguse’s remarks HERE.

    NEGUSE: Our 26th President, Teddy Roosevelt, once said, “No man who is corrupt, no man who tolerates corruption in others, can do his duty by the community.” That admonition rings true today.

    Four years ago, I led an effort to ban stock trading by Members of Congress, joined with colleagues on both sides of the aisle. For four years, we have tried to convince this Chamber to ban Members of Congress from trading stocks. Why? Because Members of Congress should be serving their communities, their constituents, and their country—not their stock portfolios.

    In that four-year span, forty-eight months, 1,400 days—how many millions of dollars have Members of Congress in this body made from trading stocks? It’s unconscionable. It’s a practice that should have ended years ago. And we have continued to beat that drum, month after month, week after week, day after day—and we will keep doing it until a majority in this body joins the rest of the American people, the public, in supporting a ban on this insidious practice. 

    And I’m grateful to Representative Magaziner for continuing to beat that drum. Leading the effort now, over the last two years. It feels as though we’re on the precipice—as Mr. Magaziner noted—of finally getting traction in this Chamber to end this practice. 

    But the one cautionary note I would offer, Mr. Speaker, is that in that four-year span, as I mentioned, this journey, this battle that we have waged—again, colleagues of mine on both sides of the aisle to ban stock trading—I have heard virtually every excuse in the book from some of my colleagues.

    It’s too complicated. There are competing bills. The legislative text is complex. 

    This is very simple. Just ban it. 

    Not five years from now, not next year. Just put a bill on the Floor to ban it. Period. 

    Members of Congress will no longer be able to trade stocks. Simple as that. 

    I hope, Mr. Speaker, that my colleagues will join me, join Mr. Magaziner, join the coalition that has organized around this issue so that we can finally get this done and end corruption here in Washington. 

    With that, Mr. Magaziner, I yield back.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Neguse and Zinke Introduce Bipartisan Effort to Expand Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Joe Neguse (D-Co 2)

    Washington, D.C. — This week, Congressman Joe Neguse, Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Federal Lands, joined forces with Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke to introduce the bipartisan Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration Program (CFLRP) Reauthorization Act of 2025. The bill would reauthorize and expand CFLRP, a highly successful U.S. Forest Service program that supports collaborative and community-based forest management to improve forest health, reduce wildfire risk, and support rural and mountain communities. 

    The legislation, which is also co-led by Representatives Andrea Salinas (OR-06) and Kim Schrier, M.D. (WA-08), would extend CFLRP for another ten years, increasing the size and scope of the Collaborative to reduce wildfire risk and make other program improvements. Since it was first authorized in 2009, CFLRP projects have restored 5.7 million acres of forestland, and helped improve 1,000 miles of trails and maintain 25,000 miles of roads. 

    “In Colorado and across the Rocky Mountain West, we know that protecting our forests and lands benefits our communities,” said Congressman Neguse. “The Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration Program is a successful partnership program that bolsters community-based stewardship, supporting efforts to promote cooperative, science-based wildfire mitigation. I’m incredibly proud to lead my colleagues in the House to champion its reauthorization.” 

    “Every year hundreds of thousands of acres of forest burn to the ground destroying landscapes, watersheds and homes. We can’t prevent every fire, but we can certainly manage our forests, so they are in better health and more resilient against catastrophic fires,” said Congressman Zinke. “The Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration Program was a proven success that leverages public and private entities to grow more resilient forests. When a program works, we should extend it. Montana forests must be multi-use. Recreation, conservation, and resource development all have their place and must be part of the conversation, but none of them can exist if our forests are unhealthy or burning down. The continuation of this program will promote the collaboration needed preserve more of our forests for use by the communities around them.”

    “All Washingtonians have seen firsthand that wildfires have become more frequent and severe in our state and throughout the West, a problem that will continue to be exacerbated by climate change,” said Congresswoman Schrier, M.D. “To protect our communities, we have to invest in improving forest health. Smart, sensible programs like the Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration (CFLR) program, have been shown to help reduce wildfire risk. That’s why I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan, bicameral bill to strengthen our wildfire safety and reauthorize and expand the CFLR program.” 

    “Collaborative forest management leads to better outcomes for our forests and our communities. The Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration program has a proven track-record of success in reducing wildfire risk and improving forest health,” said Rep. Salinas. “By embracing the CFLRP model, we can advance critical projects and prevent them from being bogged down by bureaucracy. I am proud to join my colleagues in co-leading the effort to reauthorize this critical program, and I will continue working to advance responsible forest management practices.” 

    The bill is also being championed by Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR) and Mike Crapo (R-ID) in the United States Senate and has support from Michael Bennet (D-CO), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Jim Risch (R-ID), and Steve Daines (R-MT).

    “When people come together to develop collaborative plans to manage our forests, we can thin overgrown forests, strengthen our timber stands, support diverse ecosystems, increase fire resilience, and boost workforce development,” said Senator Merkley. “This is a proven, bipartisan model that delivers healthier forests and stronger communities instead of litigation and conflict. Investing more in collaborative solutions will make a real difference in rural communities across Oregon and beyond.”

    “Shared, active forest management plays a vital role in reducing the risk of wildfires and fire suppression,” said Senator Crapo. “Ensuring long-term reauthorization of the CFLRP will promote Idaho’s forest health, encourage the responsible stewardship of our public lands and foster resilient, rural economies. Reauthorizing the CFLRP results in stronger relationships on the ground, more effective projects and a decreased risk of conflict and litigation.”

    “Collaborative forest projects help create jobs throughout Colorado while restoring wildlife habitat and managing fuel for wildfires. In Colorado, they bring together people across local government, industry, and conservation advocacy to make our forests more resilient and help our communities adapt to a changing climate,” said Senator Bennet. “As a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, I’ll work to expand this valuable program for Colorado in the upcoming Farm Bill.”

    The CFLRP brings stakeholders from all walks of life together to create solutions aimed at reducing wildfire risk across the West. Requirements of this program ensure that various local stakeholders collaborate, resulting in stronger relationships on the ground, better, more effective projects, and a decreased risk of conflict and litigation. Learn more about the program’s active and past projects HERE. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Crow Hosts Telephone Town Hall, Speaks Directly With Coloradans

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jason Crow (CO-06)

    WASHINGTON — Congressman Jason Crow (D-CO-06) hosted a telephone town hall with nearly 13,000 Coloradans, in which he spoke directly with constituents about his work in Congress and answered their questions live. The conversation focused on a variety of topics, including Congressman Crow’s work to lower costs, protect veteran care, and stand up to the recent actions of the Trump administration. 

    “One of the most important parts of my job is hearing directly from constituents, and I was glad to speak with thousands of Coloradans tonight on the issues that matter most to them and their families,” said Congressman Crow. “I’m glad to answer questions about my work in Congress to lower costs, protect veteran care, fight back against Republican Medicaid cuts, and stand up to the worst impulses of the Trump administration. I’m thankful to everyone who called in tonight to participate in our democracy.”

    The telephone town was live-streamed on Congressman Crow’s website, and a full recording of the entire telephone town hall can be found here. 

    Throughout his time in Congress, Congressman Crow has made it a priority to speak directly with Coloradans. Earlier this year, he held an in-person town hall event at Aurora’s Hinkley High School with more than 1,300 Coloradans in attendance. He has been vocal about the importance of hosting town halls and has called out his Republican colleagues who refuse to meet with their constituents. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Crow Leads Bipartisan Effort to Honor Promises to America’s Afghan Allies

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jason Crow (CO-06)

    WASHINGTON — Congressman Jason Crow (D-CO-06), a member of the House Armed Services Committee and veteran of the war in Afghanistan, called for 20,000 additional visas to be included for the Afghan Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) program in the FY26 appropriations bill. 

    SIVs provide a life-saving path to safety for Afghan nationals who face deadly retribution as a result of their work alongside U.S. troops, diplomats, and contractors during the war in Afghanistan.

    “As a veteran who served in Afghanistan, I might not be here today were it not for our Afghan partners,” said Congressman Crow. “Our Afghan partners helped America in our time of need and we cannot turn our backs on them now. Congress must ensure that our Afghan allies receive SIVs so they can start a life here in the U.S.”

    Congressman Zach Nunn (R-IA-03), along with over 100 other members, joined Congressman Crow in signing this letter.

    To qualify for an SIV, Afghan allies must complete rigorous vetting processes including multiple rounds of background checks, biometric screening, interviews, and security vetting conducted by the Department of Homeland Security and across intelligence agencies, often taking years to complete. In Fiscal Years 2019-2024, Congress recognized the importance of the SIV program and demonstrated our shared commitment to honoring our allies by including additional visas through the Appropriations process. 

    Congressman Crow has been a long-standing champion of the Afghan SIV program. During previous congressional hearings, Crow highlighted the importance of the SIV program and previously worked to ensure the authorization of 12,000 additional Afghan SIVs in the State Department’s foreign operations funding bill. He also introduced the Afghan Allies Protection Act to expand and extend the SIV program, helped introduce the Afghan Adjustment Act to provide a legal adjustment process for Afghan allies already in the US, and started the Honoring Our Promises Working Group following the announcement of the withdrawal to help expedite SIVs and U.S. Refugee Admissions Programs.

    A PDF of the letter can be found here, with full text appearing below:  

    Dear Chair Diaz-Balart and Ranking Member Frankel: 

    As you craft the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations bill, we urge you to provide an additional 20,000 visas for the Afghan Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) program. Afghan SIV holders served U.S.-led democratization and military efforts during our nation’s years in Afghanistan, providing significant faithful service to our security and strength. Ensuring there are sufficient visas for the Afghan SIV program is critical to keeping the program operational in order to secure these wartime allies. 

    The Afghan SIV program was first enacted through the Afghan Allies Protection Act of 2009 to provide a life-saving path to safety for Afghan nationals who face deadly retribution as a result of their work alongside U.S. troops, diplomats, and contractors. Since that time, the program has been improved multiple times, each time with significant bipartisan and bicameral support. 

    To qualify for an SIV, Afghan allies must complete rigorous vetting processes including multiple rounds of background checks, biometric screening, interviews, and security vetting conducted by the Department of Homeland Security and across intelligence agencies, often taking years to complete. These allies have passed the gold standard of vetting conducted by the United States. In Fiscal Years 2019-2024, Congress recognized the importance of the SIV program and demonstrated our shared commitment to honoring our allies by including additional visas through the appropriations process. Congress must build on this support so that the executive branch is able to issue visas to Afghans who face imminent threats from the Taliban, al Qaeda, and other hostile groups because of their service to the United States. 

    The U.S. Government committed to honoring our promises and made great strides in recent years to strengthen and expedite processing and resettlement. Similarly, the American people have never faltered in their support for our closest Afghan allies – from evacuating our partners in 2021, to welcoming Afghan allies as neighbors across the country, to bringing eligible SIV holders to safety in 2025. Through private flights and reception for our Afghan allies, veterans organizations, faith leaders, and everyday Americans continue to mobilize to bring our closest allies to safety. They need our sustained partnership to finish the mission. 

    That is why we respectfully urge you to continue your support for our Afghan allies and include an additional 20,000 Afghan Special Immigrant Visas in the FY 2026 National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations bill. Thank you for your consideration and support. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Readout of Congresswoman Ilhan Omar’s US-Africa Policy Working Group Meeting on Dismantling of USAID

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Ilhan Omar (DFL-MN)

    Today, US-Africa Policy Working Group Chairwoman Ilhan Omar hosted a Member-level briefing detailing the devastating human impacts of Donald Trump and DOGE’s dismantling of USAID and cuts to humanitarian and development assistance.

    Members were briefed on the real-world consequences of the short-sighted and cruel policies of the Administration, including the abrupt termination of food assistance to the world’s hungriest people, and the increased likelihood of infectious diseases and pandemics reaching into the United States of America.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Omar’s Statement on Trump Administration’s Plan to Deport Migrants to Libya

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Ilhan Omar (DFL-MN)

    WASHINGTON–Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) issued the following statement on the Trump Administration’s decision to deport migrants to Libya.

    “The Trump Administration’s plan to send migrants to Libya is unconscionable, cruel, and blatantly illegal. This decision flies in the face of basic morality. Sending migrants to a country that they didn’t come from and where they could face torture and inhumane treatment is appalling and criminal. Amnesty International has described conditions in Libya’s detention centers as a ‘hellscape’ and ‘life threatening.’ There are reports of human trafficking and sexual violence. No human being should be subjected to these horrific conditions. There is no doubt that these migrants will have their lives put at severe risk.

    “We need transparency on who in Libya our government negotiated with to make this deal. If, as seems likely, this was negotiated with Haftar’s militia, it represents an even graver violation of human rights and abdication of our responsibilities under the Convention Against Torture.

    “The administration’s continued rejection and reckless disregard of due process is deeply alarming. Our Constitution guarantees due process and equal protection under the law to everyone in our country, not just citizens.​ Donald Trump is moving us toward authoritarianism with every passing day.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ranking Member Omar Opening Remarks at Subcommittee Hearing on OSHA’s Mission to Keep Workers Safe

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Ilhan Omar (DFL-MN)

    WASHINGTON – Ranking Member Ilhan Omar (MN-05) delivered the following opening statement at Workforce Protections Subcommittee hearing entitled, “Reclaiming OSHA’s Mission: Ensuring Safety Without Overreach.”  

    “Thank you, Chairman, and thank you to our witnesses for your testimony today.

    “Over the past 100 days, President Trump and his administration have decimated the very agencies and resources that keep workers safe and healthy.  Now, Committee Republicans are following suit by holding this hearing to attack the work of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

    “We should all be able to recognize a basic truth: no job should ever be a death sentence.  Workers deserve to come home to their families at the end of the day- not in pain, not in fear, but alive and well.

    “To protect that fundamental right, Congress passed landmark safety laws and established important agencies like OSHA, the Mine Safety and Health Administration, and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health.  But all three of these agencies have been chronically underfunded since their inception.  And, largely because of that, they have long struggled to robustly defend workers from preventable injuries, illnesses, and death at work.

    “In the 54 years since it was established, OSHA has made great strides, but it remains hamstrung by an overly complicated regulatory process, persistent underfunding, and the long, uphill battle of updating standards to reflect scientific advances.

     “Despite these constraints, OSHA took action during the Biden Administration and proposed common-sense safeguards, like the heat stress rule, to prevent tragedies in the workplace.   Rather than build on that progress, the Trump Administration is now threatening to dismantle any government program or agency that prioritizes workers’ health and protects workers on the job. 

    “At one point, DOGE targeted at least 11 OSHA field offices to be permanently shut down – including the only office in Louisiana, located in what is known as ‘Cancer Alley’ due to the presence of over 200 chemical plants and the high rates of cancer in the area. MSHA had at least 30 field offices slated for closure on DOGE’s hit list, including an office created in response to the Upper Big Branch Mine disaster.  And while we face a surge in child labor violations, DOGE is still cutting staff and planning to close 20 Wage and Hour Division offices.

    “Shutting down field offices will endanger workers’ lives by cutting off the public from DOL’s most vital services.  This also means severely limiting the geographic coverage of inspectors’ and investigators’ enforcement activities against law-breaking companies and further straining an already resource-strapped DOL.  And it doesn’t stop here.

    “On April 1st, nearly the entire NIOSH workforce was placed on leave, with the promise of being fired later this summer by HHS Secretary Kennedy.  In one sweeping move, Secretary Kennedy put 50 years of scientific expertise and public health research at risk.

     “DOGE kicked out NIOSH staffers, paid them to not work, and then – after realizing that effectively eliminating NIOSH was a mistake – the Trump Administration started to reverse course and rehire only some of those staffers.  This entire circus was wasteful, expensive, and harmful for workers; a description that could apply to most of DOGE’s actions. 

    “Workers are not expendable.  They are not a statistic.  OSHA and NIOSH do the essential work of keeping workers safe.  We must fund them properly and strengthen the laws the support their mission.

    “In my own district, we are already feeling the consequences of these cuts: The University of Minnesota’s Midwest Center for Occupational Health and Safety is one of just 18 NIOSH-funded Education and Research Centers in the nation.  It trains the next generation of workplace safety experts in the region and helps protect our workers in high-risk industries.

    “Without NIOSH, the invaluable research and workforce development provided by that Center—and others like it across the country—will be lost.  That means fewer trained medical and safety professionals, less research capacity to prevent fatal accidents, and, ultimately, more injuries, more deaths, and more grieving families.

    “Democrats are committed to honoring those workers who have been harmed or killed on the job, not just with words, but with action to change the system. 

    “Recently, Ranking Member Scott, Representative Courtney, and I reintroduced the Protecting America’s Workers Act – a bill that would make long-overdue improvements to the enforcement of the Occupational Safety and Health Act.  This bill would expand coverage to millions of workers currently excluded from the law’s protections and strengthen whistleblower protections.  These reforms are critical to preventing the most serious violations that endanger workers’ safety. 

    “Democrats are also championing legislation to protect healthcare and social service workers from violence, to make mining safer, and to prevent illness and injury from extreme heat.

    “This is what it means to have an agenda to ensure safety.  And with that in mind, I hope that we can have a productive discussion today.

    “Thank you, and I yield back.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Rep. Omar Honors Sue Abderholden on the House Floor

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Ilhan Omar (DFL-MN)

    WASHINGTON– Yesterday, Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) spoke on the House Floor in honor of Sue Abderholden for her over two decades of service as the Executive Director of the National Alliance on Mental Illness Minnesota. During her tenure, she helped pass over two dozen landmark laws that reshaped education, health care, housing, and criminal justice to better serve people living with mental illnesses.

    The full video can be found here.

    Full transcript below:

    “Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Sue Abderholden for her transformational leadership and advocacy for accessible mental health care services in Minnesota.

    “During her 24 years of service as the Executive Director for the National Alliance on Mental Illness Minnesota, she helped pass over two dozen landmark laws that reshaped education, health care, housing, and criminal justice to better serve people living with mental illnesses.

    “Sue championed legislation to require mental health training for teachers and expanded crisis and early intervention services. 

    “Thanks to Sue’s unwavering commitment to expanding culturally responsive, person-centered mental health care, our communities are safer and healthier.

    “I am grateful for her years of service and hope she has a wonderful retirement.

    “Thank you and I yield back.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Rep. Omar Honors Ted Pouliot on the House Floor

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Ilhan Omar (DFL-MN)

    WASHINGTON– Yesterday, Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) spoke on the House Floor in honor of Ted Pouliot for his decades of service to Minneapolis. This past weekend, Mr. Pouliot raised $12,000 at his art sale to benefit nonprofits working to end homelessness and address hunger across the city.

    The full video can be found here.

    Full transcript below:

    “Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ted Pouliot for a lifetime of service supporting our Minneapolis community.

    “As a senior at DeLaSalle High School in Minneapolis in 1952, Ted first started volunteering at House of Charity’s dining hall to help feed Minnesotans going hungry. ​​This was just the start of his decades of service. 

    “Later in life, Ted founded the Minneapolis affordable housing nonprofit, Project for Pride in Living, helping folks find stable housing.

    “Now, at 91, Ted paints to raise funds for nonprofits throughout Minneapolis.

    “This past weekend, he raised 12,000 dollars at his art sale to benefit nonprofits working to end homelessness and address hunger for Agate Housing and Services, Groveland Emergency Food Shelf, and Sabathani Food Shelf.

    “Ted truly embodies what it means to live a life of service. It’s truly an honor to recognize him here today. 

    “Thank you and I yield back.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Stauber Helps Advance Historic Natural Resources Reconciliation Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) and his House Natural Resources Committee colleagues held a full committee markup on their portion of the budget reconciliation bill. 

    Congressman Stauber released the following statement following the bill’s advancement: 

    “The House Natural Resources Committee took significant action to support the President’s America First agenda,” said Congressman Stauber. “This portion of the reconciliation bill generates over $18.5 billion in savings for the American taxpayer while also unleashing American energy and mineral dominance. By restoring key mineral leases and revoking Biden’s harmful mineral withdrawal in the Superior National Forest, this legislation will create significant revenue for the federal government and economic opportunity for the state of Minnesota – something my constituents and I are especially enthusiastic about. Last night’s markup was a great first step, and I look forward to delivering these major wins for Northern Minnesota and the entire nation.”

    This legislation generates revenue and implements savings across federal agencies, reducing federal deficit by an estimated $18.5 billion. Provisions include: 

    • Reinstating key mineral leases in Northern Minnesota and revoking Biden’s harmful mineral withdrawal in the Superior National Forest, generating $80 million in revenue for the federal government.
    • Reinstating quarterly onshore oil and gas lease sales, generating $12 billion in revenue.
    • Mandating at least 30 lease sales in the Gulf of America over the next 15 years and six in the Cook Inlet off the coast of Alaska, generating billions of dollars in new revenue.
    • Returning to reasonable oil and natural gas royalty rates.
    • Requiring geothermal lease sales, generating $23 million in new revenue.
    • Resuming leasing for energy production in the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska and the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, generating over $1 billion in new revenue and savings.
    • Resuming coal leasing on federal lands.
    • Increasing timber sales on federal lands and requiring long-term timber contracts.
    • Rescinding various wasteful slush funds established under the Biden administration in agencies such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the U.S. Forest Service, the National Park Service, and the Bureau of Land Management.
    • Investing in water infrastructure in the West.
    • Providing funding to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, including by establishing the National Garden of American Heroes.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Stauber Successfully Prevents National Park Service from Changing Frozen Lakes Use Plan to Restrict Access in Voyageurs

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – After months of hearing from constituents concerned with the National Park Service’s (NPS) proposed plans to change the Frozen Lakes Use Plan to restrict access in Voyageurs National Park, Congressman Stauber was successfully able to advocate against and effectively block these proposed changes from going into effect. 

    Congressman Stauber made the following statement upon hearing the news: 

    “From the beginning, I’ve been opposed to the proposed Frozen Lakes Use Plan in Voyageurs National Park as it would have prevented Minnesotans from accessing and enjoying thousands of acres of surface area on frozen lakes within the park boundaries in winter months. Such a move would have been devastating to resort owners, outfitters, guides, and so many who benefit from our local recreation economy during the winter months. We could not allow this to stand, which is why I am proud that my advocacy – and the advocacy of others – put an end to this misguided proposal. Simply put, the proposed Frozen Lakes Use Plan was an attack on our way of life in Northern Minnesota.”

    As argued by Stauber, the proposed changes put forward by the NPS would not only have hindered use by residents and recreationists alike, but it would also have represented federal overreach because federal law clearly states that state authorities, not federal authorities, have jurisdiction to regulate waters within the state of Minnesota. 

    Given the termination of these proposed changes, the park will continue the same management of these frozen lakes as they have done in the past.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Stauber Reintroduces the Parity in Engineering Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) recently reintroduced the Parity in Engineering Act, legislation that will make it easier for engineering firms in our state to do business by eliminating Minnesota’s exemption from common federal procurement requirements.

    Of his legislation, Congressman Stauber said, “For too long, an arbitrary cap on the cost of doing business has put engineering firms in Minnesota at a disadvantage. I am proud to reintroduce the Parity in Engineering Act to remove this barrier to business success, and I thank the American Council of Engineering Companies of Minnesota for working with me on this critical issue.”

    Jonathan Curry, Executive Director of the American Council of Engineering Companies of Minnesota said, “By eliminating a decades-old barrier that has restricted competition and innovation, this bill will help retain engineering jobs in Minnesota, ensure MnDOT works with the most qualified professionals and firms on infrastructure projects statewide, and bring the state in line with national standards. We fully support this important initiative!”

    BACKGROUND:

    Prior to the mid-1990s, states had a patchwork of policies for the procurement, administration, and auditing of contracts for engineering and design services. Many states placed overhead cap rates on engineering firms that did not reflect the true cost of business.  

    Through the passage of several pieces of legislation, Congress mandated that states must follow common federal procurement requirements to guide their respective Department of Transportation (DOT) contracts for engineering services on federal-aid projects. However, an exemption precluded Minnesota and West Virginia from following these federal requirements.

    As a result, Minnesota’s Department of Transportation has developed practices that are inconsistent with federal regulations and run counter to the policies in other states.

    MIL OSI USA News –