Category: CTF

MIL-OSI USA: Governor Lamont Applauds House Approval of Legislation on Smartphones in Schools

Source: US State of Connecticut

(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont is applauding the Connecticut House of Representatives for approving legislation on Tuesday that requires all school districts statewide to adopt a policy on the use of smartphones by students in K-12 public schools as part of an effort to promote distraction-free learning in the digital age.

The legislation, which is included in section five of House Bill 7009, as amended, directs local and regional boards of education to use the policy guidance document crafted by the Connecticut State Department of Education in the development of their local smartphone policies. Districts will be required to adopt a policy in time for the start of the 2026-2027 school year and continue having an approved policy each school year thereafter.

“Young people learn best when they are actively listening to classroom instruction and interacting with their teachers and peers, not swiping, clicking, and scrolling,” Governor Lamont said. “In this day and age when technology is causing addictions and distracting people from developing social skills in interpersonal communication, school districts should have policies that promote a healthy balance on the use of personal devices. The state has developed guidance that provides a clear framework, and this legislation requires each school district to review that document and adopt their own local policies on this issue. I applaud the bipartisan members of the Connecticut House of Representatives for approving this legislation, especially the leadership of Education Committee co-chair Representative Jennifer Leeper, and I urge the Senate to pass it in concurrence with the House so that I can sign it into law.”

The legislation will next be transmitted to the Senate for its consideration. That chamber must approve the bill by the end of the 2025 Regular Session, which concludes on June 4.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 15, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Governor Lamont Directs Flags To Half-Staff Thursday for Peace Officers Memorial Day

Source: US State of Connecticut

(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that he is directing U.S. and state flags in Connecticut lowered to half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Thursday, May 15, 2025, in recognition of Peace Officers Memorial Day, a national observance paying tribute to local, state, and federal law enforcement officials who have died in the line of duty. It is recognized annually during National Police Week.

“Entering a career in law enforcement takes a special kind of person who is so dedicated to their community that they are prepared at a moment’s notice to run into harm’s way in the name of public safety and for the protection of complete strangers,” Governor Lamont said. “Every single person in our state and our country benefits from the protection of police officers, and we owe it to them to show how grateful we are for their service and how much we respect them. On Peace Officers Memorial Day, we salute those law enforcement officers who have given their lives in the line of duty, and we keep in our hearts their families and loved ones. I urge everybody in Connecticut to thank our law enforcement officials and keep those we’ve lost in your prayers.”

“Law enforcement officials epitomize what it means to be a public servant, working tirelessly to protect and serve their communities,” Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz said. “As we observe Peace Officers Memorial Day, let us remember those who have lost their lives in the line of duty. Their heroism will not be forgotten, and we owe a great debt of gratitude.”

In accordance with the governor’s directive, flags will be at half-staff on the Connecticut State Capitol building and all other state-operated buildings, grounds, and facilities statewide. Individuals, businesses, schools, municipalities, and any other private entities and government subdivisions are encouraged to lower their flags for this same duration of time. Since no flag should fly higher than the U.S. flag, all other flags, including state, municipal, corporate, or otherwise, should also be lowered.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 15, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Recognized Again Among Nation’s Best for Patient Experience

Source: US State of Connecticut

For the third consecutive year, the national health care consumer platform Healthgrades recognizes UConn’s John Dempsey Hospital with its Outstanding Patient Experience Award.

In addition to her roles as UConn Health’s chief nursing officer and John Dempsey Hospital’s chief operating officer and vice president for quality and patient care services, Caryl Ryan is serving as the interim vice president for patient experience. (Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health)

The distinction is a direct result of positive patient feedback in several critical areas of care, putting John Dempsey Hospital among the top 10% of hospitals nationwide for patient experience.

“This recognition is based on an objective analysis of patient perceptions reflective of care received,” says Caryl Ryan, chief nursing officer and the UConn John Dempsey Hospital chief operating officer and vice president for quality and patient care services, who also is serving as interim vice president for patient experience. “The fact that our patients consistently recognize our overall clinical excellence is a tremendous honor and further validation of our efforts across the hospital to continue to deliver high-quality care to our patients.”

UConn Health’s is one of only two hospitals in Connecticut to earn a 2025 Outstanding Patient Experience Award, and is the only hospital in the state to win it three years running.

“This award is an affirmation of our outstanding commitment to meeting the needs of patients across a wide range of important aspects of health care,” says Dr. Scott Allen, UConn Health’s chief medical officer and the hospital’s medical director of clinical effectiveness and safety. “Being recognized three years in a row means that we are consistently patient-centric in our approach to patient care.”

Dr. Scott Allen is UConn Health’s chief medical officer and the UConn John Dempsey Hospital medical director of clinical effectiveness and safety. (Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health photo)

Each year, Healthgrades recognizes the top hospitals nationwide that provide an exceptional experience for their patients during their hospital stay. As part of its annual analysis, Healthgrades evaluated more than 3,000 hospitals that submitted at least 100 Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems surveys, covering admissions from January 2023 to December 2023.

To determine the recipients of the Outstanding Patient Experience Award, Healthgrades applies a scoring methodology to 10 patient experience measures. These measures focus on patients’ perceptions of their hospital care, including staff communication, medication explanations, and cleanliness.

“We commend John Dempsey Hospital for going above and beyond to ensure patients have the best possible experience during their hospital stay and recovery process,” says Dr. Debra Gradick, senior physician consultant at Healthgrades. “Better patient experiences lead to better health outcomes, which is why it’s so important for patients to choose a hospital that excels at providing high quality, compassionate care.”

Learn more about Healthgrades’ methodology for its Outstanding Patient Experience Awards.

In addition to annual patient experience accolades in the spring, Healthgrades announces top hospitals in more than 30 specialties in the fall. Last fall, John Dempsey Hospital Earned Five-Star Ratings In Four Areas: upper gastrointestinal surgery, treatment of pneumonia, treatment of pulmonary embolism, and treatment of sepsis.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 15, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General James Sues Capital One for Bait-and-Switch Tactics That Cost Customers Millions

Source: US State of New York

EW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James today sued Capital One N.A. and Capital One Financial Corporation (Capital One) for cheating its online savings account customers out of millions of dollars in interest payments. The lawsuit alleges that Capital One marketed its “360 Savings” accounts as “high interest” accounts with “one of the nation’s best savings rates” that would earn its customers more than an average savings account. In reality, while interest rates rose nationwide, Capital One kept the interest rates for its 360 Savings accounts artificially low. Instead, Capital One created “360 Performance Savings,” a nearly identical type of savings account that provided much higher interest rates than 360 Savings – at one point, more than 14 times higher. Capital One intentionally misled its 360 Savings customers about the existence of its 360 Performance Savings product to avoid paying them millions of dollars in interest. With this lawsuit, Attorney General James seeks to hold Capital One accountable and provide restitution to consumers who were cheated out of the interest they thought they were earning.

“New York families work hard to save money for their futures, and they deserve every dollar of interest they are promised,” said Attorney General James. “Capital One assured high returns with no catches, then pulled the rug out from under their customers and hoped nobody would notice. Big banks are not allowed to cheat their customers with false advertising and misleading promises. I will always fight to protect New Yorkers’ wallets and prevent banks from ripping off consumers to boost their own bottom lines.”

A high-interest savings account is a bank account that pays depositors a higher interest rate than a traditional savings account. Capital One marketed 360 Savings as its “high interest” savings account product with “a great everyday rate,” promising customers: “Your money will earn much more than what it would in an average savings or money market account…What’s the catch? There is none.”

However, beginning in September 2019, Capital One introduced a new type of savings account called 360 Performance Savings that paid much higher interest rates. As interest rates rose nationwide beginning in 2022, Capital One froze its 360 Savings rate at 0.3 percent and increased its 360 Performance Savings rate to as high as 4.35 percent, leaving 360 Savings customers with a below average interest rate. Instead of encouraging 360 Savings customers to upgrade their existing accounts, Capital One worked to keep them in the dark about the availability of the new product.

As Attorney General James alleges in the lawsuit, while Capital One promoted its 360 Performance Savings accounts to existing customers, it did not notify its 360 Savings customers of the chance to earn more interest. Capital One even instructed its employees not to tell 360 Savings customers about the new product unless they explicitly asked.

Capital One removed 360 Savings from its website and completely replaced it with 360 Performance Savings, concealing that 360 Savings and 360 Performance Savings existed as separate and distinct products with different interest rates. By doing so, Capital One created a secret, two-tier system of savings accounts in which only new accounts received the high interest rates that Capital One advertised.

With compound interest, even a small difference in rates adds up over time to create large differences in savings, meaning customers who stayed in 360 Savings accounts lost out on significant interest payments. A customer who put $10,000 in a 360 Savings account in September 2019 would have earned $186 of interest after five years. If the same customer had switched to a 360 Performance Savings account, they would have earned $1,090 of interest over the same period. Collectively, New York customers lost out on millions of dollars of interest compared to what they would have received with 360 Performance Savings accounts, while Capital One pocketed the difference.

Attorney General James alleges Capital One’s actions violate state and federal law by misleading customers about whether 360 Savings was Capital One’s only high-interest savings account, and about the interest rate for 360 Savings accounts. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau sued Capital One in January over similar allegations, but voluntarily dropped its lawsuit, along with a slew of other lawsuits, after a change in leadership. The action brought by Attorney General James seeks to ensure that Capital One does not escape accountability, by seeking restitution and damages for all affected Capital One customers, disgorgement of profits Capital One made by illegally misleading its customers, and penalties.

This matter is being handled by Assistant Attorney General Jason E. Meade with the Consumer Frauds and Protection Bureau. The Consumer Frauds and Protection Bureau is led by Bureau Chief Jane M. Azia and Deputy Bureau Chief Laura J. Levine, and is a part of the Division of Economic Justice, which is overseen by Chief Deputy Attorney General Chris D’Angelo and First Deputy Attorney General Jennifer Levy.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 15, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: Putting Money Back in New Yorkers’ Pockets

Source: US State of New York

Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins said, “A budget is a statement of values and priorities. While Washington advocates tax cuts for the ultra-wealthy and mega-corporations at the expense of millions of working Americans, we in New York continue to champion the well-being of the middle class. The Senate Democratic Majority has worked with Governor Hochul and the Assembly to deliver a budget that invests in people and addresses the challenges facing New Yorkers. With this enacted budget that includes inflation rebate checks, we have prioritized our state’s working families and individuals, putting money back into the pockets of millions of New Yorkers.”

Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie said, “These checks will put money back into the pockets of New Yorkers, allowing them to save or spend in a way that makes sense for them. This announcement is another step forward in the Assembly Majority’s mission to make the everyday lives of hardworking families easier and we will continue fighting for a future where no hardworking family has to worry about putting food on the table or keeping a roof over their heads.”

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. said, “For the families here in New York City and across New York State living on the sharp edge of poverty, having a little extra cash to help keep a roof over their heads and food on their tables couldn’t be more critical, especially in an economy thrown into chaos by Donald Trump and his tariffs. Queens appreciates the leadership of Governor Hochul, as well as the state Legislature, in making these inflation refund checks possible, and my office will continue to be a proud partner alongside our state leaders in making our borough a more affordable place to call home.”

Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson said, “I want to thank Governor Kathy Hochul for her continued commitment to easing the financial burdens facing New Yorkers. The inflation refund checks will provide much-needed support to millions of households across our state, where many families are struggling to make ends meet amid rising costs. This initiative is a clear example of what responsive, people-centered leadership looks like, and I applaud the Governor for putting money back into the pockets of those who need it most.”

New York City Council Member Carmen De La Rosa said, “I applaud Governor Hochul and the State Legislature for prioritizing fully funded transit improvements in the FY 2026 budget. For Northern Manhattan, this means more accessible stations, cleaner infrastructure, and good union jobs for our communities. In the face of ongoing attacks from the Trump administration on climate action and public transit, this kind of leadership is more important than ever. These investments are critical to building a more equitable, sustainable, and inclusive transit system for all New Yorkers.”

New York City Council Member Chris Banks said, “New Yorkers have been suffering at the hands of inflation for far too long. Inflation has driven prices up far beyond livable for many low-income communities. I support Governor Hochul, in making the decision to put money back in tax payers pockets. These checks may be the difference between a family eating or being able to pay rent. It’s time to give hard working New Yorkers their money back, and let them spend it how they choose.”

New York City Council Member Simcha Felder said, “More money in people’s pockets is always a good thing!”

Over 8 million New Yorkers will get an inflation refund because it’s simple — this is your money and we’re putting it back in your pockets.”

Governor Kathy Hochul

Inflation has driven the costs of everyday necessities higher and as a result, the State’s revenue from the collection of sales tax has also increased. Governor Hochul believes that money belongs to hardworking New York families and should be put back in their pockets as an inflation refund — and that’s why 8.2 million households statewide will receive a check this fall.

Starting today, New Yorkers can visit ny.gov/inflationrefund for more information on eligibility and other details.

Who’s Eligible for an Inflation Refund Check?

You are eligible for an inflation refund check if, for tax year 2023, you:

Filed Form IT-201, New York State Resident Income Tax Return;
Reported income within the qualifying thresholds below; and
Were not claimed as a dependent on another taxpayer’s return.

Joint tax filers with income up to $150,000 will receive a $400 check.

Joint tax filers with income over $150,000 but no greater than $300,000 will receive a $300 check.

Single tax filers with income up to $75,000 will receive a $200 check.

Single tax filers with incomes over $75,000 but no greater than $150,000 will receive a $150 check.

There are no age restrictions. Filers do not need to do anything to receive an inflation refund check. If you filed a tax return, are below the income thresholds, and no one else claimed you as a dependent, you will receive a check.

When Will Checks Be Delivered?

Checks will be mailed across the state starting in October, and deliveries will continue through November.

Your check may arrive earlier or later than your neighbors, as mailings will not be based on zip code or region.

Additional information from the New York State Tax Department can be seen at ny.gov/inflationrefund.

Embedded Flickr Album

Regional Breakdown

Inflation refund checks will be sent this fall to 8.2 million households throughout all corners of New York State. A breakdown of the number of checks going to each region can be seen below.

Region	Number of Recipients
New York City	3.53 million
Long Island	1.25 million
Mid-Hudson	924,000
Western New York	585,000
Finger Lakes	513,000
Capital Region	475,000
Central New York	321,000
Southern Tier	251,000
Mohawk Valley	198,000
North Country	156,000
TOTAL	8.2 million

MIL OSI USA News –

May 15, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: Florida Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Defraud the United States

Source: US State of California

Defendant’s Scheme Caused $3M Loss to the U.S. Treasury

Last week, a Florida man pleaded guilty before Magistrate Judge David A. Baker for the Middle District of Florida to conspiring to defraud the United States by filing false tax returns for clients. The plea must be accepted by a U.S. district court judge.

The following is according to court documents and statements made in court: Diandre Mentor, of Miami, worked for a tax return preparation company between January 2017 and 2019 named Neighborhood Advance Tax (NAT). Mentor and his co-conspirators operated a dozen offices throughout Florida that fraudulently inflated client tax refunds by fabricated deductions on their returns. Mentor and his co-conspirators also held periodic training sessions at which they taught other NAT employees how to prepare fraudulent tax returns.

In 2020, Mentor and his co-conspirators started their own tax return preparation business named Smart Tax & Finance that eventually expanded to 12 franchise locations throughout South and Central Florida. As with Neighborhood Advance Tax, Mentor and his co-conspirators prepared false tax returns for clients, including by fabricating deductions. As before, Mentor and his co-conspirators also taught franchise owners and employees how to prepare false returns for clients.

In total, Mentor caused a tax loss to the IRS of $3,090,077.

Several of Mentor’s co-conspirators previously pleaded guilty. Abryle Y De La Cruz and Emmanual Almonor pleaded guilty to conspiring to defraud the United States. Adon Hemley pleaded guilty to conspiring to defraud the United States and to aiding the preparation and filing of false returns. Isaiah Hayes pleaded guilty to aiding the preparation and filing of false returns. The two remaining co-conspirators, Franklin Carter Jr. and Jonathan Carrillo, are scheduled to go to trial on June 2.

Mentor will be sentenced at a later date. He faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison as well as a period of supervised release, restitution, and monetary penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe for the Middle District of Florida made the announcement.

IRS Criminal Investigation is investigating the case.

Trial Attorney Michael L. Jones of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Testerman for the Middle District of Florida are prosecuting the case.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 15, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Justice Department Releases New Resources to Protect Servicemembers’ Rights

Source: US State of California

The Justice Department announced today that it has issued two fact sheets on the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA). The first explains how servicemembers, recent veterans, and their spouses can exercise their right to the six percent interest rate benefit under the SCRA. The second generally summarizes some of the most common protections and benefits under the SCRA for the military community.

“Servicemembers make great sacrifices to protect and advance our nation’s safety,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The Justice Department is committed to ensuring that servicemembers are afforded their rights and benefits under the law.”

The SCRA was enacted to enable servicemembers to devote their entire energy to the defense needs of the nation. When our servicemembers cannot focus on their mission because they are distracted by financial issues, our national security suffers. These fact sheets seek to help the military community by enabling them to learn more about and affirmatively assert their rights under the SCRA. They cover a wide variety of topics including housing rights, lending rights, property rights, and the portability of professional licenses.

It is more imperative than ever that military families be able to access benefits that can ease their financial burdens. Today’s fact sheet on the six percent interest rate benefit will help more servicemembers, especially members of the Guard and Reserves, apply to their lenders for a successful reduction of their interest rates on eligible accounts.

The Servicemember and Veterans Initiative, housed in the Department’s Civil Rights Division, works to ensure that the rights of the brave men and women of our nation’s armed forces, and the veterans who have served in the past, are safeguarded from discrimination and unfair treatment.

Since 2011, the department has obtained over $481 million in monetary relief for over 147,000 servicemembers through its enforcement of the SCRA. For more information about the Department’s enforcement efforts under the SCRA and other laws that protect the rights of servicemembers and their families, please visit www.servicemembers.gov.

Servicemembers and their dependents who believe that their rights under the SCRA have been violated should contact the nearest Armed Forces Legal Assistance Program Office. Office locations may be found at legalassistance.law.af.mil.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 15, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Expanding support for inclusive communities
Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)
Alberta’s government is committed to fostering a province where people from all backgrounds are valued and respected. The Anti-Racism Grant Program is an important part of this work, and a key tool to help increase awareness of the impacts of discrimination and racism and promote inclusive, multicultural communities. Budget 2025 provides $1.5 million over three years for the Anti-Racism Grant Program to support organizations and community groups in creating and delivering programs that help address racism.

“Supporting community-driven diversity, inclusivity and anti-racism initiatives is a key step in combatting racism and fostering an inclusive province. These grants support local work to develop programs, educational tools and events that promote understanding of the effects of racism on Albertans and on our communities.”

Muhammad Yaseen, Minister of Immigration and Multiculturalism

The Ant-Racism Grant Program provides up to $10,000 per project to help communities combat discrimination and address racism through a variety of initiatives. Project applicants must demonstrate objectives that promote the awareness of the impacts of racism and/or build community capacity to support anti-racism projects. The program is open to Alberta-based non-profit organizations including multicultural and faith-based organizations, First Nations and Metis Settlements. Public sector entities, for-profit organizations, and arms-length municipal or municipal district affiliated organizations may apply in partnership with an Indigenous or ethnocultural organization.

“The work we do to combat racism is not just about raising awareness – it’s about creating lasting change in our communities. The grant we received has been pivotal in turning our vision into reality, providing the necessary resources to amplify voices, foster meaningful dialogue and inspire action. Without this support, our project wouldn’t have reached the hearts and minds of so many, nor would it have sparked the change we hope to see.”

Ruksana Rashid, executive director, The Foundation for the Voice of Immigrants in Canada for Empowerment (VOICE)

In the 2024-2025 fiscal year, Alberta’s Anti-Racism Grant Program provided 58 community groups with a total of $500,000 to support community initiatives that promote understanding of the impact of racism. Over the past two years, Alberta’s government has funded 107 community-driven projects across the province that address racism and promote multiculturalism.

“The Human Services Professionals Association is very appreciative of the funding from the Government of Alberta as it was absolutely crucial for the success of our project. It provided the necessary resources to create and deliver impactful workshops aimed at educating Albertans on racism and its impacts. This financial support enabled us to engage qualified facilitators, develop educational materials, and extend collaborative efforts to diverse communities necessary to address such a complex and vital issue.”

David Getiro, president, Human Services Professionals Association

Budget 2025 is meeting the challenge faced by Alberta with continued investments in education and health, lower taxes for families, and a focus on the economy.

Quick Facts
- Alberta’s Anti-Racism Grant Program has two streams to support community-led initiatives that help address and prevent racism and foster welcoming multicultural communities across Alberta.
  
  Stream 1 provides up to $5,000 for projects that promote the awareness of the impacts of racism faced by Indigenous and racialized groups.
  
  Stream 2 provides up to $10,000 for projects that support the organizations’ anti-racism efforts.
- The next intake for grant applications is anticipated to open in fall 2025.
Related information
- alberta.ca/anti-racism-grant
MIL OSI Canada News –
May 15, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Saskatoon Correctional Centre Expansion Reaches Substantial Completion

Source: Government of Canada regional news

Released on May 14, 2025

The Government of Saskatchewan has substantially completed the expansion of the Saskatoon Correctional Centre (SCC), with the centre scheduled to open this summer.

The modern expansion will securely house individuals in custody, enhancing both safety and capacity in the provincial correctional system. Having started construction in 2021, the project remained on schedule and within budget, aligning with the government’s broader infrastructure investment strategy.

“We are very pleased to announce that this project has reached substantial completion,” SaskBuilds and Procurement Minister David Marit said. “This is one of the many investments into infrastructure projects reflecting our commitment to building stronger communities that will serve future generations.”

The $135 million project will increase the capacity of adult men in custody by 312 beds. This facility will include a medical unit and clinic, additional program space, upgraded video court suites and a kitchen that will provide services to all of SCC.

“Saskatchewan is committed to building safe and secure facilities that support staff, inmates and the public,” Corrections, Policing and Public Safety Minister Tim McLeod, K.C., said. “Adding more beds for offenders will help alleviate pressures in the provincial correctional system. This expansion will also provide the SCC with additional space for rehabilitation programming to help offenders find a better path in life and never return to custody.”

“Strategic Prairie Region Alliance (SPRA) and the consulting engineers are proud to have collaborated with the entire project team in the design and successful delivery of this much needed facility that addresses immediate safety and security needs while allowing for long range operational flexibility and future expansion,” Strategic Prairie Region Alliance project director and architect Patrick Kelly said. “The design incorporates best practices and lessons learned relative to safety and security in a rehabilitative correctional environment while maximizing efficiencies of the integrated building systems.”

Infrastructure projects like this one are essential for ensuring Saskatchewan’s public safety. The SCC expansion reflects the province’s ongoing efforts to maintain a balanced approach between enforcement, rehabilitation and community protection.

“All of us here at PCL are proud of the facility we have delivered to the Ministry of SaskBuilds and Procurement (SBP) and pleased to be able to do so on time and on budget,” PCL Vice President and District Manager Mike Staines said. “The SCC expansion is going to be a significant piece of infrastructure within our community and its successful delivery was made possible as part of a true collaboration between all project partners, including the ownership team, design team and trade contractors.”

SBP will continue to handle the day-to-day building maintenance of the facility.

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For more information, contact:

MIL OSI Canada News –

May 15, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Grothman’s Bill to Help Reopening of Alcatraz

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Glenn Grothman (R-Glenbeulah 6th District Wisconsin)

Congressman Glenn Grothman (R-WI) has reintroduced the BOP Direct-Hire Authority Act, legislation which will alleviate staffing shortages at Bureau of Prisons (BOP) facilities across the country by cutting bureaucratic red tape to enhance the safety and security of BOP personnel.

President Donald Trump’s recent call to reopen Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary to house America’s most violent criminals highlights the growing national concern that our prison system is overwhelmed and under-resourced. This legislation received support from five cosponsors, as well as the Council of Prison Locals C-33 (CPL-33), the largest union for BOP employees nationwide.

“One of the main hurdles in President Trump’s effort to reopen Alcatraz will be the ability to quickly hire Correctional Officers,” said Grothman. “That is why Congress needs to quickly pass this legislation to help the federal prison system which has been understaffed and overwhelmed for years.

“We have labor shortages everywhere in this country, but when it comes to hiring correctional officers, it is unnecessarily multiplied by the federal bureaucracy. I have toured the Federal Correctional Institution in Oxford, Wisconsin, which is part of the Bureau of Prisons, and I often receive feedback from many of its employees. Unfortunately, FCI Oxford is yet another example of the staffing crisis that has devastated BOP facilities and personnel across the country.”

“For far too long, our Bureau of Prisons facilities have faced dangerous staffing shortages that threaten the safety of correctional officers, staff, and inmates alike. As the Representative of FCI Ray Brook, I am proud to support the BOP Direct-Hire Authority Act, a critical step toward reversing this crisis and restoring safe staffing levels across the Bureau of Prisons,” said Chairwoman Stefanik. “This bill empowers BOP facilities to move swiftly to fill open positions and will significantly improve workforce morale, retention, and overall institutional safety. I thank Congressman Grothman for his leadership on this important issue, and I will continue to advocate for solutions that prioritize the safety of our correctional personnel and communities.”

“The current staffing levels in BOP institutions have reached dangerously low levels, posing significant risks to both staff and inmates. Insufficient staffing within the Bureau of Prisons has far-reaching consequences, affecting prison operations, inmate management, and overall institutional functioning. In fact, in FY2023, there were over 7,700 vacancies for Correctional Officers within the BOP,” said Brandy Moore White, National President of CPL-33. “We firmly believe that the enactment of the “BOP Direct-Hire Authority Act” into law will play a vital role in ensuring the safety and security of our prison facilities.”

Background Information

For many years, staffing ratios at numerous Bureau of Prisons (BOP) facilities have fallen below safe or sustainable levels, posing increased risks to the safety and well-being of both BOP personnel and inmates. The lack of manpower also affects personnel morale and retention. Shane Fausey, former National President of the Council of Prison Locals, highlighted this concern during his testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee in 2022 by reporting that staffing at BOP has fallen from 43,369 employees in January of 2016 to 35,000 employees in September of 2022.

One of the biggest issues that affects the BOP’s ability to hire personnel in a timely manner are requirements by the United States Office of Personnel Management (OPM). Currently, applicants to BOP must be processed through OPM before the applications are made available to individual BOP facilities for potential hire. This cumbersome process takes a minimum of 105 days, but often results in a lag of six months from the time a position is posted until it is filled.

A straightforward and simple solution to tackle this issue is to provide individual BOP facilities with direct-hire authority for all vacant positions throughout the agency, at least until staffing ratios increase to acceptable levels. This streamlined approach aims to expedite the hiring process, ensuring that critical positions are filled promptly and efficiently.

The BOP Direct-Hire Authority Act would provide direct-hire authority for all BOP facilities until each facility reaches a level of 96 percent staffed and is supported by the Council of Prison Locals C-33 (CPL33), the largest union for BOP employees nationwide.

Grothman is joined by Representatives Elise Stefanik (R-NY), Pete Stauber (R-MN), Mike Rogers (R-AL), Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ), and Beth Van Duyne (R-TX).

U.S. Rep. Glenn Grothman (R-Glenbeulah) is serving his fifth term representing Wisconsin’s 6th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 15, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Justice Department Releases New Resources to Protect Servicemembers’ Rights

Source: United States Attorneys General 2

The Justice Department announced today that it has issued two fact sheets on the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA). The first explains how servicemembers, recent veterans, and their spouses can exercise their right to the six percent interest rate benefit under the SCRA. The second generally summarizes some of the most common protections and benefits under the SCRA for the military community.

“Servicemembers make great sacrifices to protect and advance our nation’s safety,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The Justice Department is committed to ensuring that servicemembers are afforded their rights and benefits under the law.”

The SCRA was enacted to enable servicemembers to devote their entire energy to the defense needs of the nation. When our servicemembers cannot focus on their mission because they are distracted by financial issues, our national security suffers. These fact sheets seek to help the military community by enabling them to learn more about and affirmatively assert their rights under the SCRA. They cover a wide variety of topics including housing rights, lending rights, property rights, and the portability of professional licenses.

It is more imperative than ever that military families be able to access benefits that can ease their financial burdens. Today’s fact sheet on the six percent interest rate benefit will help more servicemembers, especially members of the Guard and Reserves, apply to their lenders for a successful reduction of their interest rates on eligible accounts.

The Servicemember and Veterans Initiative, housed in the Department’s Civil Rights Division, works to ensure that the rights of the brave men and women of our nation’s armed forces, and the veterans who have served in the past, are safeguarded from discrimination and unfair treatment.

Since 2011, the department has obtained over $481 million in monetary relief for over 147,000 servicemembers through its enforcement of the SCRA. For more information about the Department’s enforcement efforts under the SCRA and other laws that protect the rights of servicemembers and their families, please visit www.servicemembers.gov.

Servicemembers and their dependents who believe that their rights under the SCRA have been violated should contact the nearest Armed Forces Legal Assistance Program Office. Office locations may be found at legalassistance.law.af.mil.

MIL Security OSI –

May 15, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Florida Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Defraud the United States

Source: United States Attorneys General 2

Defendant’s Scheme Caused $3M Loss to the U.S. Treasury

Last week, a Florida man pleaded guilty before Magistrate Judge David A. Baker for the Middle District of Florida to conspiring to defraud the United States by filing false tax returns for clients. The plea must be accepted by a U.S. district court judge.

The following is according to court documents and statements made in court: Diandre Mentor, of Miami, worked for a tax return preparation company between January 2017 and 2019 named Neighborhood Advance Tax (NAT). Mentor and his co-conspirators operated a dozen offices throughout Florida that fraudulently inflated client tax refunds by fabricated deductions on their returns. Mentor and his co-conspirators also held periodic training sessions at which they taught other NAT employees how to prepare fraudulent tax returns.

In 2020, Mentor and his co-conspirators started their own tax return preparation business named Smart Tax & Finance that eventually expanded to 12 franchise locations throughout South and Central Florida. As with Neighborhood Advance Tax, Mentor and his co-conspirators prepared false tax returns for clients, including by fabricating deductions. As before, Mentor and his co-conspirators also taught franchise owners and employees how to prepare false returns for clients.

In total, Mentor caused a tax loss to the IRS of $3,090,077.

Several of Mentor’s co-conspirators previously pleaded guilty. Abryle Y De La Cruz and Emmanual Almonor pleaded guilty to conspiring to defraud the United States. Adon Hemley pleaded guilty to conspiring to defraud the United States and to aiding the preparation and filing of false returns. Isaiah Hayes pleaded guilty to aiding the preparation and filing of false returns. The two remaining co-conspirators, Franklin Carter Jr. and Jonathan Carrillo, are scheduled to go to trial on June 2.

Mentor will be sentenced at a later date. He faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison as well as a period of supervised release, restitution, and monetary penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe for the Middle District of Florida made the announcement.

IRS Criminal Investigation is investigating the case.

Trial Attorney Michael L. Jones of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Testerman for the Middle District of Florida are prosecuting the case.

MIL Security OSI –

May 15, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Lower Northfield — Alert issued for Lunenburg County

Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

The following alert has been issued for Lunenburg County:

Dangerous man who may be armed. RCMP responding.

Area of Northfield Rd., Lower Northfield, Lunenburg County, Nova Scotia.

Residents: Seek immediate shelter or stay inside and close and lock doors and windows. Do not leave a secure location. Suspect Richard MacInnis last seen on foot. Six feet, 175 pounds. Auburn hair. Green eyes. Nova Scotia RCMP is responding.

Do not provide a ride to anyone asking for one. Do not pick up hitch hikers. Do not disclose police locations. Call 911 to report emergencies or tips. Updates will be posted to RCMPNS social media accounts.

MIL Security OSI –

May 15, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Naval Special Warfare Commander Testifies Before Texas Legislature, Highlighting Heroism of Fallen Navy SEAL Nathan Gage Ingram

Source: United States Navy

AUSTIN, Texas – Rear Adm. Jamie Sands, commander of Naval Special Warfare Command, testified before the Texas State Legislature today at the Texas State Capitol, advocating for the posthumous award of the Texas Legislative Medal of Honor to Special Warfare Operator 1st Class Nathan Gage Ingram.

MIL Security OSI –

May 15, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Institute for Nanoscience Hosts Annual Proposal Planning Meeting

Source: United States Navy

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Institute for Nanoscience at the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) hosted its annual proposal planning meeting April 15, bringing together researchers from across the Lab to share ideas and build collaborations in support of future research initiatives.

MIL Security OSI –

May 15, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Continuing Promise 2025 Set to Begin

Source: United States Navy

MAYPORT, Florida – The U.S. Navy Mercy-class hospital ship USNS Comfort (T-AH 20) will deploy this June-August to the U.S. Southern Command area of operations as part of U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command/U.S. 4th Fleet’s Continuing Promise 2025 mission. After several months of detailed planning, USNS Comfort is scheduled to visit Grenada, Panama, Colombia,
Ecuador, Costa Rica and Dominican Republic during the nearly three month-long mission.

MIL Security OSI –

May 15, 2025
MIL-OSI: Credit Agricole Sa: GENERAL MEETING OF CRÉDIT AGRICOLE S.A.
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Press release

Montrouge, 14 May 2025

GENERAL MEETING OF CRÉDIT AGRICOLE S.A.

The General Meeting of Shareholders of Crédit Agricole S.A. was held in Paris on Wednesday, 14 May 2025, in the presence of Chairman, Dominique Lefebvre, and Chief Executive Officer, Philippe Brassac.

Over 1 700 people attended the General Meeting, either physically or remotely.

With a quorum of 80,37%, the General Meeting approved all the resolutions put forward by the Board of Directors. All resolutions received a score of over 84% except for resolution A, which was rejected by more than 95%.

Nearly 15 500 shareholders voted prior to the General Meeting, 78% of which voted online.

Following the approval of the financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2024, the Crédit Agricole S.A. Ordinary General Meeting confirmed a dividend payout of €1.10 per share.

In addition, the General Meeting appointed Olivier Desportes, Chairman of the Regional Bank of Côtes d’Armor, as a Director to replace Louis Tercinier, who has reached the statutory age limit.

The General Meeting ratified the co-optation of Gaëlle Regnard, Chief Executive Officer of the Loire Haute-Loire Regional Bank, as Director to replace Hugues Brasseur as of 26 March 2025.
The General Meeting also renewed the terms of Dominique Lefebvre, Pierre Cambefort, Jean-Pierre Gaillard and Christine Gandon.

The Board of Directors, which met following the General Meeting, re-appointed Dominique Lefebvre as Chairman. On the proposal of Olivier Gavalda, the new Chief Executive Officer of Crédit Agricole S.A. since may 14, Jérôme Grivet has been appointed as sole Deputy Chief Executive Officer and second executive director.

The Board of Directors, chaired by Dominique Lefebvre, warmly thanked Philippe Brassac and Xavier Musca for their commitment to the development of the Crédit Agricole Group in recent years.

Crédit Agricole S.A. press contacts
Alexandre Barat: 06 19 73 60 28 – alexandre.barat@credit-agricole-sa.fr
Olivier Tassain: 06 75 90 26 66 – olivier.tassain@credit-agricole-sa.fr
All our press releases can be found at: https://www.credit-agricole.com/en

@Credit_Agricole Groupe Crédit Agricole

Customer Relations contacts – individual shareholders
Freephone: +33 (0) 800 000 777 – relation@actionnaires.credit-agricole.com

Customer Relations contacts – registered shareholders
+33 1 57 78 34 31 – ct-contactcasa@uptevia.com

Customer Relations contacts – institutional investors
+33 1 43 23 04 31 – investor.relations@credit-agricole-sa.fr

Attachment
- 2025 05 14 PR AG 2025
The MIL Network –
May 15, 2025
MIL-OSI: TMD Energy Limited Reports 2024 Full-Year Results
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, May 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TMD Energy Limited (NYSE: TMDE) (the “Company” or “TMDEL”), together with its subsidiaries (the “Group” or “TMDEL Group”) is a Malaysia and Singapore based service provider engaged in integrated bunkering services segment which involves ship-to-ship transfer of marine fuels, ship management services and vessel chartering services, today reported its financial results for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024.

Fiscal Year 2024 Financial Results Highlights
- Group Revenue increased by 8.8% to $688.6 million in FY2024 from $633.1 million in FY2023. Notably, revenue from our Bunkering Services Segment rose by $55.5 million.
- Despite revenue grew by 8.8%, gross profit surged 32.7% to $16.0 million, with gross margin improving to 2.3% in FY2024 from 1.9% in FY2023.
- Income from operations increased substantially by more than 130% to $6.0 million in FY2024 from $2.6 million in FY2023.
- Net income remained stable at $1.9 million in FY2024, compared to $2.0 million for FY2023.
Dato’ Sri Kam Choy Ho, Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Company commented, “In FY2024, the Company experienced sustainable revenue growth, primarily driven by the success of our Bunkering Services Segment. Revenue notably increased by 8.8% in FY2024 to over $688 million, while net income remained stable at about $1.9 million, compared to $2.0 million a year earlier.”

“The Bunkering Services Segment accounted for most of our revenue and net income, which benefited from improved operational efficiency and an expanding customer base. The redeployment of a vessel from vessel chartering services to the bunkering segment further enhanced our bunkering capacities, allowing us to better meet our client growing needs.”

“Looking ahead, we recognize the importance of maintaining this momentum. Our focus will remain on optimizing balance sheet by enhancing our operational efficiencies and exploring new customer opportunities in the bunkering sector. With our existing internal team of ship managers who are qualified professional mariners, we aim to continue growing our ship management revenue by targeting our existing bunkering client and external clients. We’ll also maintain competitive pricing via our supplier leverage and transparent practices as we stay committed to leveraging our strengths to drive sustainable growth and deliver value to our stakeholders.”

Financial Performance Overview

Our Group reported an overall revenue of $688.6 million for FY2024, an increase of 8.8%, or equivalent to $55.5 million from $633.1 million in FY2023 due to rise in contribution from the Bunkering Services Segment. This segment which contributed more than 99% of the Group’s revenue had enjoyed a 6.0% increase in the volume of oil cargo bunkered as our Group expanded its customer base. Meanwhile, the Ship Management Segment had contributed the remaining $0.4 million of the Group’s revenue.

We recorded an overall increase of 32.7% in our gross profit, or equivalent to $3.9 million, to $16.0 million for FY2024 from $12.1 million in FY2023. As we strategically focus on penetrating new markets and expanding our customer base, we had managed to improve our gross profit margin from 1.91% in FY2023 to 2.33% in FY2024.

General and administrative expenses had increased by $0.1 million in FY2024 to $5.2 million from $5.1 million as we participated in environmental, social and governance activities as part of our commitment to a sustainable green environment and incurring additional travelling expenses for our business expansion.

Depreciation had increased by $0.5 million from $4.3 million in FY2023 to $4.8 million in FY2024 as we continued to maintain and dry-dock our vessels periodically to ensure their sea worthiness and condition when carrying out a safe and efficient bunkering operation.

Interest expense had increased by $2.4 million to $4.6 million in FY2024, up from $2.2 million in FY2023 as higher volume of trade financing facilities were utilized to meet the increase in volume of oil cargo bunkered.

Overall, net income remained stable at $1.9 million in FY2024, compared to $2.0 million for FY2023.

About TMD Energy Limited

TMD Energy Limited and its subsidiaries are principally involved in marine fuel bunkering services specializing in the supply and marketing of marine gas oil and marine fuel oil of which include high sulfur fuel oil, low sulfur fuel oil and very low sulfur fuel oil, to ships and vessels at sea. TMDEL Group is also involved in the provision of ship management services for in-house and external vessels, as well as vessels chartering. As of today, TMDEL Group operates in 19 ports across Malaysia with a fleet of 15 bunkering vessels.

For more information about our Company and its business activities, please visit our website at: www.tmdel.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this announcement are forward-looking statements, including but not limited to, the Company’s Offering. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on the Company’s current expectations and projections about future events that the Company believes may affect its financial condition, result of operations, business strategy and financial needs. Investors can identify these forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as “may”, “could”, “will”, “should”, “would”, “expect”, “plan”, “intend”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “predict”, “potential”, “project” or “continue” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results and encourages investors to review other factors that may affect its future results in the Company’s financial results filings with the SEC.

For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

TMD ENERGY LIMITED
e-Mail : corporate@tmdel.com

WFS INVESTOR RELATIONS
e-Mail : services@wealthfsllc.com

The MIL Network –
May 15, 2025
MIL-OSI: Ellsworth Growth and Income Fund Ltd. (NYSE: ECF) Increases Quarterly Distribution 23% to $0.16 Per Share From $0.13 Per Share

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

RYE, N.Y., May 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Board of Trustees of Ellsworth Growth and Income Fund Ltd. (the “Fund”) declared a $0.16 per share cash distribution payable on June 23, 2025 to common shareholders of record on June 13, 2025. The $0.16 quarterly distribution is a 23% increase from $0.13 per share, bringing the annual distribution rate to $0.64 from $0.52 per share. The increase follows on the strength of the Fund’s market total return of 27% in 2024.

The Fund intends to pay the greater of either an annual distribution of 5% of the Fund’s trailing 12-month average month-end market prices or an amount that meets the minimum distribution requirement of the Internal Revenue Code for regulated investment companies.

Each quarter, the Board of Trustees reviews the amount of any potential distribution from the income, realized capital gain, or capital available. The Board of Trustees will continue to monitor the Fund’s distribution level, taking into consideration the Fund’s net asset value and the financial market environment. If necessary, the Fund pays an adjusting distribution in December, which includes any additional income and net realized capital gains in excess of the quarterly distributions. The Fund’s distribution policy is subject to modification or termination by the Board of Trustees at any time, and there can be no guarantee that the policy will continue. The distribution rate should not be considered the dividend yield or total return on an investment in the Fund.

All or part of the distribution may be treated as long-term capital gain or qualified dividend income (or a combination of both) for individuals, each subject to the maximum federal income tax rate for long term capital gains, which is currently 20% in taxable accounts for individuals (or less depending on an individual’s tax bracket). In addition, certain U.S. shareholders who are individuals, estates or trusts and with income that exceeds certain thresholds will be required to pay a 3.8% Medicare surcharge on their “net investment income”, which includes dividends received from the Fund and capital gains from the sale or other disposition of shares of the Fund.

If the Fund does not generate earnings (dividends and interest income, less expenses, and realized net capital gain) equal to or in excess of the aggregate distributions paid by the Fund in a given year, then the amount distributed in excess of the Fund’s earnings would be deemed a return of capital. Since this would be considered a return of a portion of a shareholder’s original investment, it is generally not taxable and would be treated as a reduction in the shareholder’s cost basis.

Long-term capital gains, qualified dividend income, investment company taxable income and return of capital, if any, will be allocated on a pro-rata basis to all distributions to common shareholders for the year. Based on the accounting records of the Fund currently available, each of the distributions paid in 2025 to common shareholders with respect to the Fund’s fiscal year ending September 30, 2025 would include approximately 19% from net investment income and 81% from net capital gains on a book basis. This information does not represent information for tax reporting purposes. The estimated components of each distribution are updated and provided to shareholders of record in a notice accompanying the distribution and are available on our website. The final determination of the sources of all distributions in 2025 will be made after year end and can vary from the quarterly estimates. Shareholders should not draw any conclusions about the Fund’s investment performance from the amount of the current distribution. All individual shareholders with taxable accounts will receive written notification regarding the components and tax treatment for all 2025 distributions in early 2026 via Form 1099-DIV.

Investors should carefully consider the investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses of the Fund before investing. For more information regarding the Fund’s distribution policy and other information about the Fund, call:

Bethany Uhlein
(914) 921-5546

About Ellsworth Growth and Income Fund
Ellsworth Growth and Income Fund Ltd. is a diversified, closed-end management investment company with $186 million in total net assets. ECF invests primarily in convertible securities and common stock with the objectives of providing income and the potential for capital appreciation, objectives the Fund considers to be relatively equal over the long-term due to the nature of the securities in which it invests. The Fund is managed by Gabelli Funds, LLC, a subsidiary of GAMCO Investors, Inc. (OTCQX: GAMI).

NYSE American: ECF
CUSIP – 289074106

ELLSWORTH GROWTH AND INCOME FUND LTD.
Investor Relations Contact:
Bethany Uhlein
914.921.5546
buhlein@gabelli.com

The MIL Network –

May 15, 2025
MIL-OSI: Parsa Launches First Exchange for Range Perpetuals: A New Way to Trade Onchain Volatility

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

LOS ANGELES, May 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Perpetual futures have been the go-to trading instrument in crypto for years. They’re efficient, familiar, and easy to use. But they only let traders take one kind of position: up or down. Options offer more flexibility, but high costs and complexity have hindered their adoption onchain.

Parsa is introducing Range Perpetuals, a derivative designed around trading price ranges instead of just price direction. The protocol is now live on mainnet, launching with its first market — SOL Daily.

Range Perps lets traders choose a specific price band, like $145 to $150, and earn depending on the precision of the price prediction. This structure opens up strategies that aren’t possible with traditional perps; traders can now benefit from sideways markets, build positions around volatility, or take views on how duration the price of the underlying asset will stay within a zone. The mechanics are simple, but the strategies can be as nuanced as traders want them to be.

Parsa is the first exchange built specifically for this kind of trading. It uses a tick-based system where each range has its own price, and all trades settle through the protocol itself without the need for traditional liquidity providers. The trading interface is straightforward and updates in real time, showing clear yield and PnL for each position. More assets and shorter or longer timeframes will roll out soon.

“Perps changed the game for DeFi trading, but they don’t capture everything,” said Niteesh Settypalli, cofounder. “Range Perps let you trade how the market behaves, not just up or down.”

In traditional finance, traders have long used volatility-focused products to express more complex views on the market with U.S. options markets alone clearing over 12 billion contracts in 2024, representing trillions in notional exposure. Range Perps bring that concept onchain in a way that’s simple to use and built for crypto.

Parsa is now live at parsa.finance, with more updates coming soon.

About Parsa

Parsa is the first decentralized exchange for Range Perpetuals, a new class of onchain derivatives that allow traders to earn funding yield within defined price bands. Founded by a team of DeFi-native builders and researchers, Parsa makes it possible to trade volatility, time, and price behavior through a simple, composable product built for the next generation of crypto markets.

Contact:
Niteesh Settypalli
niteesh@parsalabs.com

Disclaimer: This is a paid post and is provided by Parsa. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/98ff3c55-80ca-4a94-a077-baa35186d233

The MIL Network –

May 15, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Reimagining WTO Dispute Settlement: a business case for mediation
Source: International Chamber of Commerce

Headline: Reimagining WTO Dispute Settlement: a business case for mediation
Share this:
Mediation: A forgotten piece in WTO dispute resolution

Most trade frictions never reach WTO dispute settlement. Many business concerns – licensing delays, technical barriers or opaque procedures – disrupt trade but are too small, sensitive or costly to escalate to formal dispute settlement.

That’s where alternative dispute resolution (ADR), and more specifically mediation, comes in. WTO rules already allow for it, but the tool has not been used, among other things, due to a lack of clear procedures.

That’s changing.

As part of the WTO reform process, WTO Members are discussing procedural rules to make mediation a workable option – and we can help accelerate this process by supporting governments willing to pilot mediation in practice.

Why it matters

For business

Companies face real costs from unresolved trade frictions. Mediation offers a practical and quicker way to resolve issues – and businesses can help identify where it’s needed.

For governments

Mediation gives WTO Members a lower-risk, lower-cost path to resolve trade issues early. It is especially important for developing countries that may lack resources for litigation.

The benefits of WTO mediation

Enables early, informal resolution of trade concerns

Reduces time, cost, and legal burden

Promotes cooperation—not confrontation

Offers a flexible and confidential process

No imposed ruling—outcomes are mutually agreed

What we are doing

ICC is advocating for the use of ADR, and in particular mediation within the WTO dispute settlement system as part of broader reform efforts. Drawing on ICC’s extensive experience as the world’s leading institution in cross-border dispute resolution, we’re supporting efforts to make mediation a practical option for resolving trade frictions more effectively.

How you can get involved

We are actively seeking companies with unresolved trade concerns who are willing to engage their governments in pilot mediation cases. These cases can help demonstrate how WTO mediation can deliver fast, practical outcomes and strengthen trust in the rules-based system.

Contact Valerie Picard, Head of Trade, ICC, Valerie.Picard@iccwbo.org to learn more or explore a pilot case.

Related publications
MIL OSI Economics –
May 15, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Oregon Delegation: Seven Airports In State Earn More Than $22 Million in Federal Grants

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)
May 14, 2025
Airports in Portland, Hillsboro, Bend, Eugene, Corvallis, Burns and Joseph secure infrastructure investments
Washington, D.C. – Oregon lawmakers today announced that seven airports in the Portland metro area, the Willamette Valley, Central Oregon and Eastern Oregon have secured about $22.7 million combined in federal grants for infrastructure improvements to taxiways, drainage, snow removal equipment and more.
“These federal investments to modernize and improve airports large and small throughout our state benefit Oregonians relying on these facilities for their communities’ economic health and for everybody’s safety during wildfires and other emergencies,” Wyden said. “I’m gratified these resources are heading to Oregon, and I’ll keep battling to provide similar funds for airports all across our state.”
“Oregon’s regional airports serve as vital hubs for our communities, including supporting local businesses and providing essential lifelines during natural disasters,” Merkley said. “This federal funding will allow several Oregon regional airports to tackle important projects like expanding taxiways, construction projects, and new equipment. I’ll continue to fight to ensure Oregon has the resources for safe and efficient travels for the folks who rely on Oregon’s airports.”
“I’m pleased to see that airports in NW Oregon and across the state are receiving federal investments to improve the reliability of our transportation system,” said Rep. Bonamici. “Because of these modernization projects, Oregonians and anyone traveling to our beautiful state for business or pleasure will be safer. I will continue to advocate for other important transportation and infrastructure projects that will help Oregonians and the Oregon economy thrive.”
“Airports are vital infrastructure for our communities—supporting local economies, emergency response, and everyday travel for Oregonians,” said Rep. Hoyle. “I’m proud to see federal investments coming to Eugene and Corvallis to improve safety, modernize facilities, and prepare these airports for future growth. These upgrades will make a real difference for our region, and I’ll keep fighting for resources that strengthen our transportation and infrastructure.”
“I’m glad to see these federal investments coming to airports across Oregon,” said Rep. Salinas. “Modernizing and improving Oregon’s airport infrastructure is critical to the safety and economic growth of communities both large and small. I’ll keep fighting to deliver the resources that Oregonians need and deserve.”
“It’s important to me that as people come in and out of our beautiful state that we give them the best possible experience,” said Rep. Bynum. “This funding provides the resources to do just that, improving safety and reliability and helping Oregon airports modernize and grow. I was ecstatic to see this announcement, and I’ll always fight for projects that improve Oregonians’ quality of life.”
“Investing in our airports means investing in the safety, connectivity, and economic strength of our communities,” said Rep. Dexter. “I’m thrilled that more than $15 million is headed to PDX. This funding—fueled by the Biden Administration’s historic infrastructure investments—is a clear example of what it looks like when the federal government shows up for local communities.”
The $22.7 million in airport improvement grants from the Federal Aviation Administration will be distributed as follows:
$15.22 million to the Port of Portland for Portland International Airport to rebuild 2,700 feet of the existing paved taxiway A pavement that’s reached the end of its useful life.
$3.14 million to the Port of Portland for Hillsboro Airport to build a new 1,300-foot taxiway K to reduce delays and accommodate more aircraft operations.
$2.14 million to Bend Municipal Airport to rehabilitate 12,000 feet of the existing southwest, northwest, and west taxi lanes pavement to extend their useful lives.
$1.66 million for Eugene’s Mahlon Sweet Airport to build new airfield drainage for wetland mitigation to bring the airport into conformity with current standards.
$261,938 for Corvallis Municipal Airport to build a new 1,100-foot taxi lane to provide airfield access to a non-exclusive hangar development area to bring the airport into conformity with current standards.
$215,000 for Burns Municipal Airport to acquire snow removal equipment.
$76,000 to Joseph State Airport to reseal 5,210 feet of existing Runway 15/33 pavement and joints to extend its useful life. This project reseals 6,990 feet of the existing Taxiway A pavement and joints to extend its useful life.
“Reconstructing and adding taxiways at PDX and Hillsboro Airport is vital to maintaining the transportation system that our region relies on,” said Curtis Robinhold, Executive Director of the Port of Portland. “We appreciate the continued support of Senators Wyden and Merkley on projects that help to ensure safe and efficient operations at our airports.”
“Funding for this important airport capital improvement project will support asphalt patching, crack sealing and repair, surface sealing, and new painted striping on paved surfaces at the Bend Municipal Airport,” said Airport Manager Tracy Williams.
“On behalf of the City of Burns and the Burns Municipal Airport, we sincerely appreciate the recent grant awarded by the Federal Aviation Administration for the acquisition of essential snow removal equipment,” said City Manager Judy Erwin. “This funding will significantly enhance our operational capabilities during the winter season, ensuring safer and more reliable service for all airport users. The support from the FAA continues to be instrumental in maintaining and improving the safety and efficiency of our airport infrastructure. This equipment will allow us to better serve general aviation, emergency services, and regional operations, especially during severe weather conditions.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 15, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Wyden Demands Senate Vote on Trump’s Compliance with Anti-Corruption Foreign Emoluments Clause

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)
May 14, 2025
Washington D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR) said today he is demanding Senate Republican leadership hold a vote to stop Donald Trump from accepting payments and gifts from foreign governments after Senate Republicans blocked a resolution led by Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT).
The resolution followed Trump’s acceptance of a $400 million luxury jet from the royal family of Qatar and foreign agents potentially funneling millions directly to the Trump family through a cryptocurrency scheme.
Wyden joined seven senate colleagues in a letter to U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD), reminding him the Foreign Emoluments Clause of the Constitution states, “no Person holding any Office of Profit or Trust under them, shall, without the Consent of the Congress, accept of any present, Emolument, Office, or Title, of any kind whatever, from any King, Prince, or foreign State.”
“President Trump has brazenly flouted the protections implemented by the Founders to avoid improper influence—his constitutional duty to seek the approval of Congress before accepting benefits from foreign governments—not only with respect to Qatar, but numerous other foreign governments,” the senators wrote.
“There is clear evidence that President Trump is directly profiting from funds received from foreign governments without the consent of Congress, in direct violation of his constitutional obligation and his oath of office,” the senators continued. “We cannot allow the President to blithely ignore his constitutional duties nor trample on Congress’s oversight role in stemming corruption and foreign influence—if the President refuses to seek our approval for the acceptance of foreign benefits, then we must hold him accountable in court.”
In addition to Wyden and Blumenthal, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Peter Welch (D-CT), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and Adam Schiff (D-CA).
The full text of the letter is here.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 15, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Foot and Mouth disease controls eased for Germany
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

News story

Foot and Mouth disease controls eased for Germany

Personal imports for travellers from the EU remain banned
Following rigorous technical assessment, Great Britain has officially recognised Germany as Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) free without vaccination as of 14 May 2025.

As a result, restrictions previously applied to imports of affected commodities from the containment zone in Germany have now been lifted. This means that exports of FMD-susceptible animals, such as cattle, pigs, sheep, deer and buffaloes, and their products, such as meat and dairy, can resume from the containment zone, provided that all other import conditions are met. This decision follows rigorous technical assessment of the measures applied in Germany and the current disease situation. If the situation changes, we will not hesitate to take necessary action in response to the FMD outbreaks in the European Union to protect our domestic biosecurity.

Personal import restrictions remain in place that prevent travellers from bringing cattle, sheep, goat, and pig meat, as well as dairy products, from EU countries into Great Britain for personal use, to protect the health of British livestock, the security of farmers, and the UK’s food security. This includes bringing items like sandwiches, cheese, cured meats, raw meats or milk into Great Britain – regardless of whether it is packed or packaged or whether it has been bought at duty free.

FMD poses no risk to human or food safety, but is a highly contagious viral disease of cattle, sheep, pigs and other cloven-hoofed animals. Livestock keepers should therefore be absolutely rigorous about their biosecurity.

FMD is a notifiable disease and must be reported. If you suspect foot and mouth disease in your animals, you must report it immediately by calling:  

03000 200 301 in England   

0300 303 8268 in Wales   

your local Field Services Office in Scotland

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Published 14 May 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
May 15, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: “Average earners’ tax bills would fall under House tax package, forecasters say”

US Senate News:

Source: The White House
Under President Donald J. Trump’s One Big, Beautiful Bill, everyday Americans will see a significant decrease in the taxes they owe, Politico reports.
“Average-income people would see double-digit percentage declines in their tax bills under House Republicans’ tax package, according to a new official analysis that’s sure to inflame partisan fights over who would get what under the plan.
Those making between $30,000 and $80,000 would pay around 15 percent less in taxes in 2027, the report by the nonpartisan Joint Committee on Taxation shows.”
Click here to read the full article.
Click here to see the official analysis from the Joint Committee on Taxation.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 15, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Secures Historic $1.2 Trillion Economic Commitment in Qatar

US Senate News:

Source: The White House
MAKING AMERICAN MANUFACTURING AND INNOVATION GREAT AGAIN: Today in Qatar, President Donald J. Trump signed an agreement with Qatar to generate an economic exchange worth at least $1.2 trillion. President Trump also announced economic deals totaling more than $243.5 billion between the United States and Qatar, including an historic sale of Boeing aircraft and GE Aerospace engines to Qatar Airways.
The landmark deals celebrated today will drive innovation and prosperity for generations, bolster American manufacturing and technological leadership, and put America on the path to a new Golden Age.
Since President Trump took office, his commitment to American manufacturing and innovation has attracted trillions of dollars in investments and global commercial deals. Allies like Qatar are partnering in the United States’ success.
The following represent just a few of the many groundbreaking deals secured in Qatar:
Boeing and GE Aerospace secured a landmark order from Qatar Airways, a $96 billion agreement to acquire up to 210 American-made Boeing 787 Dreamliner and 777X aircraft powered by GE Aerospace engines. This is Boeing’s largest-ever widebody order and largest-ever 787 order. This historic agreement will support 154,000 U.S. jobs annually, totaling over 1 million jobs in the United States during the course of production and delivery of this deal.
McDermott has a strong partnership with Qatar Energy in advancing critical energy infrastructure, with seven active projects worth $8.5 billion. As the sole provider of offshore components for Qatar’s major LNG expansion, McDermott’s work directly supports thousands of U.S. energy sector jobs.
Parsons has successfully won 30 projects worth up to $97 billion. These high-value engagements have fueled significant company growth, supporting thousands of jobs across the United States and reinforcing American leadership in cutting-edge engineering and innovation.
Quantinuum finalized a Joint Venture Agreement with Al Rabban Capital, a prominent Qatari company, to invest up to $1 billion in state-of-the-art quantum technologies and workforce development in the United States, supporting U.S. jobs and leadership in this critical emerging technology.

Today’s signings mark President Trump’s intent to accelerate Qatar’s defense investment in the U.S.-Qatar security partnership—enhancing regional deterrence and benefitting the U.S. industrial base.
The defense deals secured today lock in Qatar’s procurement of state-of-the-art military equipment from two leading U.S. defense companies.
Raytheon, an RTX business, secured a $1 billion agreement for Qatar’s acquisition of counter-drone capabilities, signed by the U.S. and Qatari governments. This deal establishes Qatar as the first international customer for Raytheon’s Fixed Site – Low, Slow, Small Unmanned Aerial System Integrated Defeat System (FS-LIDS) designed to counter unmanned aircraft. The deal directly supports high-skilled manufacturing and engineering jobs in the United States and reinforces America’s leadership in innovative defense technologies.
General Atomics secured a nearly $2 billion agreement for Qatar’s acquisition of the MQ-9B remotely piloted aircraft system, signed by the U.S. and Qatari governments. This deal will strengthen the U.S.-Qatar bilateral relationship and provide the Qatari Armed Forces with the most advanced multi-mission remotely piloted aircraft in the world, powered by U.S. products made in America.
The United States and Qatar also signed a statement of intent to further strengthen our security partnership, outlining over $38 billion in potential investments including support for burden-sharing at Al Udeid Air Base and future defense capabilities related to air defense and maritime security.

These new agreements and instruments aim to drive the growth of the U.S.-Qatar bilateral commercial relationship, create thousands of well-paying jobs, and open new trade and investment opportunities for both countries over the coming decade and beyond.
CATALYZING PROSPERITY THROUGH GREATER TRADE AND INVESTMENT: The United States and Qatar have a long history of trade and a strong commercial relationship, including significant long-term aviation, critical infrastructure, information technology, and consulting deals.
Qatar’s strategic goals outlined in Qatar National Vision 2030 create opportunities for U.S. businesses in multiple sectors.
The United States had a $2 billion trade surplus with Qatar in 2024 and has had a positive trade balance with Qatar since 2003.
In 2024, U.S.-Qatar trade totaled $5.64 billion, with $3.8 billion in U.S. exports and $1.8 billion in Qatari imports.
Qatar’s greenfield investment in the United States totaled $3.3 billion in 2023, focused on hotels and tourism, information technology, advanced manufacturing, financial services, and oil and gas.

This visit advances opportunities for U.S. companies to expand long-standing partnerships and for Qatari entities to embrace U.S. technologies, adopt best practices, and finalize new agreements for significant sales and investments.
Qatar has made significant investments in the United States across hotels and tourism, financial services, technology, healthcare, and energy, with plans to invest even more over the next five years. These investments strengthen the U.S. economy by supporting good-paying jobs for millions of American workers, expanding U.S. exports, and funding research and development.
Qatar has the third largest proven reserves of natural gas in the world, and has invested in American energy infrastructure, directly contributing to U.S. energy security and industrial resilience.
Starting in 2019, QatarEnergy initiated $18 billion in investments in the U.S. energy sector with ExxonMobil’s Golden Pass LNG Terminal ($10 billion) and Chevron Phillips Chemical’s Golden Triangle Polymers Plant ($8 billion), both located on the Texas Gulf Coast.

Qatar is our 12th largest Foreign Military Sales partner with active cases valued at more than $26 billion.
Qatar’s expansive investment in and trade with the United States contribute to U.S. and Qatari economic growth and prosperity, and Qatar’s choice of U.S. industry’s best-fit solutions supports the U.S. strategic goal of growing our industrial presence throughout the Gulf and the region as a whole.
THE ART OF THE DEAL: President Trump is securing billions in investments to revitalize American manufacturing, delivering on his promise to bring back “Made in America” and usher in a new Golden Age of prosperity.
Today’s announcement builds on yesterday’s $600 billion investment commitment secured in Saudi Arabia.
It also follows the announcement of an historic trade agreement with the United Kingdom and a joint agreement with China to reduce reciprocal tariffs.
By securing these investments, President Trump is spurring a manufacturing renaissance, driving economic growth, and creating high-paying jobs across the nation.
Prior to this historic deal, President Trump had already attracted trillions in U.S.-based investments, laying the foundation for an era of unprecedented American prosperity.
President Trump is building on his record of success with Qatar, exemplified by his leadership in the 2019 GE Aerospace GEnx engine sale to power Qatar Airways’ then-newly acquired Boeing 787-9 aircraft—a monumental purchase in the history of both companies.
As the dealmaker in chief, President Trump’s latest achievement in Qatar is another win for America.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 15, 2025
MIL-OSI USA News: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Secures Historic $1.2 Trillion Economic Commitment in Qatar
Source: The White House
MAKING AMERICAN MANUFACTURING AND INNOVATION GREAT AGAIN: Today in Qatar, President Donald J. Trump signed an agreement with Qatar to generate an economic exchange worth at least $1.2 trillion. President Trump also announced economic deals totaling more than $243.5 billion between the United States and Qatar, including an historic sale of Boeing aircraft and GE Aerospace engines to Qatar Airways.
- The landmark deals celebrated today will drive innovation and prosperity for generations, bolster American manufacturing and technological leadership, and put America on the path to a new Golden Age.
- Since President Trump took office, his commitment to American manufacturing and innovation has attracted trillions of dollars in investments and global commercial deals. Allies like Qatar are partnering in the United States’ success.
- The following represent just a few of the many groundbreaking deals secured in Qatar:
  
  Boeing and GE Aerospace secured a landmark order from Qatar Airways, a $96 billion agreement to acquire up to 210 American-made Boeing 787 Dreamliner and 777X aircraft powered by GE Aerospace engines. This is Boeing’s largest-ever widebody order and largest-ever 787 order. This historic agreement will support 154,000 U.S. jobs annually, totaling over 1 million jobs in the United States during the course of production and delivery of this deal.
  
  McDermott has a strong partnership with Qatar Energy in advancing critical energy infrastructure, with seven active projects worth $8.5 billion. As the sole provider of offshore components for Qatar’s major LNG expansion, McDermott’s work directly supports thousands of U.S. energy sector jobs.
  
  Parsons has successfully won 30 projects worth up to $97 billion. These high-value engagements have fueled significant company growth, supporting thousands of jobs across the United States and reinforcing American leadership in cutting-edge engineering and innovation.
  
  Quantinuum finalized a Joint Venture Agreement with Al Rabban Capital, a prominent Qatari company, to invest up to $1 billion in state-of-the-art quantum technologies and workforce development in the United States, supporting U.S. jobs and leadership in this critical emerging technology.
- Today’s signings mark President Trump’s intent to accelerate Qatar’s defense investment in the U.S.-Qatar security partnership—enhancing regional deterrence and benefitting the U.S. industrial base.
  
  The defense deals secured today lock in Qatar’s procurement of state-of-the-art military equipment from two leading U.S. defense companies.
  
  Raytheon, an RTX business, secured a $1 billion agreement for Qatar’s acquisition of counter-drone capabilities, signed by the U.S. and Qatari governments. This deal establishes Qatar as the first international customer for Raytheon’s Fixed Site – Low, Slow, Small Unmanned Aerial System Integrated Defeat System (FS-LIDS) designed to counter unmanned aircraft. The deal directly supports high-skilled manufacturing and engineering jobs in the United States and reinforces America’s leadership in innovative defense technologies.
  
  General Atomics secured a nearly $2 billion agreement for Qatar’s acquisition of the MQ-9B remotely piloted aircraft system, signed by the U.S. and Qatari governments. This deal will strengthen the U.S.-Qatar bilateral relationship and provide the Qatari Armed Forces with the most advanced multi-mission remotely piloted aircraft in the world, powered by U.S. products made in America.
  
  The United States and Qatar also signed a statement of intent to further strengthen our security partnership, outlining over $38 billion in potential investments including support for burden-sharing at Al Udeid Air Base and future defense capabilities related to air defense and maritime security.
- These new agreements and instruments aim to drive the growth of the U.S.-Qatar bilateral commercial relationship, create thousands of well-paying jobs, and open new trade and investment opportunities for both countries over the coming decade and beyond.
CATALYZING PROSPERITY THROUGH GREATER TRADE AND INVESTMENT: The United States and Qatar have a long history of trade and a strong commercial relationship, including significant long-term aviation, critical infrastructure, information technology, and consulting deals.
- Qatar’s strategic goals outlined in Qatar National Vision 2030 create opportunities for U.S. businesses in multiple sectors.
- The United States had a $2 billion trade surplus with Qatar in 2024 and has had a positive trade balance with Qatar since 2003.
  
  In 2024, U.S.-Qatar trade totaled $5.64 billion, with $3.8 billion in U.S. exports and $1.8 billion in Qatari imports.
  
  Qatar’s greenfield investment in the United States totaled $3.3 billion in 2023, focused on hotels and tourism, information technology, advanced manufacturing, financial services, and oil and gas.
- This visit advances opportunities for U.S. companies to expand long-standing partnerships and for Qatari entities to embrace U.S. technologies, adopt best practices, and finalize new agreements for significant sales and investments.
  
  Qatar has made significant investments in the United States across hotels and tourism, financial services, technology, healthcare, and energy, with plans to invest even more over the next five years. These investments strengthen the U.S. economy by supporting good-paying jobs for millions of American workers, expanding U.S. exports, and funding research and development.
  
  Qatar has the third largest proven reserves of natural gas in the world, and has invested in American energy infrastructure, directly contributing to U.S. energy security and industrial resilience.
  
  Starting in 2019, QatarEnergy initiated $18 billion in investments in the U.S. energy sector with ExxonMobil’s Golden Pass LNG Terminal ($10 billion) and Chevron Phillips Chemical’s Golden Triangle Polymers Plant ($8 billion), both located on the Texas Gulf Coast.
- Qatar is our 12th largest Foreign Military Sales partner with active cases valued at more than $26 billion.
- Qatar’s expansive investment in and trade with the United States contribute to U.S. and Qatari economic growth and prosperity, and Qatar’s choice of U.S. industry’s best-fit solutions supports the U.S. strategic goal of growing our industrial presence throughout the Gulf and the region as a whole.
THE ART OF THE DEAL: President Trump is securing billions in investments to revitalize American manufacturing, delivering on his promise to bring back “Made in America” and usher in a new Golden Age of prosperity.
- Today’s announcement builds on yesterday’s $600 billion investment commitment secured in Saudi Arabia.
- It also follows the announcement of an historic trade agreement with the United Kingdom and a joint agreement with China to reduce reciprocal tariffs.
- By securing these investments, President Trump is spurring a manufacturing renaissance, driving economic growth, and creating high-paying jobs across the nation.
- Prior to this historic deal, President Trump had already attracted trillions in U.S.-based investments, laying the foundation for an era of unprecedented American prosperity.
- President Trump is building on his record of success with Qatar, exemplified by his leadership in the 2019 GE Aerospace GEnx engine sale to power Qatar Airways’ then-newly acquired Boeing 787-9 aircraft—a monumental purchase in the history of both companies.
- As the dealmaker in chief, President Trump’s latest achievement in Qatar is another win for America.
MIL OSI USA News –
May 15, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: News 05/14/2025 Blackburn, Blumenthal, Thune, and Schumer Introduce the Kids Online Safety Act
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Richard Blumenthal(D-Conn.) were joined by U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) and U.S. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) in introducing the bipartisan Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA). Last July, the Senate approved KOSA – the first major reform to the tech industry since 1998 – in an overwhelming 91-3 bipartisan vote.

“Big Tech platforms have shown time and time again they will always prioritize their bottom line over the safety of our children, and I’ve heard too many heartbreaking stories to count from parents who have lost a child because these companies have refused to make their platforms safer by default,” said Senator Blackburn. “We would never allow our children to be exposed to pornography, sexual exploitation, drugs, alcohol, and traffickers in the physical space, but these platforms are allowing this every single day in the virtual space. Congress must not cave to the wills and whims of Big Tech, and we must not be bullied into submission. Now is the time to stand up and protect future generations from harm by passing KOSA.”

“Senator Blackburn and I made a promise to parents and young people when we started fighting together for the Kids Online Safety Act – we will make this bill law. There’s undeniable awareness of the destructive harms caused by Big Tech’s exploitive, addictive algorithms, and inescapable momentum for reform,” said Senator Blumenthal. “I am grateful to Senators Thune and Schumer for their leadership and to our Senate colleagues for their overwhelming bipartisan support. KOSA is an idea whose time has come – in fact, it’s urgently overdue – and even tech companies like X and Apple are realizing that the status quo is unsustainable. Our coalition is bigger and stronger than ever before, and we are committed to seeing this measure protecting children on the internet signed into law.”

“I have been a longtime advocate for holding Big Tech accountable for its manipulative algorithms,” said Majority Leader Thune. “Consumers deserve more transparency about how these platforms amplify and suppress content, which is why I’m proud to support the Kids Online Safety Act. Senator Blackburn has done a tremendous amount of work to deliver a bill that takes real steps to empower families and mitigate the harm social media can do to children, and I’m grateful for her leadership on the issue.”

“I am proud to support this bipartisan legislation which provides necessary guardrails to protect our kids. Too many kids have had their personal data collected and used nefariously. Too many families have lost kids after they took their own lives because of what happened to them on social media,” said Minority Leader Schumer. “I thank these brave parents and families for sharing their stories. Keeping our kids safe from online threats should not be a partisan issue, I thank my Senate colleagues for championing these bills and I look forward to swift passage.”

BACKGROUND
- Last month, bombshell reporting revealed Meta’s latest failure to protect minors from harm after AI-powered digital chatbots engaged in sexually explicit discussions with underaged users on its platforms. Following this report, Senators Blackburn and Blumenthal sent a letter demanding accountability.
- Earlier this month, an additional report revealed Instagram’s automated software systems recommended child groomers connect with minors on the app and made it easier for them to find victims, according to a 2019 internal document presented by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The report noted that minors made up 27% of the follow recommendations that the social media app surfaced to groomers, and about one-third of the reports flagging inappropriate comments to the company came from minors.
- The bill text introduced today was first announced in December and is the same language approved by the Senate with several changes to further make clear that KOSA would not censor, limit, or remove any content from the internet, and it does not give the FTC or state Attorneys General the power to bring lawsuits over content or speech.
- KOSA is strongly supported by a broad coalition of parents who have tragically lost their children or whose kids have been severely harmed by Big Tech, young people who want to regain control over their online lives, and hundreds of advocacy groups and experts who study and see the negative effects of social media firsthand in their communities.
ENDORSEMENTS

This legislation has been endorsed by more than 250 national, state, and local organizations. Today, Appleannounced its endorsement of the legislation, and the bill has also garnered broad conservative support from key advocates like Elon Musk, Donald Trump Jr., Kellyanne Conway, Harmeet Dhillon, Richard Grenell, Sebastian Gorka, and more.

“Apple is pleased to offer our support for the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA). Everyone has a part to play in keeping kids safe online, and we believe [this] legislation will have a meaningful impact on children’s online safety,” said Timothy Powderly, Senior Director, Government Affairs, Americas, Apple.

“I lost my 16-year-old son Mason in November of 2022 when he took his own life. This was only after he was inundated for several weeks by TikTok videos promoting suicide. There are no words to express the pain my family now lives with every single day. Big Tech will always put their profits over the safety of American children and it is my hope that this bipartisan legislation will quickly pass through the current Congress. Unlike Big Tech there is nothing more important to American families than our children and we need help to protect them from these dangerous platforms.” said Jennie Deserio, mother of Mason James Edens, forever 16.

“We are so grateful to Senators Blackburn and Blumenthal for reintroducing the Kids Online Safety Act as the need for this bill remains profound. . We have waited and fought long enough, yet our children continue to face severe harms in online spaces where they should feel safe. This legislation is a collective plea from parents, like me, and in remembrance of my daughter Annalee, for meaningful social media reform. Another Mother’s Day and another full year has passed without my daughter and with our children’s futures at stake. It’s past time for change. Children deserve to have their voices heard, their rights protected, and their well-being prioritized by Congress,” said Lori Schott, mother of Annalee Schott, forever 18.

“I am so relieved today that Senators Blackburn and Blumenthal have reintroduced the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA). Yet, it’s only a small victory – we still desperately need Congress to actually act on this popular, bipartisan bill and make it law. My daughter, Emily, died by suicide after a year of intense cyberbullying when she was only 17. Last year, we were so close to protecting other children from the same unthinkable fate when the Senate passed this bill and it was heartbreaking when it later stalled in the House. Too many parents like me have paid the ultimate price because of Big Tech’s greed and recklessness towards children’s lives. Our lawmakers must no longer allow this to continue unchecked. This must end now by passing KOSA,” said Erin Popolo, mother of Emily Michaela Murillo, forever 17.

“I am so thankful for brave leaders like Senator Marsha Blackburn and Senator Richard Blumenthal who are willing to stand-up to Big Tech and support the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA), a popular bipartisan bill that will provide important protections for youth online. My 17-year-old son, Alex Peiser, died by suicide after he was bullied online and sent pro-suicide memes on his private Instagram account, three days after a break-up. If KOSA had been in effect, protections would have been in place that might have prevented his death. Congress had a remarkable opportunity last year to make KOSA law and implement the first reforms of social media in more than 25 years. They can stand together now for children’s online safety by passing KOSA this session without delay,” said Sharon Winkler, mother of Alex Peiser, forever 17.

“I lost my son Walker December 1, 2022, to suicide after he became a victim of sextortion. Walker was attacked through Instagram where a man from Nigeria was able to extort him over a sexually explicit video. Today, I attended Walker’s school where we honored the seniors. Walker’s classmates are graduating this week and he should be there. As long as tech companies have the ability to self-regulate we will continue to lose other teens just like Walker. Thank you Senator Blackburn and Blumenthal for standing up to this industry,” said Brian Montgomery, father of Walker Montgomery, forever 16.

“For years, grieving parents have shown up to tell their stories, and Congress has promised to act. The Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) has been vetted, revised, and supported by both parties—and it would give families the tools they desperately need to protect their children. After coming so close last year, there’s no excuse for letting this moment slip away, KOSA’s reintroduction is a second chance we cannot afford to waste,” said Maurine Molak, mother of David Molak, forever 16, co-founder of David’s Legacy Foundation & ParentsSOS.

“Thank you Senators Blackburn and Blumenthal for your leadership with the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA). Our son, Devin Norring, died at the age of 19 to fentanyl poisoning after a drug dealer connected with him on Snapchat. Devin was just trying to manage his pain during the COVID lockdown from a cracked molar, but instead he was targeted and lost his life. No parent should ever have to endure this immense pain that we are now forced to live with every day. KOSA is a vital step toward giving families the tools they need to protect their children online while also holding tech companies accountable. Your efforts mean more than we could ever express to families like ours who are fighting every single day to make sure this doesn’t happen to anyone else,” said Bridgette & Tom Norring, parents of Devin Norring, forever 19.

“We are so proud of and encouraged by Senator Blumenthal’s and Senator Blackburn’s reintroduction of KOSA. This legislation is timely and needed for America’s children and families. We still feel the loss of our son, Matthew E. Minor, every day. Matthew was a bright and loving child who, at age 12 was exposed to a viral online challenge sent to him by social media’s relentless algorithms. Tragically, he tried it, and accidentally asphyxiated himself. Every delay in passing this bill means putting more of our precious children’s lives at risk. We live with the overwhelmingly tragic memories of losing our child constantly and want to keep other families from experiencing the same pain . As a nation, we are as complicit as Big Tech if we do nothing to improve the safety of social media. Regulations, like those required in KOSA, should be in place to help mitigate online harms. It’s time that Congress says yes to keeping our children safe online. Pass KOSA Now!!” said Todd & Mia Minor, Parents of Matthew E. Minor, forever 12, co-founders of the Matthew E. Minor Awareness Foundation.

“The shattering loss of my joyful daughter Grace thirteen years ago compelled me to repeatedly speak out about social media dangers to anyone who would listen. Smartphones and social media were new then and I felt I had an alarm bell to ring. That bell is still clanging and though risk and harm to our children is now clear, rescue has failed to arrive and children are still dying. Senators Blumenthal and Blackburn bring hope with the reintroduction of Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA). Last year, Senators of all stripes sat down with parents, shared our grief, learned about the many and varied harms our children suffered, and then passed KOSA by a resounding 91 to 3 vote. It should have been smooth sailing through the U.S. House as well, but Leadership wouldn’t even meet with parents or bring this lifesaving legislation to the floor for a vote. If they fail once more, it won’t be for lack of evidence. It will be because they chose Big Tech’s money over the lives of American children again,” said Christine Pfister McComas, mother of Grace, forever 15, Grace McComas Memorial.

“I lost my son, Erik Robinson to accidental asphyxiation 15 years ago when he was just 12-years-old because of a viral challenge that others had promised was “safe.” Back then we had no idea that algorithms targeted kids with such dangerous material. However, we now know that these platforms are only out to make money and do not care how their platforms target and affect children. It breaks my heart that thousands of other kids have also died since Erik’s death as a result of an immense menu of harms that target kids online. Legislation like the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) would help mitigate many of these harms and save lives. I urge Congress to say “yes” and help keep kids safe with KOSA,” said Judy Rogg, mother of Erik Robinson, forever 12, Co-founder and Director of Erik’s Cause.

“It’s been more than four years since I lost my son, Riley, to suicide when he was only 15 years old after a sinister stranger found him on Facebook and sextorted him. One of the few ways I’ve found to cope since then is to advocate for social media reforms that will protect other children from the abuse Riley experienced. Which is why the reintroduction of the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) is so critical. This transformative legislation will finally hold Big Tech accountable for the algorithms and designs they use to prey on the most vulnerable among us simply because it adds to their hefty bottom line. It’s unconscionable and Congress must step in now to require they create a safer product, because we know they can. KOSA will do just that,” said Mary Rodee, mother of Riley Basford, forever 15.

“My world imploded in May 2019 when my 15-year-old son Mason died of accidental asphyxiation. The cause? The ‘blackout challenge,’ a viral social media trend. No child should die because they were innocently scrolling online and no product manufacturer, in this case Big Tech, should be allowed to peddle such harmful products. Cars have to have seat belts. Milk has to have an expiration date. Social media platforms should be required to have meaningful, effective, safety features as well. The Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) includes those necessary guardrails by mandating a change to the algorithms that send kids such destructive content unsolicited. If Congress would finally pass this bill and make it law, it would be a complete game-changer for children and families across America.” said Joann Bogard, mother of Mason Bogard, forever 15.

“There’s a lie going around that vigilant parents – the ones who regularly check their children’s phones, read their texts, are “friends” on their feeds – can keep their kids safe online. I learned in the absolute worst way how untrue this is. I lost my daughter Coco, just 17, after an Instagram drug dealer sold her counterfeit Percocet laced with fentanyl. We parents are no match for Big Tech and their multi-million-dollar lobbying arm working tirelessly to keep their products unregulated so they can earn billions off of our kids, no matter the harm caused along the way. The Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA), would finally put an end to this uncontrolled greed and I know it would have saved Coco’s life. It came so close to passage last year and I am so grateful to Senators Blackburn and Blumenthal for not giving up and reintroducing it again now. I can only hope this time around their Congressional colleagues will see fit to choose kids over Big Tech’s profits and make KOSA law once and for all,” said Julianna Arnold, mother of Lucienne “Coco” Konar, forever 17.

“My daughter McKenna was an accomplished athlete and scholar, kind to her core, and deeply loyal to those she loved. She had such a promising, rich, life ahead of her. But three years ago she died by suicide after being horribly cyberbullied on social media. She was only 16. Had the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) been law, I am certain she would still be with us today. This bill requires that social media platforms take a safety-by-design approach, which is the precise opposite of their profits-at-any-cost approach right now. KOSA would make sure that too-often lethal harms like cyberbullying are no longer allowed to run rampant, ruining children’s and family’s lives forever. Thank you to Senators Blumenthal and Blackburn for reintroducing this life-saving bill. I urge every lawmaker in D.C. to pass KOSA without delay,” said Cheryl Brown, mother of McKenna Brown, forever 16.

“My son Bubba was just 13 years old when he died by accidental asphyxiation after trying a so-called viral ‘challenge’ he saw online. He was a brilliant student, full of promise, and he never should have been exposed to content that could cost him his life. That responsibility lies with Big Tech CEOs who have built business models that exploit our children’s attention with no regard for their well-being. Last year, the Senate overwhelmingly passed KOSA, proving that protecting kids online is not a partisan issue. But the House failed to act. That’s why I’m incredibly grateful to Senators Blumenthal and Blackburn for reviving this critical bill. KOSA is long overdue. I truly believe my son would still be here today if these safeguards had been in place. My plea to lawmakers is simple: Congress hasn’t passed a single meaningful law to protect kids online in 25 years. How many more children have to die before you finally hold Big Tech accountable?” said Annie McGrath, mother of Griffin “Bubba” McGrath, forever 13.

“I have sat across from lawmakers on both sides of the aisle and told Becca’s story time and again. And still, there are no meaningful protections in place to prevent this from happening to another child. That is why the Kids Online Safety Act is so important. KOSA would finally require companies to design for safety instead of profit and give parents a fighting chance to protect their kids. I urge every member of Congress: do not let another year pass without action. Our children deserve better,” said Deb Schmill, mother of Becca Schmill, forever 18, Founder of the Becca Schmill Foundation.

“Selena was just 11 when she died by suicide after being exploited and overwhelmed on social media. I tried everything to protect her, but social media platforms like Snapchat were designed to pull her in and shut me out. KOSA would give parents a fighting chance. It would force companies to put safety first, and finally make them answer for the harm they’ve caused to families like mine through exposure to harmful cyberbullying. The reintroduction of KOSA represents a vital opportunity for Congress to finally implement necessary safeguards, ensuring that no other child falls victim to the same preventable dangers that took Selena from us,” said Tammy Rodriguez, mother of Selena Rodriguez, forever 11.

“My son Alexander was 14 when he died from fentanyl poisoning after a drug dealer on Snapchat sold him counterfeit oxycontin that had enough fentanyl to kill four adults. There should have been social restrictions in place to prevent his death and there should be such restrictions in place now. Congress had an opportunity to stop further online harms from happening by passing KOSA in 2024, the Senate prevailed and the House failed us and America’s children. I commend Senators Blackburn and Blumenthal for stepping up to the plate again and only hope that House Leadership will follow suit this time around and stop making profits a priority over children’s lives,” said Amy Neville, mother of Alexander Neville, forever 14.

“My son Ethan was 13 when he died as a result of accidental asphyxiation after participating in the online ‘Blackout Challenge.’ Had KOSA been in place, there is no doubt that my son would still be alive. Congress had an opportunity to save more children’s lives last year by passing KOSA, the Senate stepped up, but the House failed to do so. Now is the time for Congress to redefine the narrative and to stop allowing Big Tech to win and to stop them from killing more children. It is time for Congress to do the right thing and pass KOSA this year,” said Jeff Van Lith, father of Ethan Burke Van Lith, forever 13.

“KOSA is the first bill that would make these companies, like iFunny and Snapchat, responsible for preventing the kinds of harm that took my son from me. Congress has a second chance to do something real. We need them to take it,” said Michelle Servi, mother of Jack Servi, forever 16.

“The Kids Online Safety Act gives parents the tools they need—and have long pleaded for—to effectively oversee their children’s social media use. The legislation rightfully requires platforms to prioritize the well-being of young users over algorithms and design features that maximize user engagement. While some platforms have elected to implement varying degrees of safeguards, the Kids Online Safety Act creates consistency, fosters transparency, and critically, holds platforms accountable for profiting from addictive features and child exploitation,” said Annie Chestnut Tutor, Policy Analyst, Center for Technology and the Human Person, The Heritage Foundation.

“Our children need online protection plain and simple. The amount of victimization that occurs online is staggering. Law enforcement cannot protect our children in the current online environment, that is why KOSA is so important to our children,” said John Pizzuro, CEO of Raven.

“Every day, catastrophic numbers of children are exploited on social media platforms that have no protective guardrails. The proliferation of adult content and bad actors make the internet a perilous place for kids. The Kids Online Safety Act would introduce basic, commonsense protection that make these platforms safer for minors. Internet protections have not been updated by Congress since 1998, long before many of these platforms existed. It’s imperative that Congress act now to protect America’s kids,” said Penny Nance, CEO and President of Concerned Women for America Legislative Action Committee.

“I’m pleased the Senate has re-introduced the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA). There is indisputable harm happening to children at an industrial scale—reaching literally millions of children. KOSA would begin to address those harms. Parents say this is the #1 issue, above school violence, drugs, and bullying. Free speech protections are enshrined in explicit language in the bill. I look forward to lauding the efforts of all who see this bill through,” said Jonathan Haidt, social psychologist and author of The Anxious Generation.

“The reintroduction of KOSA is a test of whether Congress will finally stand with families instead of Big Tech. This bill has withstood years of scrutiny, has enormous bipartisan support, and is the only federal legislation that addresses the wide range of design-caused harms experienced by children every day online. Lawmakers must seize this moment and finally deliver the protections children need,” said Josh Golin, Executive Director of Fairplay.

“Protecting children is the most basic human decency. The technology world that has come into being over the last 20+ years has been strip-mining the minds of our next generation for profit. They have been darkening their souls. They have been playing to their fears and walling them up in their anxieties. And their vision is now to use the very isolation and instability that they have created and catalyzed to create dependence on them through AI. The Kids Online Safety Act will stop this. It will turn the page on the harms many kids have suffered and protect the next generation. It will hold the companies that have done this accountable,” said Tim Estes, Founder & CEO of AngelQ.

“The Eating Disorders Coalition for Research, Policy & Action remains committed to the passage of KOSA. We are encouraged to see the bill being reintroduced in the Senate and look forward to working with Congressional members to protect vulnerable young people against online harms,” said Christine Peat, PhD, FAED, LP, President of the Eating Disorders Coalition for Research, Policy, & Action.

“Street Grace is honored to support KOSA. We envision a world where no child is exploited and KOSA puts America on that path by adding transparency and accountability to the sites and platforms which are currently advertising to children with zero safeguards in place,” said Bob Rodgers, CEO of Street Grace.

“The Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) represents a vital and overdue step toward protecting our children from the growing threat of online exploitation. These predators are not abstract threats – they are in our homes, on our children’s phones, in their games, and across every digital platform they use daily. We need KOSA because our current system is failing our children. This legislation provides essential guardrails to ensure tech companies are accountable for the safety of minors and are required to design their platforms with the well-being of children in mind – not profit,” said Tammy Sneed, Director of Engage Together.

“This bill is a critical step toward holding tech companies accountable for designing online platforms with child safety in mind. For too long, predators have exploited the internet’s blind spots to target children for grooming and trafficking. By requiring platforms to proactively mitigate these harms and provide greater transparency and control to families, this legislation puts the safety of children first. We urge lawmakers to swiftly pass this bill and send a clear message: protecting children online is not optional—it’s a responsibility,” said Linda Smith (U.S. Congress 1995-99, Washington State Senate/House 1983-94), Founder & President of Shared Hope International.

“Parents have been left on their own to try to fend off a massive tech-induced crisis in American childhood from online platforms that are engineered to be maximally addictive. And the tech companies face zero accountability for how their products harm children, like how their algorithms help connect predators with child victims online. KOSA offers a needed solution by making social media platforms responsible for preventing and mitigating certain objective harms to minors, like sexual exploitation, in their product design and empowering authorities to hold them accountable if they don’t. It’s time to end Big Tech’s total impunity,” said Clare Morell, Fellow at the Ethics and Public Policy Center.

“In this digital age, the number of cybertips has skyrocketed from 1 million in 2012 to 36 million in 2023. Now more than ever, it is crucial to protect our children by ensuring they receive online safety training and by enacting legislation like the Kids Online Safety Act to hold tech platforms accountable and implement necessary safeguards,” said Ashlie Bryant, CEO of the 3Strands Global Foundation.

“Count on Mothers fully endorses KOSA. After surveying mothers across the political spectrum and all U.S. regions, and conducting a nationally representative focus group, we found overwhelming support for KOSA’s protections. Mothers are demanding accountability and a clear duty of care from tech companies. Across backgrounds and beliefs, they agree: it’s time for the federal government to require social media platforms to offer minors the tools to protect their privacy, safety, and mental health from addictive and harmful product designs,” said Count on Mothers.

“The Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) demands that the sanctity of family and the sacredness of childhood be treated as national priorities. American families cannot withstand this digital crisis without real protections and accountability for an industry that has gone unchecked for far too long. KOSA offers an indispensable shield for children, guarding them against corporate greed and reckless harm through a commonsense approach to online safety,” said Jason Frost, CEO of Wired Human.

“KOSA supports Digitally Intentional’s mission by prioritizing protection over profit, empowering families and safeguarding children from the manipulative corporate practices of Big Tech. Passing KOSA renews our nation’s commitments to another generation and for our country’s future,” said Harrison Haynes, Founder of Digitally Intentional and Chair of End OSEAC Survivors Council.

“We are grateful to the United States Senators that they are unflagging in their efforts to get the Kids Online Safety Act passed. This is no time for politics. America’s children are suffering from the worst mental health crisis in recorded history, and the literature is increasingly clear that the main driver is digital addiction. Social media are rife with abusive environments for children who get swept down dark rabbit holes by opaque algorithms. To make matters worse, the rise of A.I. chatbots that trick kids into friendships and romantic relationships with artificial corporate products that are perfectly attuned to their shifting moods, will only make it more critical than ever that we pass the Kids Online Safety Act. The time is now,” said Michael Toscano, Director of the Family First Technology Initiative.

“Passing KOSA is a significant step forward toward protecting kids from the harms of Big Tech.KOSA’s targeted, bipartisan approach ensures that parents have the ability to protect their kids online from those features and designs that hurt their development and mental health. This is simply a win for parents, children, and consumers all around,” said Joel Thayer, President of the Digital Progress Institute.

“When companies like Meta enable a new AI chatbot to have sexually explicit conversations with child accounts, or when TikTok provided a platform for adults to pay teens to strip on its LIVE feature, it is clear that it is past time to hold Big Tech accountable. Congress has a major role in ensuring tech platforms prioritize child safety by reintroducing and passing the Kids Online Safety Act,” said Melissa Henson, Vice President of Parents Television and Media Council.

“We strongly support the Kids Online Safety Act as a critical step toward protecting the health, safety, and well-being of children and teens in the digital age. Online platforms play an increasingly central role in the lives of young people, it is imperative that we hold technology companies accountable for the environments they create and maintain. We commend the bipartisan leadership behind the Kids Online Safety Act and urge lawmakers to pass this legislation without delay. Protecting children online is not a partisan issue—it is a moral imperative,” said the Paving The Way Foundation.

“Social media companies continue to abjectly fail the most basic test of any society: protecting children. Big Tech has consistently shown that it cares more about its profit margins than about child safety. The harm needs to stop. It’s past time that Congress pass the Kids Online Safety Act,” said Chris Griswold, Policy Director of American Compass.

“Online exploitation is a borderless crime that transcends jurisdictions and preys on the most vulnerable—our children. KOSA is a critical step towards safeguarding digital spaces and setting an example for other governments to combat this global threat. Protecting children online is not just a policy imperative; it is a moral obligation,” said Anne Basham, Chair of the Interparliamentary Taskforce on Human Trafficking.

“In light of the disturbing reality that some social media services and platforms have become increasingly addictive and even toxic to kids, The Kids Online Safety Act is common sense and necessary legislation that when enacted, will hold platforms accountable to restrict targeted advertising to children, disable addictive online platform features, provide the option to opt out of algorithmic recommendations, and enforce the highest privacy settings for accounts used by minor children. Enough Is Enough applauds the leadership of KOSA cosponsors Senator Blackburn and Senator Blumenthal for reintroducing this critical bill and the overwhelming bi-partisan support of the U.S. Senate last session. We join our allies in urging both the Senate and the House to prioritize the passage of KOSA soonest. The human cost of delay is severe. Kids are dying. Protecting the lives, innocence and dignity of children online is a non-partisan issue with wide bi-partisan support,” said Donna Rice Hughes, CEO/President, Enough Is Enough.

“These platforms fail to disclose their addictive nature or the harms associated with their use. Our children deserve transparency, safety measures, and tools, not exploitation, by default. Why is this so hard? Thank you, Senator Blackburn, for consistently standing in the gap with parents. This time, let’s get it done!” said Chris McKenna, Founder of Protect Young Eyes.

Click here for bill text.

RELATED
MIL OSI USA News –
May 15, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Luján, Welch, Klobuchar, Wyden, Merkley, Oregon Governor Kotek Fight Back Against Republicans’ Attack on SNAP, Nutrition Programs

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 Senate Agriculture Committee Subcommittee on Nutrition and Specialty Crops, U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture Committee Subcommittee on Rural Development, Energy, and Credit, U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, U.S. Senators Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Oregon Governor Tina Kotek, and nutrition advocates hosted a press call on Republicans’ efforts to gut the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), a critical anti-hunger program that helps more than 41.6 million Americans.

Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, the House Agriculture Committee held a markup on the Republican tax bill, which will cut $290 billion in SNAP benefits.

“Something that we all know to be true is everyone deserves to have access to affordable, healthy, nutritious food, and make sure it’s on the table. In my state, 1 in 4 people rely on SNAP, many of whom are children. If this program is cut at that level, it devastates it,” said Senator Luján. “Republicans are not looking out for their constituents who depend on federal programs—they’re looking out for the wealthiest Americans and corporate interests, plain and simple.”

“We’re at the moment of truth—it’s the time for action and no longer just talk. Here’s the truth: Republicans’ plan is about taking things away from people who need them and depend on them. In Vermont, about 1 in 10 Vermonters are receiving SNAP benefits. And that is our poorest Vermonters, low-income folks, kids—it makes a huge difference in their life that they can have access to SNAP,” said Senator Welch. “Now, our Republican colleagues are talking about taking about $290 billion out of the SNAP program. This is really about taking away basic nutritional security that is so absolutely essential to the wellbeing of our families and our kids in Vermont and in every single state across the nation.”

“Instead of working with Democrats to lower costs from President Trump’s across-the-board tariffs, House Republicans have decided to pull the rug out from under families by cutting the SNAP benefits that 42 million Americans rely on to put food on the table – all to fund a tax cut for billionaires. That’s shameful,” said Ranking Member Klobuchar.

“The combination of less food assistance for seniors and kids and Republican cuts in Medicaid is a prescription for a sicker America. This is health care 101: you need access to food to be healthy, and you need access to timely health care when you’re ill. Under the Republican program, more people are going to get sicker,” said Senator Wyden. “We are all in on this battle—we’ll be damned if we’re going to see access to nutrition and health care lost in order to give tax breaks to people at the top.”

“This Republican reconciliation bill is clear: families lose, billionaires win,” said Senator Merkley. “Millions of children will lose health care and go hungry—there’s a good chance that lots of kids won’t even be able to study in school. Nobody learns anything when they’re hungry. It’s pretty outrageous—we need to say, ‘hell no’ to this.”

“SNAP is one of the most effective anti-poverty and pro-health programs we have in America. It helps over 700,000 Oregonians, more than half of them children, seniors, or people with disabilities, put food on the table. When you cut SNAP, you’re not cutting bureaucracy—you’re cutting a child’s breakfast, their dinner, and their family’s dignity,” said Governor Tina Kotek. “These changes are not just unsustainable cost shift to states – they are an attack on the food security of millions of hard-working Americans. They make it harder for states like mine to do our jobs, to meet urgent needs, and to plan responsibly. Instead of this shortsighted plan, we need to invest in American families and the food security that we know strengthens communities, supports our economies, and reflects the basic decency we owe one another.”

In Congress, Senator Luján has long fought to protect and improve SNAP, leading legislation to protect local grocers from transaction fees that would make it harder for them to accept SNAP benefits, championing legislation that would support merit staff and protect SNAP integrity, and fighting to protect access to SNAP in the Farm Bill.

Watch a livestream of the press call here.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 15, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DH responds to media enquiries on air-conditioning interruption in private hospital

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

In response to media enquiries regarding the air-conditioning interruption that occurred at St. Teresa’s Hospital in July 2024 for about an hour, the Department of Health (DH) today (May 14) gave the following response:

Regulatory regime
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Complaint handling
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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

May 15, 2025

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