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  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed & Whitehouse Press Trump Admin. on Reversal of Medical Debt Rule

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed
    WASHINGTON, DC – Nearly 15 million Americans were poised to see their credit scores rise by an average of 20 points under a Biden Administration rule that would have removed medical bills from consumer credit reports.  But the Trump Administration reversed course and joined credit reporting agencies in opposing the rule.  On Friday, a Trump-appointed judge in Texas overturned the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s (CFPB) efforts to leave medical debt off consumer credit reports.
    Now, U.S. Senators Jack Reed (D-RI) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) are teaming up with U.S. Senators Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and 26 other senators in pressing the Trump Administration for answers regarding the CFPB’s decision to vacate the medical debt rule finalized in January 2025.  
    100 million people in America — including 41 percent of adults – are burdened by over $220 billion in medical debt, according to KFF Health News.
    The American Medical Association contends that medical debt isn’t an accurate barometer of people’s ability to repay other loans, because most bills are a one-time or short-term expense from a hospital stay or accident. 
    Warnock, Warren, Reed, Whitehouse and their colleagues are demanding the CFPB share any data the agency relied on in deciding to petition a court to vacate the rule and any communications it had with entities during the process that would profit from its decision.
    “On April 30, 2025, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) asked a court to vacate the agency’s recently released rule to remove medical debt from consumer credit reports. We write to request the information you relied on in making that determination, including any communications with collection agencies that stand to profit from it,” the 30 U.S. Senators wrote.
    “Medical debt collections information is often inaccurate, and studies show that it is not useful in determining a consumer’s ability to repay other debts…Almost half of all medical bills contain at least one error, and almost half of nonprofit hospitals have routinely and mistakenly billed patients who were eligible for free or discounted care,” they continued.
    At the conclusion of the letter, the senators emphasize the need for transparency into the agency’s decision-making process.
    “On April 30, the CFPB filed a joint motion with the industry groups that oppose the rule, petitioning the court to vacate it – lining the pockets of corporations off the backs of American consumers. Given the substantial evidence that the CFPB’s rule was well-considered and would help consumers without reducing the accuracy of their credit scores, we write to request that the CFPB make public all information relied on by the agency in its decision to drop the rule, including any communications with the debt collection industry,” the senators closed.
    Senator Reed is a member of the Senate Banking Committee and has strongly criticized the Trump Administration’s efforts to diminish and downsize the CFPB. In May, President Trump withdrew his nominee for the CFPB.  Currently, OMB Director Russell Vought serves as acting director of the agency and has failed to take action to ensure the CFPB protects Americans from predatory medical debt collection practices.
    In addition to Senators Warnock, Warren, Reed, and Whitehouse, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Adam Schiff (D-CA), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), John Fetterman (D-PA), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Tina Smith (D-MN), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Angus King (I-ME), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Peter Welch (D-VT), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), and Jacky Rosen (D-NV).
    Full text of the letter follows:
    Dear Acting Director Vought,
    On April 30, 2025, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) asked a court to vacate the agency’s recently released rule to remove medical debt from consumer credit reports. We write to request the information you relied on in making that determination, including any communications with debt collection agencies that stand to profit from it.
    Medical debt collections information is often inaccurate, and studies show that it is not useful in determining a consumer’s ability to repay other debts. One major credit scoring company, VantageScore, has stopped using medical debt in its newer models entirely. Almost half of all medical bills contain at least one error, and almost half of nonprofit hospitals have routinely and mistakenly billed patients who were eligible for free or discounted care. People often receive collection notices for debts they did not owe, in the wrong amount, or that should have been covered by insurance—but still end up experiencing long-lasting damage to their credit scores.
    Listing medical debt on a person’s credit report drives down their credit score, which hurts their ability to purchase a car, buy a home or rent an apartment, get utility service, start a business, or access other banking services. This has profound effects on families that can last generations. To make matters worse, medical debt is the most common reason debt collectors contact consumers; the debt collection industry makes one-fourth of its annual revenue from health care debt. Including medical debt on credit reports makes consumers more vulnerable to predatory debt collection practices.
    Medical debt on credit reports also blocks working families from access to credit that they would be able to repay.The CFPB found that people who had all their medical debts completely removed from their credit reports experienced an average credit score increase of 20 points, in some cases elevating families into a higher credit score tier.
    In response to growing data that medical debt is not a good indicator of creditworthiness, states across the country have acted to ban the inclusion of medical debt on credit reports. And on January 7, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) issued a final rule to remove medical debt from consumer credit reports. The rule would remove an estimated $49 billion in medical bills from the credit reports of 15 million Americans, prohibit credit reporting companies from sharing medical debt information with lenders, and bar lenders from considering medical debt in underwriting decisions. It was designed to help the millions of Americans who are struggling to make ends meet, by lowering costs and increasing access to affordable credit for working families without affecting the predictive value of their credit reports. The rule would also help reduce the effects of structural racism and other prejudices. People of color are disproportionately harmed by the inclusion of medical debt on credit reports. Meanwhile, adults with a disability and new moms are more than twice as likely to carry medical debt.
    Despite the critical importance of the medical debt rule, on April 30, the CFPB filed a joint motion with the industry groups that oppose the rule, petitioning the court to vacate it—lining the pockets of corporations off the backs of American consumers. Given the substantial evidence that the CFPB’s rule was well-considered and would help consumers without reducing the accuracy of their credit scores, we write to request that the CFPB make public all information relied on by the agency in its decision to drop the rule, including any communications with the debt collection industry, by July 28, 2025. We specifically request that CFPB publicly publish all data about how medical debt relates to key economic indicators, including:
    Barriers to home and car ownership, including challenges getting loans or not being approved to rent or lease,
    Paying higher premiums for auto, homeowner’s and other types of insurance,
    Losing job opportunities as a result of credit reporting on background checks,
    Obstacles to starting small businesses because of challenges with securing loans,
    Paying more for everyday services such as household utilities or cell phone contracts
    We are particularly concerned about the outsize impact that medical debt has on the credit scores of seniors, veterans, new parents, people with disabilities, cancer patients and survivors, and small business owners.
    Thank you for your attention to this matter.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed & Whitehouse Press Trump Admin. on Reversal of Medical Debt Rule

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed
    WASHINGTON, DC – Nearly 15 million Americans were poised to see their credit scores rise by an average of 20 points under a Biden Administration rule that would have removed medical bills from consumer credit reports.  But the Trump Administration reversed course and joined credit reporting agencies in opposing the rule.  On Friday, a Trump-appointed judge in Texas overturned the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s (CFPB) efforts to leave medical debt off consumer credit reports.
    Now, U.S. Senators Jack Reed (D-RI) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) are teaming up with U.S. Senators Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and 26 other senators in pressing the Trump Administration for answers regarding the CFPB’s decision to vacate the medical debt rule finalized in January 2025.  
    100 million people in America — including 41 percent of adults – are burdened by over $220 billion in medical debt, according to KFF Health News.
    The American Medical Association contends that medical debt isn’t an accurate barometer of people’s ability to repay other loans, because most bills are a one-time or short-term expense from a hospital stay or accident. 
    Warnock, Warren, Reed, Whitehouse and their colleagues are demanding the CFPB share any data the agency relied on in deciding to petition a court to vacate the rule and any communications it had with entities during the process that would profit from its decision.
    “On April 30, 2025, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) asked a court to vacate the agency’s recently released rule to remove medical debt from consumer credit reports. We write to request the information you relied on in making that determination, including any communications with collection agencies that stand to profit from it,” the 30 U.S. Senators wrote.
    “Medical debt collections information is often inaccurate, and studies show that it is not useful in determining a consumer’s ability to repay other debts…Almost half of all medical bills contain at least one error, and almost half of nonprofit hospitals have routinely and mistakenly billed patients who were eligible for free or discounted care,” they continued.
    At the conclusion of the letter, the senators emphasize the need for transparency into the agency’s decision-making process.
    “On April 30, the CFPB filed a joint motion with the industry groups that oppose the rule, petitioning the court to vacate it – lining the pockets of corporations off the backs of American consumers. Given the substantial evidence that the CFPB’s rule was well-considered and would help consumers without reducing the accuracy of their credit scores, we write to request that the CFPB make public all information relied on by the agency in its decision to drop the rule, including any communications with the debt collection industry,” the senators closed.
    Senator Reed is a member of the Senate Banking Committee and has strongly criticized the Trump Administration’s efforts to diminish and downsize the CFPB. In May, President Trump withdrew his nominee for the CFPB.  Currently, OMB Director Russell Vought serves as acting director of the agency and has failed to take action to ensure the CFPB protects Americans from predatory medical debt collection practices.
    In addition to Senators Warnock, Warren, Reed, and Whitehouse, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Adam Schiff (D-CA), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), John Fetterman (D-PA), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Tina Smith (D-MN), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Angus King (I-ME), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Peter Welch (D-VT), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), and Jacky Rosen (D-NV).
    Full text of the letter follows:
    Dear Acting Director Vought,
    On April 30, 2025, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) asked a court to vacate the agency’s recently released rule to remove medical debt from consumer credit reports. We write to request the information you relied on in making that determination, including any communications with debt collection agencies that stand to profit from it.
    Medical debt collections information is often inaccurate, and studies show that it is not useful in determining a consumer’s ability to repay other debts. One major credit scoring company, VantageScore, has stopped using medical debt in its newer models entirely. Almost half of all medical bills contain at least one error, and almost half of nonprofit hospitals have routinely and mistakenly billed patients who were eligible for free or discounted care. People often receive collection notices for debts they did not owe, in the wrong amount, or that should have been covered by insurance—but still end up experiencing long-lasting damage to their credit scores.
    Listing medical debt on a person’s credit report drives down their credit score, which hurts their ability to purchase a car, buy a home or rent an apartment, get utility service, start a business, or access other banking services. This has profound effects on families that can last generations. To make matters worse, medical debt is the most common reason debt collectors contact consumers; the debt collection industry makes one-fourth of its annual revenue from health care debt. Including medical debt on credit reports makes consumers more vulnerable to predatory debt collection practices.
    Medical debt on credit reports also blocks working families from access to credit that they would be able to repay.The CFPB found that people who had all their medical debts completely removed from their credit reports experienced an average credit score increase of 20 points, in some cases elevating families into a higher credit score tier.
    In response to growing data that medical debt is not a good indicator of creditworthiness, states across the country have acted to ban the inclusion of medical debt on credit reports. And on January 7, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) issued a final rule to remove medical debt from consumer credit reports. The rule would remove an estimated $49 billion in medical bills from the credit reports of 15 million Americans, prohibit credit reporting companies from sharing medical debt information with lenders, and bar lenders from considering medical debt in underwriting decisions. It was designed to help the millions of Americans who are struggling to make ends meet, by lowering costs and increasing access to affordable credit for working families without affecting the predictive value of their credit reports. The rule would also help reduce the effects of structural racism and other prejudices. People of color are disproportionately harmed by the inclusion of medical debt on credit reports. Meanwhile, adults with a disability and new moms are more than twice as likely to carry medical debt.
    Despite the critical importance of the medical debt rule, on April 30, the CFPB filed a joint motion with the industry groups that oppose the rule, petitioning the court to vacate it—lining the pockets of corporations off the backs of American consumers. Given the substantial evidence that the CFPB’s rule was well-considered and would help consumers without reducing the accuracy of their credit scores, we write to request that the CFPB make public all information relied on by the agency in its decision to drop the rule, including any communications with the debt collection industry, by July 28, 2025. We specifically request that CFPB publicly publish all data about how medical debt relates to key economic indicators, including:
    Barriers to home and car ownership, including challenges getting loans or not being approved to rent or lease,
    Paying higher premiums for auto, homeowner’s and other types of insurance,
    Losing job opportunities as a result of credit reporting on background checks,
    Obstacles to starting small businesses because of challenges with securing loans,
    Paying more for everyday services such as household utilities or cell phone contracts
    We are particularly concerned about the outsize impact that medical debt has on the credit scores of seniors, veterans, new parents, people with disabilities, cancer patients and survivors, and small business owners.
    Thank you for your attention to this matter.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed & Whitehouse Press Trump Admin. on Reversal of Medical Debt Rule

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed
    WASHINGTON, DC – Nearly 15 million Americans were poised to see their credit scores rise by an average of 20 points under a Biden Administration rule that would have removed medical bills from consumer credit reports.  But the Trump Administration reversed course and joined credit reporting agencies in opposing the rule.  On Friday, a Trump-appointed judge in Texas overturned the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s (CFPB) efforts to leave medical debt off consumer credit reports.
    Now, U.S. Senators Jack Reed (D-RI) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) are teaming up with U.S. Senators Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and 26 other senators in pressing the Trump Administration for answers regarding the CFPB’s decision to vacate the medical debt rule finalized in January 2025.  
    100 million people in America — including 41 percent of adults – are burdened by over $220 billion in medical debt, according to KFF Health News.
    The American Medical Association contends that medical debt isn’t an accurate barometer of people’s ability to repay other loans, because most bills are a one-time or short-term expense from a hospital stay or accident. 
    Warnock, Warren, Reed, Whitehouse and their colleagues are demanding the CFPB share any data the agency relied on in deciding to petition a court to vacate the rule and any communications it had with entities during the process that would profit from its decision.
    “On April 30, 2025, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) asked a court to vacate the agency’s recently released rule to remove medical debt from consumer credit reports. We write to request the information you relied on in making that determination, including any communications with collection agencies that stand to profit from it,” the 30 U.S. Senators wrote.
    “Medical debt collections information is often inaccurate, and studies show that it is not useful in determining a consumer’s ability to repay other debts…Almost half of all medical bills contain at least one error, and almost half of nonprofit hospitals have routinely and mistakenly billed patients who were eligible for free or discounted care,” they continued.
    At the conclusion of the letter, the senators emphasize the need for transparency into the agency’s decision-making process.
    “On April 30, the CFPB filed a joint motion with the industry groups that oppose the rule, petitioning the court to vacate it – lining the pockets of corporations off the backs of American consumers. Given the substantial evidence that the CFPB’s rule was well-considered and would help consumers without reducing the accuracy of their credit scores, we write to request that the CFPB make public all information relied on by the agency in its decision to drop the rule, including any communications with the debt collection industry,” the senators closed.
    Senator Reed is a member of the Senate Banking Committee and has strongly criticized the Trump Administration’s efforts to diminish and downsize the CFPB. In May, President Trump withdrew his nominee for the CFPB.  Currently, OMB Director Russell Vought serves as acting director of the agency and has failed to take action to ensure the CFPB protects Americans from predatory medical debt collection practices.
    In addition to Senators Warnock, Warren, Reed, and Whitehouse, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Adam Schiff (D-CA), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), John Fetterman (D-PA), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Tina Smith (D-MN), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Angus King (I-ME), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Peter Welch (D-VT), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), and Jacky Rosen (D-NV).
    Full text of the letter follows:
    Dear Acting Director Vought,
    On April 30, 2025, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) asked a court to vacate the agency’s recently released rule to remove medical debt from consumer credit reports. We write to request the information you relied on in making that determination, including any communications with debt collection agencies that stand to profit from it.
    Medical debt collections information is often inaccurate, and studies show that it is not useful in determining a consumer’s ability to repay other debts. One major credit scoring company, VantageScore, has stopped using medical debt in its newer models entirely. Almost half of all medical bills contain at least one error, and almost half of nonprofit hospitals have routinely and mistakenly billed patients who were eligible for free or discounted care. People often receive collection notices for debts they did not owe, in the wrong amount, or that should have been covered by insurance—but still end up experiencing long-lasting damage to their credit scores.
    Listing medical debt on a person’s credit report drives down their credit score, which hurts their ability to purchase a car, buy a home or rent an apartment, get utility service, start a business, or access other banking services. This has profound effects on families that can last generations. To make matters worse, medical debt is the most common reason debt collectors contact consumers; the debt collection industry makes one-fourth of its annual revenue from health care debt. Including medical debt on credit reports makes consumers more vulnerable to predatory debt collection practices.
    Medical debt on credit reports also blocks working families from access to credit that they would be able to repay.The CFPB found that people who had all their medical debts completely removed from their credit reports experienced an average credit score increase of 20 points, in some cases elevating families into a higher credit score tier.
    In response to growing data that medical debt is not a good indicator of creditworthiness, states across the country have acted to ban the inclusion of medical debt on credit reports. And on January 7, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) issued a final rule to remove medical debt from consumer credit reports. The rule would remove an estimated $49 billion in medical bills from the credit reports of 15 million Americans, prohibit credit reporting companies from sharing medical debt information with lenders, and bar lenders from considering medical debt in underwriting decisions. It was designed to help the millions of Americans who are struggling to make ends meet, by lowering costs and increasing access to affordable credit for working families without affecting the predictive value of their credit reports. The rule would also help reduce the effects of structural racism and other prejudices. People of color are disproportionately harmed by the inclusion of medical debt on credit reports. Meanwhile, adults with a disability and new moms are more than twice as likely to carry medical debt.
    Despite the critical importance of the medical debt rule, on April 30, the CFPB filed a joint motion with the industry groups that oppose the rule, petitioning the court to vacate it—lining the pockets of corporations off the backs of American consumers. Given the substantial evidence that the CFPB’s rule was well-considered and would help consumers without reducing the accuracy of their credit scores, we write to request that the CFPB make public all information relied on by the agency in its decision to drop the rule, including any communications with the debt collection industry, by July 28, 2025. We specifically request that CFPB publicly publish all data about how medical debt relates to key economic indicators, including:
    Barriers to home and car ownership, including challenges getting loans or not being approved to rent or lease,
    Paying higher premiums for auto, homeowner’s and other types of insurance,
    Losing job opportunities as a result of credit reporting on background checks,
    Obstacles to starting small businesses because of challenges with securing loans,
    Paying more for everyday services such as household utilities or cell phone contracts
    We are particularly concerned about the outsize impact that medical debt has on the credit scores of seniors, veterans, new parents, people with disabilities, cancer patients and survivors, and small business owners.
    Thank you for your attention to this matter.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed & Whitehouse Press Trump Admin. on Reversal of Medical Debt Rule

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed

    WASHINGTON, DC – Nearly 15 million Americans were poised to see their credit scores rise by an average of 20 points under a Biden Administration rule that would have removed medical bills from consumer credit reports.  But the Trump Administration reversed course and joined credit reporting agencies in opposing the rule.  On Friday, a Trump-appointed judge in Texas overturned the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s (CFPB) efforts to leave medical debt off consumer credit reports.

    Now, U.S. Senators Jack Reed (D-RI) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) are teaming up with U.S. Senators Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and 26 other senators in pressing the Trump Administration for answers regarding the CFPB’s decision to vacate the medical debt rule finalized in January 2025.  

    100 million people in America — including 41 percent of adults – are burdened by over $220 billion in medical debt, according to KFF Health News.

    The American Medical Association contends that medical debt isn’t an accurate barometer of people’s ability to repay other loans, because most bills are a one-time or short-term expense from a hospital stay or accident. 

    Warnock, Warren, Reed, Whitehouse and their colleagues are demanding the CFPB share any data the agency relied on in deciding to petition a court to vacate the rule and any communications it had with entities during the process that would profit from its decision.

    “On April 30, 2025, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) asked a court to vacate the agency’s recently released rule to remove medical debt from consumer credit reports. We write to request the information you relied on in making that determination, including any communications with collection agencies that stand to profit from it,” the 30 U.S. Senators wrote.

    “Medical debt collections information is often inaccurate, and studies show that it is not useful in determining a consumer’s ability to repay other debts…Almost half of all medical bills contain at least one error, and almost half of nonprofit hospitals have routinely and mistakenly billed patients who were eligible for free or discounted care,” they continued.

    At the conclusion of the letter, the senators emphasize the need for transparency into the agency’s decision-making process.

    “On April 30, the CFPB filed a joint motion with the industry groups that oppose the rule, petitioning the court to vacate it – lining the pockets of corporations off the backs of American consumers. Given the substantial evidence that the CFPB’s rule was well-considered and would help consumers without reducing the accuracy of their credit scores, we write to request that the CFPB make public all information relied on by the agency in its decision to drop the rule, including any communications with the debt collection industry,” the senators closed.

    Senator Reed is a member of the Senate Banking Committee and has strongly criticized the Trump Administration’s efforts to diminish and downsize the CFPB. In May, President Trump withdrew his nominee for the CFPB.  Currently, OMB Director Russell Vought serves as acting director of the agency and has failed to take action to ensure the CFPB protects Americans from predatory medical debt collection practices.

    In addition to Senators Warnock, Warren, Reed, and Whitehouse, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Adam Schiff (D-CA), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), John Fetterman (D-PA), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Tina Smith (D-MN), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Angus King (I-ME), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Peter Welch (D-VT), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), and Jacky Rosen (D-NV).

    Full text of the letter follows:

    Dear Acting Director Vought,

    On April 30, 2025, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) asked a court to vacate the agency’s recently released rule to remove medical debt from consumer credit reports. We write to request the information you relied on in making that determination, including any communications with debt collection agencies that stand to profit from it.

    Medical debt collections information is often inaccurate, and studies show that it is not useful in determining a consumer’s ability to repay other debts. One major credit scoring company, VantageScore, has stopped using medical debt in its newer models entirely. Almost half of all medical bills contain at least one error, and almost half of nonprofit hospitals have routinely and mistakenly billed patients who were eligible for free or discounted care. People often receive collection notices for debts they did not owe, in the wrong amount, or that should have been covered by insurance—but still end up experiencing long-lasting damage to their credit scores.

    Listing medical debt on a person’s credit report drives down their credit score, which hurts their ability to purchase a car, buy a home or rent an apartment, get utility service, start a business, or access other banking services. This has profound effects on families that can last generations. To make matters worse, medical debt is the most common reason debt collectors contact consumers; the debt collection industry makes one-fourth of its annual revenue from health care debt. Including medical debt on credit reports makes consumers more vulnerable to predatory debt collection practices.

    Medical debt on credit reports also blocks working families from access to credit that they would be able to repay.The CFPB found that people who had all their medical debts completely removed from their credit reports experienced an average credit score increase of 20 points, in some cases elevating families into a higher credit score tier.

    In response to growing data that medical debt is not a good indicator of creditworthiness, states across the country have acted to ban the inclusion of medical debt on credit reports. And on January 7, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) issued a final rule to remove medical debt from consumer credit reports. The rule would remove an estimated $49 billion in medical bills from the credit reports of 15 million Americans, prohibit credit reporting companies from sharing medical debt information with lenders, and bar lenders from considering medical debt in underwriting decisions. It was designed to help the millions of Americans who are struggling to make ends meet, by lowering costs and increasing access to affordable credit for working families without affecting the predictive value of their credit reports. The rule would also help reduce the effects of structural racism and other prejudices. People of color are disproportionately harmed by the inclusion of medical debt on credit reports. Meanwhile, adults with a disability and new moms are more than twice as likely to carry medical debt.

    Despite the critical importance of the medical debt rule, on April 30, the CFPB filed a joint motion with the industry groups that oppose the rule, petitioning the court to vacate it—lining the pockets of corporations off the backs of American consumers. Given the substantial evidence that the CFPB’s rule was well-considered and would help consumers without reducing the accuracy of their credit scores, we write to request that the CFPB make public all information relied on by the agency in its decision to drop the rule, including any communications with the debt collection industry, by July 28, 2025. We specifically request that CFPB publicly publish all data about how medical debt relates to key economic indicators, including:

    • Barriers to home and car ownership, including challenges getting loans or not being approved to rent or lease,
    • Paying higher premiums for auto, homeowner’s and other types of insurance,
    • Losing job opportunities as a result of credit reporting on background checks,
    • Obstacles to starting small businesses because of challenges with securing loans,
    • Paying more for everyday services such as household utilities or cell phone contracts

    We are particularly concerned about the outsize impact that medical debt has on the credit scores of seniors, veterans, new parents, people with disabilities, cancer patients and survivors, and small business owners.

    Thank you for your attention to this matter.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Marat Khusnullin: A polyclinic has been restored at the central city hospital of Svetlodarsk in the DPR

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    In Donbass and Novorossiya, the Russian construction complex continues to work on the restoration and major repairs of healthcare facilities, after which residents will be able to receive medical care there in modern conditions. Thus, the renovated polyclinic in Svetlodarsk of the Donetsk People’s Republic is ready to receive up to 500 patients daily, Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin reported.

    “A lot of work is being done in the reunited regions to create a social infrastructure that will improve the quality of life and provide services in comfortable conditions. The program for the socio-economic development of Donbass and Novorossiya has a comprehensive approach and includes not only the construction and restoration of buildings, but also tools for attracting specialists who will work, among other things, in the healthcare sector. Speaking about facilities, in Svetlodarsk, for example, a major overhaul of the outpatient clinic at the central hospital was completed. In total, we have about 300 such restored and updated facilities in the reunited regions. Among other things, medical workers are attracted to work in them under the programs “Zemsky Doctor” and “Zemsky Paramedic”. There are more than 100 such specialists today,” said Marat Khusnullin.

    The Deputy Prime Minister added that during the major repairs of the 7,000 sq. m. building, under the supervision of specialists from the Single Customer in Construction, the roof, windows and doors were replaced, the interior was finished and the engineering systems were modernized.

    “Implementation of programs to support reunited regions remains one of the key priorities of the Russian Ministry of Construction. Particular attention is paid to the development of social infrastructure, including healthcare. From 2022 to 2024, residents were issued 3.6 million compulsory medical insurance policies, which guarantees citizens all the possibilities of the compulsory medical insurance system. This is an important step in integrating historical regions into a single social space of the country,” said Deputy Minister of Construction and Housing and Public Utilities Almaz Khusainov.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Mikhail Mishustin held a strategic session on the development of the aviation industry

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    M. Mishustin: “Our country has sufficient technological potential, all the resources to make a radical breakthrough in the field of aircraft manufacturing and, as a result, provide our citizens with guaranteed opportunities for convenient flights – comfortable, safe.”

    Opening remarks by Mikhail Mishustin:

    Good afternoon, dear colleagues!

    Mikhail Mishustin held a strategic session on the development of the aviation industry

    15 hours ago

    Today we will look at important issues in the development of the aviation industry.

    The President has set large-scale tasks for the industry to update the fleet of Russian airlines. Without a doubt, our country needs a modern air fleet based on its own technological solutions and a powerful production base.

    In the context of sanctions and external restrictions, the creation of a full range of domestic equipment is necessary for the reliable development of connectivity between our regions and the achievement of the strategic goal of increasing the aviation mobility of citizens by one and a half times by 2030.

    Of course, for this purpose new comfortable airport complexes are also being actively built, airfield infrastructure is being modernized, air traffic control systems are being improved, which contributes to the expansion of the route network. And as a result, flights on domestic routes are becoming more convenient for more people.

    In order to ensure the independence of Russian civil aviation, a specialized federal project has been formed – “Production of Aircraft and Helicopters”. It has become part of the national project of technological leadership “Industrial Support of Transport Mobility”, which was launched, let me remind you, at the beginning of this year. It is planned to allocate a total of 765 billion rubles from the federal budget for its implementation over six years.

    First of all, to create aircraft, competitive engines, electronic equipment, various technical systems. And the entire list of science-intensive equipment. We are talking about developing truly unique products that do not yet have Russian analogues, the production of which must be mastered.

    Of course, here we are counting on the high efficiency and coordinated actions of our research centers, design bureaus, industry enterprises and many thousands of related companies that are involved in cooperation chains.

    I will highlight several key challenges that aviation industry enterprises will have to overcome.

    First of all, it is necessary to bring to successful completion the experimental design work on all implemented programs.

    There are preliminary results. In particular, yesterday the operation of the onboard radio-electronic equipment was successfully tested during the flight tests of our flagship MS-21. For the first time, a laboratory based on the Yak-40 with a VK-800 engine took to the air, which will be installed on local aircraft – “Baikal” and the joint aircraft with the Belarusians “Osvey”.

    According to the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the certification of the updated Superjet with the PD-8 engine is expected to be completed no later than December of this year. Just recently, let me remind you, it flew from Komsomolsk-on-Amur to Zhukovsky. As did the regional airliner Il-114, which we examined in detail last week while visiting the Innoprom exhibition in Yekaterinburg.

    And the MS-21 and Baikal should be ready for serial production – according to the plans we have – in October and December of next year, respectively.

    I would like to draw the attention of my colleagues to the fact that specific deadlines need to be set for each type of aircraft. Including for import-substituted versions of the well-known Tu-214 and Il-96-300 models. As well as for our other projects, such as Ladoga and Osvey. And also for promising helicopters of various classes: from the lightest – Mi-34, Ansat, Ka-62 to the heavy ones – Mi-38, Mi-171. It is important that the final economic and flight-technical characteristics of the new Russian equipment correspond to the parameters agreed upon with the airlines.

    Another equally serious task is related to the implementation of investment projects to expand production capacity at all enterprises of the cooperation, taking into account the high cost of credit resources today.

    In order to provide systemic support for the construction and modernization of plant facilities, the Government approved a comprehensive program for the development of the aviation industry until 2030 three years ago.

    Taking into account new challenges, it needs to be revised. It is also necessary to update the aircraft delivery schedules by year, based on the current situation.

    I would like to emphasize that we cannot allow any delays that could hinder the growth of passenger traffic. This is a top priority.

    Dear colleagues!

    I propose to analyze in detail the current status of each project, the results achieved, as well as the existing challenges, and to develop solutions that will allow us to reach large-scale production of a full cycle of aircraft.

    Our country has sufficient technological potential and all the resources to make a radical breakthrough in the field of aircraft manufacturing and, as a result, provide our citizens with guaranteed opportunities for convenient flights – comfortable and safe.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Alexander Novak: Joint work of Russia and Nigeria within OPEC makes a decisive contribution to ensuring predictability of the oil market

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Deputy Prime Minister of Russia Alexander Novak met with the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs of Nigeria Olawale Edun.

    “Russia values the friendly nature of Russian-Nigerian relations, which are based on the principles of mutual respect and similar approaches to current issues on the international and regional agenda. We see Abuja as a promising partner on the African continent,” said Alexander Novak, opening the negotiations.

    The parties discussed full-cycle cooperation in the oil and gas industry: from geological exploration to field development, interaction in the energy sector, industrial equipment supplies, and in the financial and banking sector.

    Particular attention was paid to issues of interaction and coordination of efforts within the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) and OPEC. The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized Russia’s commitment to promoting the legitimate interests of gas exporters in global energy markets.

    “Our joint work within OPEC makes a decisive contribution to ensuring stability and predictability of the global oil market. The decisions taken are based on real market indicators and trends and are aimed at balancing it in the face of economic challenges. We believe that our collective actions within OPEC and OPEC meet long-term national interests and contribute to strengthening the economies of our countries,” added Alexander Novak.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Chernyshenko: 61% of our citizens are involved in regular physical education and sports

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    “Despite external challenges, the industry has been steadily developing. As of June 2025, almost 61% of our citizens are involved in regular physical education and sports. This is the main indicator of the effectiveness of state policy, which was determined by our head of state. Let me remind you that, according to the instructions of President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin, it should be at least 70% by 2030,” said Dmitry Chernyshenko.

    Last year, Russia hosted 645 international and almost 3 thousand national competitions, and held more than 2.3 thousand training camps in Olympic sports. Particular attention was paid to the development of new international formats. Russia hosted the BRICS Games and the Future Games (united participants from 116 countries in 21 phygital disciplines).

    The Deputy Prime Minister named support for adaptive sports and veterans of the SVO as a key area of work. This topic was the focus of the meeting of the Council under the President. In 2024, 11 sports competitions were held for veterans of the SVO. In May of this year, the final of the Victory Cup in phygital sports was organized for them. On the instructions of the head of state, complex multi-stage competitions will be held for SVO participants, a comprehensive support system, infrastructure for training and rehabilitation will be built.

    In 2025, a comprehensive state program was launched, within the framework of which at least 350 sports facilities will be built annually, and support for children’s sections, coaches, and mass adaptive sports will be strengthened.

    “According to Rosstat, the total expenditure on sports in the country is about 700 billion rubles. One of the key tasks is to consolidate all these resources in the sports sphere, including extra-budgetary funds,” noted Dmitry Chernyshenko.

    In addition, it is necessary to conduct an analysis of the impact of extra-budgetary sources on achieving the indicators of this comprehensive state program. The Ministry of Sports is preparing a system for rating regions by efficiency in the field of physical culture and sports. It is also important to regularly conduct research on the satisfaction of our citizens with the conditions for engaging in physical culture and sports in the regions.

    “The return of Russian athletes to the world arena is our primary task. 67 international federations allow our athletes to compete in their events. Almost 4,000 Russians in 28 Olympic sports have been allowed to participate in international tournaments under the auspices of the federations. Our plans for 2025 include participation in 29 world championships and other major competitions,” said Mikhail Degtyarev.

    In 2024, unified federations were created for gymnastics, water sports, canoeing, baseball and softball.

    As the Minister noted, one of the most important instruments for strengthening the system will be the Russian Sports Fund, created this year on the instructions of the President. In 2024, the total amount of deductions from gambling on sports exceeded 35 billion rubles.

    Special attention is given to our historical regions. The Russian Ministry of Sports will finance capital repairs, construction and reconstruction of sports facilities. Plans up to 2027 include, among other things: construction of 35 FOKOTs and 15 modular sports facilities, equipping 66 sports institutions with equipment.

    The Ministry of Sports has approved a list of 24 most accessible sports for organizing free sections and preferential conditions for children from low-income families. An order has been issued by the Ministry of Sports banning application fees for athletes under 18 years of age at interregional and all-Russian competitions.

    The GTO complex is an important tool for engaging in sports. 2.7 million people met the standards in 2024, more than 1 million received a gold badge.

    On the instructions of the President of Russia, the “Zemsky Trainer” program was launched.

    Dmitry Chernyshenko and Mikhail Degtyarev presented state and departmental awards in the field of sports. Among them were the Order of Honor, medals of the Order of Merit for the Fatherland, 1st and 2nd class, and others, awarded in accordance with the decree of the President.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Marat Khusnullin: In the Zabaikalsky Krai, repairs have been completed on 30 km of the federal highway R-297 “Amur” Chita – Khabarovsk

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    On the federal highway R-297 “Amur” Chita – Khabarovsk in the Zabaikalsky Krai, work has been completed to bring four sections of the road with a total length of 30 km up to standard. This was reported by Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin.

    “This year marks 15 years since the federal highway R-297 “Amur” was launched. This is the only route between two major transport hubs and administrative centers of the country’s regions – Chita and Khabarovsk. As an eastward extension of the federal highway R-258 “Baikal” Irkutsk – Ulan-Ude – Chita, the road connects the western part of Russia with the Far East, and also provides access to the A-360 “Lena” highway to Yakutia and the Magadan Region. Of course, any road surface requires maintenance and timely renewal. And in order for motorists to remain comfortable, repairs have been completed on four sections of R-297 with a total length of 30 km – the road surface has been renewed, culverts have been repaired, and the barrier fence, signal posts and road signs have been restored,” said Marat Khusnullin.

    The work was carried out under three government contracts on the following sections: km 115–km 125 near the settlement of Naryn-Talacha in the Karymsky District, km 270–km 275 and km 295–km 297, as well as km 323–km 337 in the Chernyshevsky District.

    Additionally, on the section between km 323 and km 337 near Zhireken, a rest area was renovated and sunshades were installed to prevent the occurrence of subsidence or so-called Amur waves, which are formed as a result of the thawing of permafrost soils at the base of the road.

    “The Amur Federal Highway is one of the most important elements of the Russian transport system. The average annual traffic intensity on this highway is growing every year. Thus, in 2022 it was about 2.5 thousand cars per day, and in 2024 – already more than 3.2 thousand vehicles. That is why we are constantly working to improve the transport characteristics of the road, including the use of innovative technologies and materials that can increase the durability and safety of the highway,” said Azamat Ilimbetov, head of the Federal State Institution “Zabaikalye Federal Highway Administration”, which carried out the repair of the highway.

    Work to bring the route up to standard continues. By the end of 2026, more than 138 km of the R-297 “Amur” highway from Chita to the border with the Amur Region are planned to be repaired (including 30 km already commissioned). This year, a total of 84 km are planned to be commissioned.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Marat Khusnullin: In the Zabaikalsky Krai, repairs have been completed on 30 km of the federal highway R-297 “Amur” Chita – Khabarovsk

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    On the federal highway R-297 “Amur” Chita – Khabarovsk in the Zabaikalsky Krai, work has been completed to bring four sections of the road with a total length of 30 km up to standard. This was reported by Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin.

    “This year marks 15 years since the federal highway R-297 “Amur” was launched. This is the only route between two major transport hubs and administrative centers of the country’s regions – Chita and Khabarovsk. As an eastward extension of the federal highway R-258 “Baikal” Irkutsk – Ulan-Ude – Chita, the road connects the western part of Russia with the Far East, and also provides access to the A-360 “Lena” highway to Yakutia and the Magadan Region. Of course, any road surface requires maintenance and timely renewal. And in order for motorists to remain comfortable, repairs have been completed on four sections of R-297 with a total length of 30 km – the road surface has been renewed, culverts have been repaired, and the barrier fence, signal posts and road signs have been restored,” said Marat Khusnullin.

    The work was carried out under three government contracts on the following sections: km 115–km 125 near the settlement of Naryn-Talacha in the Karymsky District, km 270–km 275 and km 295–km 297, as well as km 323–km 337 in the Chernyshevsky District.

    Additionally, on the section between km 323 and km 337 near Zhireken, a rest area was renovated and sunshades were installed to prevent the occurrence of subsidence or so-called Amur waves, which are formed as a result of the thawing of permafrost soils at the base of the road.

    “The Amur Federal Highway is one of the most important elements of the Russian transport system. The average annual traffic intensity on this highway is growing every year. Thus, in 2022 it was about 2.5 thousand cars per day, and in 2024 – already more than 3.2 thousand vehicles. That is why we are constantly working to improve the transport characteristics of the road, including the use of innovative technologies and materials that can increase the durability and safety of the highway,” said Azamat Ilimbetov, head of the Federal State Institution “Zabaikalye Federal Highway Administration”, which carried out the repair of the highway.

    Work to bring the route up to standard continues. By the end of 2026, more than 138 km of the R-297 “Amur” highway from Chita to the border with the Amur Region are planned to be repaired (including 30 km already commissioned). This year, a total of 84 km are planned to be commissioned.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: Carlyle Secured Lending, Inc. Schedules Earnings Release and Quarterly Earnings Call to Discuss its Financial Results for the Second Quarter Ended June 30, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, July 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Carlyle Secured Lending, Inc. (“Carlyle Secured Lending”) (NASDAQ: CGBD) will host a conference call at 11:00 a.m. EST on Wednesday, August 6, 2025 to announce its financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2025. The Company will report its quarterly financial results on Tuesday, August 5, 2025.

    The conference call will be available via public webcast via a link on Carlyle Secured Lending’s website at carlylesecuredlending.com and will also be available on the website soon after the call’s completion.

    About Carlyle Secured Lending, Inc.    

    Carlyle Secured Lending, Inc. is a publicly traded (NASDAQ: CGBD) business development company (“BDC”) which began investing in 2013. The Company focuses on providing directly originated, financing solutions across the capital structure, with a focus on senior secured lending to middle-market companies primarily located in the United States. Carlyle Secured Lending is externally managed by Carlyle Global Credit Investment Management L.L.C., an SEC-registered investment adviser and wholly owned subsidiary of Carlyle.

    Web: carlylesecuredlending.com

    About Carlyle   

    Carlyle (“Carlyle,” or the “Adviser”) (NASDAQ: CG) is a global investment firm with deep industry expertise that deploys private capital across three business segments: Global Private Equity, Global Credit and Carlyle AlpInvest. With $453 billion of assets under management as of March 31, 2025, Carlyle’s purpose is to invest wisely and create value on behalf of its investors, portfolio companies and the communities in which we live and invest. Carlyle employs more than 2,300 people in 29 offices across four continents. Further information is available at www.carlyle.com. Follow Carlyle on X @OneCarlyle and LinkedIn at The Carlyle Group.

    Contacts:

    Investors: Media:
    Nishil Mehta Kristen Ashton
    +1-212-813-4918 +1-212-813-4763
    publicinvestor@carlylesecuredlending.com kristen.ashton@carlyle.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Chernyshenko: The Republic of Abkhazia has joined the Student Tourism program.

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Student tourism has become one of the topics sounded at a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on July 10, 2025.

    This season, a new international direction has been added to the Student Tourism program – now students, young scientists, postgraduates and residents studying in Russia will be able to choose the Republic of Abkhazia for their trip.

    “The Student Tourism program is growing: 260 universities from 85 regions of Russia have joined it in four years. Participants travel not only around our country, but also abroad. Young people can travel to Armenia, Belarus, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, China, and now also to Abkhazia. In turn, more than 1,000 foreign students will visit Russian regions to get acquainted with the domestic education system and scientific agenda. Such trips contribute to strengthening cooperation between our countries and increasing the number of foreign students, as President Vladimir Putin instructed us to do,” said Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko.

    The youth and student tourism program (Student Tourism) was launched on the initiative of Russian President Vladimir Putin. It allows university students aged 18 to 35 to travel, staying in the dormitories of partner universities. Thus, the program assumes the effective use of infrastructure, when the dormitories, which can be vacated during the summer holidays, are occupied by students who come from other regions. The opportunity to communicate with peers is especially important here.

    The goal of the program is to create a single space for the cultural, personal, scientific and professional development of Russian youth, as well as familiarization with the domestic education system and science. You can apply for participation on the platform studturizm.rf.

    According to the head of the Ministry of Education and Science, Valery Falkov, the program contributes to the formation of a favorable educational environment and opens up new prospects for cultural and scientific exchange.

    “Today, participants of “Student Tourism” can travel to 117 cities in Russia, as well as choose travel destinations beyond its borders. The guys have access to more than 1.1 thousand scientific infrastructure facilities, special educational modules and popular science routes have been launched,” he added.

    The involvement of the Abkhaz State University (ASU) in the Student Tourism program started with an international blog tour in Sukhumi. It was organized in July by the Russian Ministry of Education and Science together with the International Youth Center of the Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia named after Patrice Lumumba. Presentations of educational opportunities, meetings with university representatives, master classes, and cultural and excursion events were held at ASU. Students and representatives of media centers of Russian universities took part in the blog tour.

    Head of the Student Tourism program Svetlana Nekhorosheva notes: “We at Student Tourism believe that students can easily, safely and affordably travel around Russia and the world. Abkhazia is an important partner in the development of youth exchanges and cultural dialogue. The accession of the Abkhaz State University opens up new prospects for students from both countries.”

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: Results of monitoring maximum interest rates of credit institutions (07/15/2025)

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Central Bank of Russia –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    1 When determining the maximum interest rate for each credit institution:

    — maximum rates on deposits available to any client (including potential ones) without restrictions and preconditions are taken into account. Deposits for selected categories of clients (pensioners, children) and purposes (for social and humanitarian purposes, etc.) are not considered;

    — rates with capitalization of interest on the deposit are not taken into account;

    — rates that apply under certain conditions (regular turnover on a bank card, constant minimum balance on a bank card, etc.) are not taken into account;

    — combined deposit products, i.e. deposits with additional conditions, are not considered. Such additional conditions for calculating an increased interest rate may be, for example, the purchase of investment units for a certain amount, opening an investment account, registration of an investment or savings life insurance program, connection of an additional service package, etc.;

    — deposits whose term is divided into periods with different rates are not considered.

    The average maximum interest rate indicator is calculated as the arithmetic mean of the maximum interest rates of 10 credit institutions.

    2 PJSC Sberbank (1481) – www.sberbank.ru, VTB Bank (PJSC) (1000) – www.vtb.ru, GPB Bank (JSC) (354) – www.gazprombank.ru, JSC Alfa-Bank (1326) – alfabank.ru, JSC Rosselkhozbank (3349) – www.rshb.ru, JSC “Bank Dom.RF” (2312) – domrfbank.ru, PJSC “Moscow Credit Bank” (1978) – mkb.ru, JSC “TBank” (2673) – www.tbank.ru, PJSC “Promsvyazbank” (3251) – psbank.ru, PJSC “Sovcombank” (963) – sovcombank.ru. The monitoring was conducted by the Department of Banking Regulation and Analytics of the Bank of Russia using information provided on the specified websites. The published indicator is indicative.

    3 Average maximum interest rates on deposits: for a term of up to 90 days – 17.22%; for a term of 91 to 180 days – 17.39%; for a term of 181 days to 1 year – 16.93%; for a term of over 1 year – 15.08%.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: Portman Ridge Finance Corporation Closes Merger with Logan Ridge Finance Corporation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, July 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Portman Ridge Finance Corporation (NASDAQ: PTMN) (“Portman Ridge” or “PTMN”) today announced the closing of the previously announced merger of Logan Ridge Finance Corporation (NASDAQ: LRFC) (“Logan Ridge” or “LRFC”) with and into PTMN, with PTMN remaining as the surviving company. Based on July 11, 2025 financial data, the combined company had total assets in excess of $600 million.

    Ted Goldthorpe, President and Chief Executive Officer of PTMN and Head of the BC Partners Credit Platform, stated, “We would like to thank the shareholders and independent directors of both companies for their strong support throughout the merger process. With the merger now complete, we look forward to rebranding PTMN as BCP Investment Corporation later this summer, which will better reflect our affiliation with the broader BC Partners Credit Platform.

    Looking forward, we are excited about the opportunities ahead. We will seek to leverage the combined company’s enhanced scale, further diversified portfolio, cost savings due to lower overall operating expenses, and improved stock trading liquidity to deliver compelling risk-adjusted returns for our shareholders.”

    In connection with the closing of the merger, LRFC shareholders are entitled to receive approximately 4.0 million shares of PTMN common stock in the aggregate, or 1.5 shares of PTMN common stock for each common share of LRFC, based on the applicable exchange ratio and payment of cash in lieu of fractional shares.

    Prior to the closing of the merger, LRFC’s investment adviser announced a cash payment of $0.47 per share to LRFC shareholders of record as of May 6, 2025, which is expected to be paid to the applicable legacy LRFC shareholders on or about July 25, 2025. Additionally, on July 14, 2025, LRFC’s Board of Directors declared a tax distribution of $0.38 per share to LRFC shareholders of record as of July 14, 2025, which is expected to be paid to the applicable legacy LRFC shareholders on or about July 22, 2025.

    Additional Merger Related Initiatives

    • In the coming weeks: Portman Ridge will rebrand and begin operating under the name BCP Investment Corporation (the “Company” or “BCIC”). In connection with the rebranding, the Company will continue to trade on the Nasdaq under the new ticker symbol “BCIC”.
    • Beginning in 2026: The Company will transition to paying its currently quarterly base distribution on a monthly basis, while retaining the potential for quarterly supplemental distributions. The quarterly supplemental distributions will continue to approximate 50% of the incremental net investment income earned in excess of the base monthly distributions.
    • Over the next 24 months: To further align the Company’s interests with shareholders and drive additional value creation, the Company, along with its management, its adviser and their affiliates intend to purchase up to 20% of the Company’s outstanding common stock to the extent the Company’s shares continue to trade below 80% of net asset value (“NAV”), which implies a share price of $15.08 based on Portman Ridge’s March 31, 2025 NAV per share, or approximately a 20% premium to PTMN’s June 26, 2025 closing market price. These purchases will begin no earlier than 60 calendar days following the date of the closing of the LRFC merger and may occur through various methods, including open market purchases and privately negotiated transactions, and may be conducted pursuant to Rule 10b5-1 and Rule 10b-18 trading plans. In this regard and as previously announced, PTMN’s Board of Directors has authorized an open market stock repurchase program of up to $10 million for the period from March 12, 2025, to March 31, 2026. The Company, its management and its adviser also reserve the right to conduct tender offers as part of the Company’s broader value creation initiatives.

    Transaction Advisors

    Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, A Stifel Company, served as financial advisor to the Special Committee of PTMN in connection with the transaction. Stradley Ronon Stevens & Young, LLP acted as the legal counsel to the Special Committee of PTMN.

    Houlihan Lokey served as financial advisor to the Special Committee of LRFC in connection with the transaction. Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP acted as the legal counsel to the Special Committee of LRFC.

    Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP and Dechert LLP served as legal counsel to PTMN and LRFC with respect to the transaction.

    About Portman Ridge Finance Corporation

    PTMN is a publicly traded, externally managed closed-end investment company that has elected to be regulated as a business development company under the Investment Company Act of 1940. PTMN’s middle market investment business originates, structures, finances and manages a portfolio of term loans, mezzanine investments and selected equity securities in middle market companies. PTMN’s investment activities are managed by its investment adviser, Sierra Crest Investment Management LLC, an affiliate of BC Partners Advisors L.P. (“BC Partners”).

    PTMN’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), earnings releases, press releases and other financial, operational and governance information are available on Portman Ridge’s website at www.portmanridge.com.

    About BC Partners Advisors L.P. and BC Partners Credit

    BC Partners is a leading international investment firm in private equity, private credit and real estate strategies. Established in 1986, BC Partners has played an active role in developing the European buyout market for three decades.

    Today, BC Partners executives operate across markets as an integrated team through the firm’s offices in North America and Europe. For more information, please visit https://www.bcpartners.com/.

    BC Partners Credit was launched in February 2017 and has pursued a strategy focused on identifying attractive credit opportunities in any market environment and across sectors, leveraging the deal sourcing and infrastructure made available from BC Partners.

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    Some of the statements in this communication constitute forward-looking statements because they relate to future events, future performance or financial condition. The forward-looking statements may include statements as to future operating results and distribution projections of the Company; business prospects of the Company, and the prospects of its portfolio companies; and the impact of the investments that the Company expects to make. In addition, words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “expect,” “seek,” “plan,” “should,” “estimate,” “project” and “intend” indicate forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements include these words. The forward-looking statements contained in this communication involve risks and uncertainties. More information on the risks and other potential factors that could affect these forward-looking statements is included in the Registration Statement (Registration No. 333-285230) filed with the SEC (the “Registration Statement)” that contains a joint proxy statement and prospectus for PTMN and LRFC (the “Joint Proxy Statement”).

    Although the Company undertakes no obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, you are advised to consult any additional disclosures that they may make directly to you or through reports that the Company in the future may file with the SEC, including the Registration Statement and Joint Proxy Statement, annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K.

    Contacts:
    Portman Ridge Finance Corporation
    650 Madison Avenue, 3rd floor
    New York, NY 10022

    Brandon Satoren
    Chief Financial Officer
    Brandon.Satoren@bcpartners.com
    (212) 891-2880

    The Equity Group Inc.
    Lena Cati
    lcati@equityny.com
    (212) 836-9611

    Val Ferraro
    vferraro@equityny.com
    (212) 836-9633

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Artisan Partners Asset Management Inc. to Announce 2Q25 Results on July 29, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MILWAUKEE, July 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Artisan Partners Asset Management Inc. (NYSE: APAM) will report its second quarter 2025 financial results and information relating to its quarterly dividend on July 29, 2025 at approximately 4:30 p.m. (Eastern Time). Artisan Partners Asset Management’s earnings release and supplemental materials will be available on the investor relations section of artisanpartners.com at that time. Chief Executive Officer and President Jason Gottlieb , Executive Chair Eric Colson, and Chief Financial Officer C.J. Daley will host a conference call on July 30, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. (Eastern Time) to discuss the results.

    A live webcast of the conference call will be available via the investor relations section of artisanpartners.com. Those interested in participating in the conference call should dial:

       
    United States/Toll Free: 1-877-328-5507
    International: 1-412-317-5423
    Conference ID: 10199994
       

    An audio replay of the conference call will be available one hour after the end of the conference until August 6, 2025 at 9:00 a.m. (Eastern Time) by dialing the following:

       
    United States/Toll Free: 1-877-344-7529
    International: 1-412-317-0088
    Replay Conference ID: 4893273
       

    An audio replay will also be available via the investor relations section of artisanpartners.com within 24 hours after the end of the conference.

    About Artisan Partners

    Artisan Partners is a global investment management firm that provides a broad range of high value-added investment strategies in growing asset classes to sophisticated clients around the world. Since 1994, the firm has been committed to attracting experienced, disciplined investment professionals to manage client assets. Artisan Partners’ autonomous investment teams oversee a diverse range of investment strategies across multiple asset classes. Strategies are offered through various investment vehicles to accommodate a broad range of client mandates.

    Artisan Partners Asset Management Inc.

    Investor Relations Inquiries
    866.632.1770
    ir@artisanpartners.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The State Duma approved in the first reading the bill on investment programs in the housing and communal services sector.

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Ministry of Economic Development (Russia) – Ministry of Economic Development (Russia) –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    At a meeting on Tuesday, July 15, State Duma deputies supported in the first reading a systemic bill that will help increase investment in the housing and utilities sector and modernize the utilities infrastructure.

    The bill was prepared in the context of fulfilling the order of Russian President Vladimir Putin to attract budget and private funds in the amount of 4.5 trillion rubles for the modernization of critical infrastructure by 2030.

    “The bill introduces a rule for resource supplying organizations to approve investment programs. We also link these programs with depreciation already taken into account in the current tariffs. In the absence of legislatively established directions for depreciation, it is impossible to track what purposes it is spent on (major repairs, covering current expenses, or placing funds on deposits), since this remains at the discretion of the resource supplying organization,” Deputy Minister of Economic Development Mikhail Kaminsky noted at the plenary session.

    Depreciation charges in the housing and utilities sector are part of the cost of fixed assets that organizations include in their costs to compensate for their wear and tear. Depreciation is already included in the tariffs that the population pays for housing and utilities services, while depreciation can also be used for purposes not related to the modernization of housing and utilities facilities, which leads to insufficient funding of investment programs and accelerated wear and tear of infrastructure.

    Now the direction of depreciation to finance investment programs will become mandatory. This will allow the investment resource already included in the tariff to be used for the development of the industry. According to Mikhail Kaminsky, today no more than 10% of organizations have investment programs.

    The mechanism of regulatory agreements, which will be extended to the heat supply sector and fine-tuned in water supply, will help support investments in the regions of the Russian Federation. The agreement will establish the procedure for determining and changing tariffs for the heat supply organization, and will record the obligations of the subject of the Russian Federation, the municipality to set tariffs for the entire term of the agreement. This is necessary to attract private investment and provide regions and municipalities with the opportunity to provide budget support measures to resource supply organizations.

    “We are thus providing the opportunity to record long-term mutual obligations of resource supplying organizations, regions and municipalities: organizations will receive long-term tariffs that take into account investment programs for a period of at least five years, and regions and municipalities will receive modernized infrastructure facilities,” Mikhail Kaminsky clarified.

    The bill also introduces a unified approach to monitoring the implementation of investment programs. Currently, regional state control over investment programs is carried out within the framework of tariff regulation. Now the bodies authorized to do so, which are determined by the region itself, will work according to the rules of the basic law on control. In particular, they will receive the right to inspect the implementation of investment program activities.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: PBK Miner opens a new era of XRP mining: Increase your daily stable income with the cryptocurrency XRP

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    London, United Kingdom, July 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — PBK Miner, a leader in renewable energy cloud mining, has announced the launch of new mining contracts that allow users to start mining Bitcoin with Ripple (XRP) and other cryptocurrencies. 

    There was a huge surge in the prices of XRP due to the extreme involvement of whales, as the whales held more than 1 million XRP the price rose to $2.75. PBK Miner a revolutionizing mining platform that operates on renewable energy has announced a new mining contract for XRP, that will allow users to mine the Bitcoin by using XRP and many other cryptocurrencies. The easy, convenient and renewable energy based crypto mining of PBK allows its users to earn up to $6,998 every day without any complex knowledge and system. 

    For More Details visit the official website of PBK Miner and download the app to start mining.

    Future of Cloud Mining with renewable energy:
    Renewable energy resources like Solar and wind are used as energy source for mining farms, that reduce the cost of mining significantly. PBK Miner not only utilizes the renewable energy for mining but also feeds the surplus energy to the national grid, making the greener future possible.

    New Cloud Mining Contracts, Higher ROI, Zero Hassle: 
    The newly created mining contracts for XRP are suitable for everyone, weather a person who is new or an experienced person. There are a variety of contracts available from where you can choose according to what suits you best. The minimum contract price is $10.

    Its outstanding features include:
    •Get $10 instant bonus immediately after signing up. (One-click sign up).
    •Daily payouts with higher returns.
    •No additional service fees or management fees.
    •Supports multiple cryptocurrencies including BTC, ETH, XRP, USDT, etc.
    •Affiliate program referral bonusses up to $30,000.
    •Guaranteed 100% uptime and 24×7 customer service support.

    How to get started
    1. Register: Create an account on the PBK Miner platform in a few minutes.
    2. Choose a mining contract: Choose between different investment plans based on your budget and income goals.
    3. Start mining and earn money every day: From the second day on, your income will grow as your passive income is consumed.

    Exclusive access to XRP mining opportunities
    The latest update to PBK Miner introduces a mining model based on Ripple (XRP), allowing users to mine Bitcoin directly using XRP. This opens up a new avenue for XRP holders looking to diversify their income streams and maximize returns.

    Join the Passive Income Revolution
    With over 8.5 million users and more than 100 mining farms worldwide, PBK Miner continues to lead the cloud mining industry with cutting-edge technology and sustainable energy practices. The platform’s latest product provides an easy way to accumulate cryptocurrency wealth, allowing everyone to participate in mining.

    In Conclusion:
    PBK Miner is a company engaged in technical services and abides by local laws and regulations. PBK Miner provides a simple and profitable cloud mining method. PBK Miner’s platform allows you to easily maximize your profits.

    Start increasing your income with PBK Miner’s hassle-free cloud mining solution.
    For more details, please visit PBK Miner official website:

    https://pbkminer.com

    Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release does not constitute an investment solicitation, nor does it constitute investment advice, financial advice, or a trading recommendation. Cryptocurrency mining and staking involve risks and may result in loss of funds. It is strongly recommended that you perform due diligence, including consulting a professional financial advisor, before investing or trading in cryptocurrencies and securities.

    Media Contact:
    Alison Evans
    PBK Miner
    info@pbkminer.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Alexander Novak held a meeting on the implementation of the national project “Efficient and Competitive Economy”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak held a meeting on the implementation of the national project “Efficient and Competitive Economy”.

    It was attended by representatives of federal and regional authorities, the Federal Assembly, the Bank of Russia, public business associations, the state corporation VEB.RF and the Moscow Exchange.

    Representatives of the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Economic Development reported on the current status of the implementation of the federal projects “Development of the financial market” and “Increasing investment activity”, respectively, which are part of the national project.

    The Ministry of Finance is conducting an information campaign to raise awareness among citizens about the possibilities of investing in long-term instruments. This will increase the number of users of long-term savings programs with state support.

    The agency also continues to work to reduce administrative barriers to attract foreign investors willing to invest in the Russian economy.

    The President set a goal to increase the volume of investment in fixed assets by 60% by 2030 compared to 2020 parameters, as well as to improve the investment climate. A representative of the Ministry of Economic Development reported that dozens of projects in the field of private-public partnership and in the field of technological sovereignty are already being implemented with the support of the state and the active participation of businesses. 40 major investment projects are being implemented within the framework of the project financing factory. The process of concluding new agreements on the promotion and protection of capital continues, investors are actively using the federal tax deduction.

    The Deputy Prime Minister instructed the Ministry of Economic Development and the Ministry of Finance, together with industry business associations and investment banks, to continue working to achieve the key indicators of the national project “Efficient and Competitive Economy” and the federal projects included in it in a timely manner.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: Freehold Royalties Declares Dividend for July 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CALGARY, Alberta, July 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Freehold Royalties Ltd. (Freehold) (TSX: FRU) announces that its Board of Directors has declared a dividend of Cdn. $0.09 per common share to be paid on August 15, 2025 to shareholders of record on July 31, 2025.

    These dividends are designated as “eligible dividends” for Canadian income tax purposes.

    Freehold is uniquely positioned as a leading North American energy royalty company with approximately 6.1 million gross acres in Canada and approximately 1.2 million gross drilling acres in the United States. Freehold’s common shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange in Canada under the symbol FRU.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Graphjet Technology Provides Update on Current Events

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, July 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Graphjet Technology (“Graphjet” or “the Company”) (Nasdaq:GTI), a leading developer of patented technologies to produce graphite and graphene directly from agricultural waste, has today filed its Form 10-K filing.

    During the current year, the Company has seen changes to its shareholders whereby the new controlling shareholder, Mr. Aiden, Lee has made numerous contributions to the Company, including providing funds to fund the transformation of the Company. With the funds received from Mr. Aiden Lee, the Company was able to complete its audit for the fiscal year September 30, 2024, albeit later than anticipated due to unforeseen circumstances.

    The Company has made plans to address the current non-compliances with the Nasdaq listing requirements. The Company has and will continue to engage an experienced accounting services firm, to advise the Company and ensure speedy completion of the Form 10Qs for the December 31, 2024 and March 31, 2025. The completion of the Form 10Qs will allow the Company to take necessary measures to raise funds to further expand the capacity and capabilities of the Company.

    A hearing before the Nasdaq Hearings Panel from The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC has been scheduled for July 17, 2025, during which the Company will appeal the delisting determination due to the non-compliances with the Nasdaq listing requirements. However, there can be no assurance that the Company will get a favorable outcome.

    The Company will also be holding a shareholders’ meeting on July 30, 2025 for a reverse split exercise. The Company is confident to secure the shareholders’ approval for the reverse split exercise, which is aimed at ensuring that we meet the minimum price bids.

    With the minimum price bids met and Form 10Qs filed, the Company will be able to attract new investors which will allow our Company to move towards compliance with the minimum market value of listed securities (MVLS). The Company is currently in discussion with a few parties who has indicated their interest in funding the Company.

    “We are confident that our plan to be address the non-compliances with the Nasdaq listing requirements can be implemented. In addition, the Company will make the necessary announcement when the efforts made for the Company’s transformation bears fruit” said Chris Lai, the CEO of the Company.

    About Graphjet Technology Sdn. Bhd.
    Graphjet Technology Sdn. Bhd. (Nasdaq: GTI) was founded in 2019 in Malaysia as an innovative graphene and graphite producer. Graphjet Technology has the world’s first patented technology to recycle palm kernel shells generated in the production of palm seed oil to produce single layer graphene and artificial graphite. Graphjet’s sustainable production methods utilizing palm kernel shells, a waste agricultural product that is common in Malaysia, will set a new shift in graphite and graphene supply chain of the world. For more information, please visit https://www.graphjettech.com/.

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
    The information in this press release contains certain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements generally are identified by the words “believe,” “project,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “intend,” “strategy,” “aim,” “future,” “opportunity,” “plan,” “may,” “should,” “will,” “would,” “will be,” “will continue,” “will likely result” and similar expressions, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Forward-looking statements are predictions, projections and other statements about future events that are based on current expectations and assumptions and, as a result, are subject to risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ from their expectations, estimates and projections and consequently, you should not rely on these forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. Many factors could cause actual future events to differ materially from the forward-looking statements in this press release, including but not limited to: (i) changes in the markets in which Graphjet competes, including with respect to its competitive landscape, technology evolution or regulatory changes; (ii) the risk that Graphjet will need to raise additional capital to execute its business plans, which may not be available on acceptable terms or at all; (iii) Graphjet is beginning the commercialization of its technology and it may not have an accurate estimate of future capital expenditures and future revenue; (iv) statements regarding Graphjet’s industry and market size; (v) financial condition and performance of Graphjet, including the anticipated benefits, the implied enterprise value, the financial condition, liquidity, results of operations, the products, the expected future performance and market opportunities of Graphjet; (vi) Graphjet’s ability to develop and manufacture its graphene and graphite products; and (vii) those factors discussed in our filings with the SEC. You should carefully consider the foregoing factors and the other risks and uncertainties that will be described in the “Risk Factors” section of the documents to be filed by Graphjet from time to time with the SEC. These filings identify and address other important risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events and results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward- looking statements, and while Graphjet may elect to update these forward-looking statements at some point in the future, they assume no obligation to update or revise these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless required by applicable law. Graphjet does not give any assurance that Graphjet will achieve its expectations.

    Graphjet Technology Contacts

    Investors
    ceo.office@graphjettech.com

    Media
    ceo.office@graphjettech.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Capital Southwest Announces Preliminary Estimate of First Quarter 2026 Operating Results and Earnings Release and Conference Call Schedule

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DALLAS, July 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Capital Southwest Corporation (“Capital Southwest”) (Nasdaq: CSWC), an internally managed business development company focused on providing flexible financing solutions to support the acquisition and growth of middle market businesses, is pleased to announce its preliminary operating results for the first quarter of its 2026 fiscal year (quarter ended June 30, 2025) and its first quarter 2026 earnings release and conference call schedule.

    Capital Southwest’s preliminary estimate of its first quarter 2026 pre-tax net investment income is in the range of $0.60 to $0.61 per share. The preliminary estimate of Capital Southwest’s net investment income for the same period is in the range of $0.58 to $0.59 per share.

    Additionally, Capital Southwest’s preliminary estimate of its net asset value per share as of June 30, 2025 is in the range of $16.55 to $16.65. Capital Southwest’s preliminary estimate of its non-accruals as a percentage of the total investment portfolio at cost and fair value is 2.6% and 0.8%, respectively.

    Capital Southwest will release its finalized first quarter 2026 results on Wednesday, August 6, 2025 after the market closes. In conjunction with the release, Capital Southwest has scheduled a live webcast on Thursday, August 7, 2025 at 1:00 p.m., Eastern Time. Investors may participate in the webcast.(1)

    By Webcast:
    Connect to the webcast using the Investor Relations section of Capital Southwest’s website at www.capitalsouthwest.com, or by going to the following website: https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/z383xthy. Please log in at least 10 minutes in advance to register and download any necessary software. A replay of the webcast will be available on Capital Southwest’s website shortly after the call.

    Live Call Participation:
    Participants who want to join the call and ask a question must register using the following URL: https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BI5d3ffcafd99c4efbb0d0d03439433727. Once registered, participants will receive the dial-in numbers and a unique PIN number. When participants dial in, they will input their PIN and be placed into the call. Registration is still possible even after the event has started.

    About Capital Southwest

    Capital Southwest Corporation (Nasdaq: CSWC) is a Dallas, Texas-based, internally managed business development company with approximately $1.8 billion in investments at fair value as of March 31, 2025. Capital Southwest is a middle market lending firm focused on supporting the acquisition and growth of middle market businesses with $5 million to $50 million investments across the capital structure, including first lien, second lien and non-control equity co-investments. As a public company with a permanent capital base, Capital Southwest has the flexibility to be creative in its financing solutions and to invest to support the growth of its portfolio companies over long periods of time.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release contains forward-looking statements and provides historical information with respect to the business and investments of Capital Southwest, including, but not limited to, the preliminary estimates of its first quarter 2026 fiscal year financial information and results, which are based on current information available to Capital Southwest as of the date hereof. The preliminary estimates of the first quarter 2026 fiscal year financial information and estimated results furnished above are based on Capital Southwest management’s preliminary determinations and current expectations, and such information is inherently uncertain. The preliminary estimates may not align with Capital Southwest’s actual results of operations for the period, which will not be known until Capital Southwest completes its customary quarter-end closing and review procedures, including the determination of the fair value of Capital Southwest’s portfolio investments. As a result, actual results could differ materially from the current preliminary estimates based on adjustments made during Capital Southwest’s quarter-end closing and review procedures, and Capital Southwest’s reported information in its Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2025 may differ from this information, and any such differences may be material. In addition, the information furnished above does not include all of the information regarding Capital Southwest’s financial condition and results of operations for the quarter ended June 30, 2025 that may be important to readers. As a result, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the information furnished in this press release and should view this information in the context of Capital Southwest’s full first quarter 2026 results when such results are disclosed by Capital Southwest in its Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2025. The information furnished in this press release is based on current expectations of Capital Southwest’s management that involve substantial risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results expressed in, or implied by, such information.

    Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical statements and can often be identified by words such as “will,” “believe,” “expect” and similar expressions and variations or negatives of these words. These statements are based on management’s current expectations, assumptions and beliefs. They are not guarantees of future results and are subject to numerous risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statement. These risks include risks related to: changes in the markets in which Capital Southwest invests; changes in the financial, capital, and lending markets; changes in the interest rate environment and its impact on Capital Southwest’s business and its portfolio companies; regulatory changes; tax treatment; Capital Southwest’s ability to operate each of its wholly owned subsidiaries, Capital Southwest SBIC I, LP and Capital Southwest SBIC II, LP, as a small business investment company; the uncertainty associated with the imposition of tariffs and trade barriers and changes in trade policy and its impact on our portfolio companies and our financial condition; an economic downturn or recession and its impact on the ability of Capital Southwest’s portfolio companies to operate and the investment opportunities available to it; the impact of supply chain constraints on Capital Southwest’s portfolio companies; and the elevated levels of inflation and its impact on Capital Southwest’s portfolio companies and the industries in which it invests.

    Readers should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements and are encouraged to review Capital Southwest’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended March 31, 2025 and any subsequent filings, including the “Risk Factors” sections therein, with the Securities and Exchange Commission for a more complete discussion of the risks and other factors that could affect any forward-looking statements. Except as required by the federal securities laws, Capital Southwest does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, changing circumstances or any other reason after the date of this press release.

    Investor Relations Contact:
    Michael S. Sarner, President and Chief Executive Officer
    214-884-3829

    (1) No information contained on our website or disclosed on the August 7, 2025 conference call, including the webcast, is incorporated by reference into this press release or any of our filings with the SEC, and you should not consider that information to be part of this press release or any other such filing.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Booker, NJ Democrats Demand ED Release Funding for K-12, Adult Education Funding

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker
    WASHINGTON, D.C.  – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) led his Democratic colleagues in the New Jersey delegation in a letter to Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Russell Vought and Department of Education (ED) Secretary Linda McMahon to demand clarity regarding the Trump Administration’s unlawful decision to withhold nearly $7 billion in Congressionally Appropriated funding for K–12 and adult education programs nationwide, including over $162 million from the state of New Jersey. 
    “On June 30, 2025, just one day before these funds were supposed to become available, the Department of Education abruptly informed states that they would not receive funding as scheduled on July 1… No timeline was given for when states could expect a resolution. Typically, the Department provides state educational agencies with the formula program allocation tables and access to draw down those funds by July 1, which allows states and districts to plan, budget, and begin spending for the upcoming school year. This decision is financially destabilizing school districts across the country and directly jeopardizes the operation of the upcoming school year,” the lawmakers wrote. 
    “The withholding of these funds will have a widespread and detrimental impact on school communities throughout New Jersey, with disproportionate harm to high-need districts. The funds currently frozen represent almost 13 percent of the total federal K-12 funding that New Jersey schools received last year. Compounding this issue, New Jersey public school districts finalized their budgets for the 2025-2026 school year this past spring. Any loss of expected funding will create budget shortfalls, forcing districts to cut essential programs designed to serve students, their families, and educators,” the lawmakers continued. 
    “Congress lawfully appropriated these funds to address critical education needs, including student achievement, after-school enrichment, teacher training, and adult literacy. Withholding these funds is a reckless decision that jeopardizes the education of millions of students, resulting in layoffs, program delays, disrupted planning cycles, and delayed hiring. This also deprives students, especially those in high-need districts, of key academic support. Our schools, teachers, families, and adult learners cannot afford continued uncertainty. We look forward to your prompt response and the immediate release of the funds,” the lawmakers concluded. 
    To see a district by district breakdown of how the cuts will affect schools across America, click here. 
    The letter is cosigned by U.S. Senator Andy Kim (D-NJ) and U.S. Representatives Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ-05), Frank Pallone Jr. (D-NJ-06), Robert Menendez (D-NJ-08), LaMonica McIver (D-NJ-10), Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ-12), Herbert Conaway Jr. (D-NJ-03), Donald Norcross (D-NJ-01), Nellie Pou (D-NJ-09), and Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ-11). 
    To read the full text of the letter, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Global demand for meat and dairy set to rise, but climate and nutrition gaps remain

    Source: United Nations 2

    However, persistent nutritional gaps and mounting environmental pressures reveal a complex path ahead, according to a new study by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) – an influential international policy forum.

    The Agricultural Outlook 2025-2034, released on Tuesday, projects a six per cent increase in global per capita consumption of animal-source foods by 2034 – beef, pork, poultry, fish, dairy and other animal products.  

    The trend is most pronounced in lower middle-income countries, where intake is expected to rise by 24 per cent, far outpacing the global average.  

    “These projections point to better nutrition for many people in developing countries,” said Qu Dongyu, Director-General of the FAO.

    OECD‑FAO

    Agricultural Outlook 2025‑2034

    Increased incomes, better diets – but not for all

    The surge in consumption in middle-income economies is attributed largely to rising disposable incomes, changing dietary preferences and urbanisation. In these countries, daily per capita intake of animal-sourced foods is projected to reach 364 kilocalories, surpassing the 300 kcal benchmark.

    At the same time, consumption in low-income countries will remain low – reaching just 143 kcal per day, less than half the amount deemed necessary for a healthy diet – highlighting stark inequalities in access to nutrient-rich diets and the challenges ahead to ensure everyone is food secure.

    Mr. Qu urged greater efforts to ensure people in the lowest-income countries also benefit from improved nutrition and food security.

    Production expanding but emissions rising

    To meet rising demand, global agricultural and fish production is projected to increase by 14 per cent over the next decade, largely driven by productivity gains in middle-income nations.

    Output of meat, dairy and eggs is expected to grow by 17 per cent, while total livestock inventories are projected to expand by seven per cent.

    However, these gains come at an environmental cost: direct greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from agriculture are set to rise by six per cent by 2034, despite improvements in emissions intensity.

    As production becomes more efficient, the emissions generated per unit of output will decline, but the overall footprint will still grow unless additional measures are taken.

    OECD‑FAO

    Agricultural Outlook 2025‑2034

    Other key findings

    • Cereal yields to grow 0.9 per cent annually, with harvested area expanding just 0.14 per cent per year – half the pace of the last decade
    • By 2034, 40 per cent of cereals will go directly to human consumption, 33 per cent to animal feed, and the rest to biofuels and industry
    • Biofuel demand set to rise 0.9 per cent annually, led by Brazil, India and Indonesia
    • Sub-Saharan Africa’s beef herd projected to grow 15 per cent, though productivity remains just one-tenth of North America’s
    • India and Southeast Asia will drive 39 per cent of global consumption growth by 2034; China’s share falling to 13 per cent from 32 per cent
    • High-income countries to see drop in per capita fats and sweeteners intake due to health trends and policy shifts

    A win-win: More nourishment, fewer emissions

    The report outlines a scenario in which nourishment improves for all, and agricultural emissions are reduced by as much as seven per cent below current levels by 2034.

    Achieving this dual outcome would require major investments to improve productivity, alongside widespread adoption of existing low-emission technologies such as precision farming, improved livestock feed and prioritising nutritional production.

    Future progress will depend on a blend of policy coordination, technological innovation and targeted investments – especially in countries where the gap between demand and nutritional value is stark.

    “We have the tools to end hunger and boost global food security,” said Mathias Cormann, Secretary-General of the OECD.

    “Well-coordinated policies are needed to keep global food markets open, while fostering long-term productivity improvements and sustainability in the agriculture sector.”

    Pivotal role for global trade

    The Outlook also reiterates the importance of trade, given that 22 per cent of all calories eaten will have crossed international borders by 2034.

    “International trade will remain indispensable to the global agri-food sector,” the report stressed.

    “Multilateral cooperation and a rules-based agricultural trade are essential to facilitating these trade flows, balancing food deficits and surpluses across countries, stabilising prices and enhancing food security, nutrition and environmental sustainability.”

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Scores killed in Sudan’s Kordofan region as fighting intensifies

    Source: United Nations 2

    Amid ongoing communication disruptions in the area, confirming the exact civilian death toll remains difficult, but reports indicate that at least 300 people – including children and pregnant women – were killed in attacks on villages in Bara locality, North Kordofan State, between 10 and 13 July.

    During the same period, a series of attacks – including an air strike on a school sheltering displaced families – reportedly killed more than 20 people, in the villages of Al Fula and Abu Zabad in West Kordofan State.  

    OCHA is also alarmed by reports of renewed shelling in Al Obeid, the capital of North Kordofan State, “deepening fears and insecurity among civilians,” the humanitarian coordination agency reported.  

    Tragic civilian toll

    With thousands of people reportedly killed since the beginning of the conflict between former military allies-turned rivals over two years ago, the crisis in Sudan continues to take a devastating toll on civilians. 

    “These incidents are yet another tragic reminder of the relentless toll the conflict is taking on civilians across Sudan,” OCHA reported.

    The office emphasises that civilians and civilian infrastructures – including schools, homes, shelters and humanitarian assets – must never be targeted, and called on all parties to the conflict to “fully respect their obligations under international humanitarian law.”

    Toll from displacement

    Described as “the largest as well as the fastest growing displacement crisis globally,” by the UN refugee agency (UNHCR) in February 2025, displacement continues amid the fighting.

    People fleeing North Kordofan, as well as El Fasher in North Darfur State, continue to seek shelter in the rest of Sudan, including Northern State, with humanitarian partners on the ground reporting more than 3,000 displaced people arriving in the locality of Ad-Dabbah since June.

    Although some have received food assistance, the steady influx of newly displaced families is putting additional strain on already stretched resources.  

    With the rainy season approaching, OCHA warned that further hardship is likely, particularly as heavy rain and strong winds destroyed shelters and food supplies for about 2,700 displaced people in eastern Sudan this past Sunday. 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Booker, Clarke, Kelly, Watson Coleman Reintroduce Bicameral Legislation to Tackle Uterine Fibroids Through Research and Education

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) along with U.S. Representatives Yvette Clarke (D-NY-09), Robin Kelly (D-IL-02), and Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ-12), reintroduced the bicameral Stephanie Tubbs Jones Uterine Fibroid Research and Education Act, legislation that would expand research and raise awareness through public education programs to support women suffering from uterine fibroids. The legislation is named after the late U.S. Representative Stephanie Tubbs Jones of Ohio, who championed this issue.
    “Millions of Americans, including nearly 25% of Black women, will suffer from uterine fibroids by the age of 25,” said Senator Booker. “We must act to prevent, diagnose, and treat fibroids so that affected women can find relief. This legislation will raise awareness, expand research, and improve access to evidence-based care for women struggling with uterine fibroids.”
    “The health crisis Black women across this nation confront every day will not end unless meaningful, targeted action is taken to do so. Today, my colleagues and I have introduced this legislative package as an unprecedented and historic step towards ensuring those who are at-risk or suffering from fibroids and uterine cancer have the support, resources, and care they need to navigate the painful diagnoses far too many have faced throughout their lives. With these four bills, we are not only putting the uterine health of millions first, but we are also carrying on the torch lit by a long line of lawmakers, advocates, and leaders who refused to stand by while women struggle in silence. I am proud to fight for the health equity they have long been denied but have always deserved,” said Congresswoman Clarke.
    “Uterine fibroids can be debilitating, but symptoms are often misunderstood, misdiagnosed, or dismissed while treatment remains out of reach,” said Congresswoman Kelly. “I’m proud to support this legislation to better understand uterine fibroids and develop more effective treatments for everyone — especially for Black women, who are three times more likely to develop uterine fibroids. We must continue to raise awareness, empower women to make their own health choices, and increase funding and research to treat fibroids.”
    “This bill is crucial for understanding, treating, and preventing uterine fibroids,” said Congresswoman Watson Coleman. “Fibroids impact Black women at substantially higher rates, and the current body of medical research is wholly insufficient. This is a serious public health issue that impacts millions of women, contributing to greater overall lifetime stress and decreasing our quality of life. More must be done to address this issue which has gone overlooked for too long. I’m proud to join my colleagues in advancing this bill to raise awareness, provide resources, and mandate research to help relieve suffering for women and girls everywhere.”
    July marks Fibroid Awareness Month, an opportunity to raise awareness for uterine fibroids, which are noncancerous growths of the uterus that impact an estimated 26 million women nationwide. Symptoms of this devastating condition include severe menstrual bleeding, anemia, pregnancy complications and loss, and infertility.
    In addition to the pain and discomfort they cause, uterine fibroids cost the health care system an estimated $5.9 billion to $34.4 billion every year. Despite their prevalence and impact, preventing, diagnosing, and treating uterine fibroids is very difficult. This condition often goes undiagnosed, and even when it is accurately diagnosed, treatment is usually invasive and can lead to infertility. Black women are particularly impacted by this condition as they tend to develop uterine fibroids earlier, have larger and a greater number of fibroids, and have more severe symptoms and complications.
    Specifically, the Stephanie Tubbs Jones Uterine Fibroid Research and Education Act would:
    Expand and intensify research on uterine fibroids and authorize $30 million a year for fiscal years 2024 through 2028 for that effort.
    Require the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to collect data on services provided to people diagnosed with uterine fibroids under Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).
    Create a public education program for uterine fibroids.
    Promote evidence-based care for uterine fibroids among health care providers.
    The full text of the legislation can be found here.
    The Stephanie Tubbs Jones Uterine Fibroid Research and Education Act is being introduced within a legislative package aimed at advancing uterine health initiatives. The package also includes the Uterine Fibroid Intervention and Gynecological Health Treatment (U-FIGHT) Act, the Uterine Cancer Study Act, and the Uterine Fibroids Awareness Month Resolution.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Issa Legislation to Streamline Firefighter Hiring Unanimously Passes Natural Resources Committee

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Darrell Issa (CA-50)

    WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Darrell Issa’s bill, Direct Hire to Fight Fires (H.R. 435), passed the House Natural Resources Committee with unanimous consent. 

    “Wildfires are a known menace in my home region of San Diego and Riverside Counties, and the names of history’s worst fires still echo in our memories: The Cedar Fire, the Harris Fire, the Witch Creek Fire, and the devastating Valley Fire,” said Rep. Issa. “Today’s unacceptably slow hiring process means critical positions used to combat fires go unfilled and blazes burn that much longer. We need this common-sense federal hiring process to bring this available resource where it is needed the most.”

    The legislation grants permanent authority to federal firefighting agencies to streamline the hiring of essential firefighting roles so that no critical position is left unfilled due to bureaucratic red tape.

    “Wildfire season is no longer a specific time of year—it’s now a year-round battle waged by our brave and dedicated wildland firefighters. Devastating wildfires continue to rage on our federal lands as we work today in Congress, and there is no time to waste when it comes to hiring qualified men and women to fight them,” said Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR-04), Chairman, House Committee on Natural Resources. “Thanks to this thoughtful legislation from Congressman Issa, the hiring process for wildland firefighters will be more efficient and expeditious. I’d like to thank him for his leadership on this issue, and I look forward to helping usher this bill through the legislative process.” 

    Read the bill text for Direct Hire to Fight Fires here.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Booker, Senate Judiciary Democrats Demand Hearing with Whistleblower Ahead of Bove Nomination Vote

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker joined all of his Democratic colleagues on the Senate Judiciary Committee in calling for Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-IA) to schedule a hearing to have Erez Reuveni, the former Acting Deputy Director for the Office of Immigration Litigation at the Department of Justice, testify under oath about the recent disclosures of serious misconduct allegations against judicial nominee Emil Bove, including directing Department of Justice attorneys to ignore a court order. Last week, Mr. Reuveni provided the Committee  documentation that corroborates the allegations. The Senators called for the hearing before the Judiciary Committee vote on Bove’s nomination, which is set to take place on Thursday, July 17.
    In a letter to Grassley, the Senators wrote: “We respectfully request that you call Erez Reuveni to testify before the Senate Judiciary Committee prior to the Committee’s vote on the nomination of Emil J. Bove III to be a U.S. Circuit Judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit. Mr. Reuveni has made credible allegations against Mr. Bove, which, if true, clearly disqualify him for a lifetime appointment to the federal bench. Thus, it is imperative that the Committee hear from Mr. Reuveni, under oath, before we vote on Mr. Bove’s nomination.”
    The Senators then cited Mr. Reuveni’s document production related to J.G.G. v. Trump, Abrego Garcia v. Noem, and D.V.D. v. DHS, writing: “Documentation provided by Mr. Reuveni demonstrates that he unsuccessfully attempted to secure government compliance with court orders in three separate cases being overseen by Mr. Bove in his role as Principal Associate Deputy Attorney General.”
    The Senators concluded by highlighting the importance of understanding Mr. Bove’s role in these concerning episodes before voting on his judicial nomination and requested testimony, writing: “Mr. Bove repeatedly gestured at but never invoked deliberative process privilege at his hearing and in answers to written questions, undermining our ability to assess whether Mr. Bove engaged in the alleged misconduct and continuing executive branch officials’ use of ‘non-assertion’ assertions of privilege to defy congressional inquiries.  Calling Mr. Reuveni to testify under oath will allow members of this Committee to appraise the veracity of his claims while defending the Committee’s prerogative to assess Mr. Bove’s qualifications…It is critical that this Committee understands the full scope of Mr. Bove’s actions at the Justice Department prior to voting on his nomination to a lifetime appointment on the federal bench. Given that Mr. Reuveni is willing to testify regarding this matter, we urge you to invite him before the Committee before proceeding to a vote on Mr. Bove’s nomination.”
    To read the full text of the letter, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: New Warren Report Exposes Potential Trump Corruption, Bribery Through Presidential Library Donations

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    July 15, 2025

    Warren analysis reveals at least half a billion dollars in monetary contributions, gifts, in-kind donations flowing into Trump Presidential Library

    Donations come while Trump makes critical decisions that may impact donors; raises serious concerns about bribery, influence-peddling

    Report (PDF) 

    Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) released a new report exposing how companies, special interests, and foreign governments may be pledging donations to President Trump’s future Presidential Library as a corrupt tool to secure favorable outcomes from his administration. 

    “Donald Trump may be using his presidential library as a tool for corruption and bribery while still in office. We could be seeing giant companies like Paramount and Meta and foreign countries like Qatar pay Trump off in plain sight,” said Senator Warren. “Government should work for the American people, not just whichever giant company or foreign government can dump the most money into the president’s future library.”

    Senator Warren’s new analysis reveals that companies seeking favorable outcomes from the Trump administration have pledged to funnel at least $63 million into Trump’s future presidential library. Other gifts and in-kind donations — including a $400 million luxury jet from Qatar, expensive candlelight dinners at Mar-a-Lago, leftover inauguration donations, and more — bring the total value of gifts flowing into Trump’s library to at least half a billion dollars. 

    Presidential Libraries are used to honor a president’s legacy and allow scholars and the public to learn about their time in office. This new report details how giant corporations, special interests, and at least one foreign government are promising donations to President Trump’s future library while his administration makes decisions on mega-mergers, the preservation of a U.S. military base in Qatar, Big Tech regulation, and more. 

    Just weeks ago, Paramount settled President Trump’s lawsuit against CBS’s 60 Minutes for $16 million, with the money funneling straight into Trump’s library. Paramount is currently vying for approval by the Trump administration of its proposed megamerger with Skydance.

    In December 2024, ABC News settled a defamation lawsuit with Donald Trump by agreeing to pay $15 million toward his Presidential Library.

    Past presidents have also accepted suspicious donations while in office — such as the Clinton Foundation accepting a $450,000 donation from a woman pushing for a presidential pardon for her ex-husband, which President Clinton later granted, or a Bush Administration advisor soliciting Presidential Library donations in exchange for arranging meetings with top administration officials.

    “But Trump is doing so at a magnitude that makes glaringly clear the need for common-sense guardrails around donations,” said Senator Warren’s report. 

    Unlike donations to presidential campaigns or inaugural committees, there are almost no restrictions on donations to Presidential Libraries. Even while in office, presidents can solicit unlimited, undisclosed donations from anyone — including foreign nationals, lobbyists, federal contractors, individuals seeking presidential pardons, and corporations with business before federal agencies.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Rethinking London’s future: Zoë Garbett AM response to the Mayor’s London Plan consultation

    Source: Mayor of London

    In response to the Mayor’s publication of the London Plan consultation, Zoë Garbett AM has released a bold set of planning proposals aimed at reshaping the current London Plan to confront the city’s worsening housing emergency and environmental challenges.

    In a city riddled with deep inequality and rising poverty, Garbett’s response sets out a clear call for change.

    Drawing from the experiences and voices of London’s grassroot organisations and campaigners, community leaders, housing justice organisers, disability rights groups and policy experts, this response is rooted in listening to what Londoners really want, and how we can create a city that works for everyone.

    Key proposals in the report include:

    • Social housing must be central to development – not treated as an afterthought or burden – with barriers to its delivery removed.
    • The Green Belt must be protected, not sacrificed in favour of short-term, profit driven schemes that erode London’s much needed green spaces and wildlife.
    • A reversal of the growth-at-all costs mentality with a renewed focus on the principle of good growth.
    • Well-connected transport networks should be the default standard across London.
    • Recognising the importance of ‘emerging heritage’ where we can protect culturally significant spaces created by London’s older and newer diaspora communities – spaces that are too often overlooked or under threat.
    • Valuing and protecting London’s ‘real-life economy’ made up of market stall traders, independent retailers and creators who are embedded in our communities.

    Addressing the need for the consultation, Zoë Garbett, Green Party London Assembly Member said:

    “Each day, London becomes more and more unequal and the divide between those with power and those without grows wider.

    “Private developers are marching through London’s communities unchecked, tearing down places of cultural importance and bulldozing over our green spaces, with the interest of Londoners so far down their priority list.

    “With every tower that rises, their bottom lines come first, while the majority of Londoners are pushed out, priced out and ignored.

    “This cannot continue. We desperately need a radical shift in how we think about land, housing, our green spaces and who London is really for.

    “Our city’s future can’t be decided behind closed doors, it has to be created with the people who live here.

    “I’m looking forward to seeing how the Mayor responds to the recommendations proposed.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CMS Expands Access to Lifesaving Gene Therapies Through Innovative State Agreements

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services

    CMS Expands Access to Lifesaving Gene Therapies Through Innovative State Agreements
    Participating states to test outcomes-based payments for sickle cell disease treatments, improving care while lowering long-term costs

    The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced today that 33 states, plus the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, will participate in the Cell and Gene Therapy (CGT) Access Model, a bold new approach to delivering cutting-edge treatments for people on Medicaid living with sickle cell disease. Participating states represent approximately 84% of Medicaid beneficiaries with the condition, significantly expanding access to transformative care. 

    MIL OSI USA News –