NewzIntel.com

Category: CTF

  • MIL-OSI USA: Krishnamoorthi to Partner With Stevens, Carbajal to Introduce Bill Blocking Unilateral Military Deployments Against Peaceful Protesters

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (8th District of Illinois)

    Legislation comes after Trump deployed National Guard to LA, threatened to ramp up ICE enforcement in Chicago

    WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08) announced he would co-lead the Stop Trump’s Abuse of Power Act with Representatives Haley Stevens (MI-11) and Salud Carbajal (CA-24) to amend the Insurrection Act and limit the President’s ability to deploy active-duty military forces against peaceful protests without the request of a state’s elected leadership. The bill comes in direct response to former President Donald Trump’s recent deployment of U.S. Marines to Los Angeles in the absence of such a request, raising grave concerns about presidential overreach and the misuse of the armed forces for domestic suppression. In recent weeks, Trump and his administration have called to ramp up ICE deportation efforts in Chicago, going so far as to suggest that the city is “next” for a militarized crackdown. 

    “No American President should be able to unilaterally deploy active-duty troops against citizens who are exercising their right to peaceful protest. After watching President Trump send United States Marines into Los Angeles, it’s clear we need to strengthen the guardrails of our democracy to hold this administration accountable. I’m proud to join Representatives Stevens and Carbajal in introducing this legislation to reaffirm the foundational principle that the U.S. military serves to defend our freedoms, not suppress them.”

    The legislation would prohibit the President from unilaterally ordering active-duty military personnel into any U.S. state or territory to respond to peaceful protests or demonstrations unless explicitly requested by that state or territory’s governor or chief executive. The Stop Trump’s Abuse of Power Act reinforces constitutional checks on executive authority and protects the right to peaceful assembly by ensuring that domestic military deployments are not used to intimidate or silence political dissent.

    The text of the bill is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Krishnamoorthi Slams Senate Republicans For Passing Budget That Guts Social Safety Net And Slashes Medicaid To Bankroll Tax Breaks For Ultra-Wealthy

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (8th District of Illinois)

    SCHAUMBURG, IL – Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi issued the following statement in response to Senate Republicans passing their budget reconciliation bill:

    “Senate Republicans just rammed through a budget bill that guts our social safety net and slashes over $1 trillion from Medicaid—all to bankroll massive tax cuts for the ultra-wealthy. Millions will lose health care, families will go hungry, and the ultra-wealthy will cash in. This isn’t fiscal responsibility—it’s moral failure. I’ll fight this cruel betrayal of working Americans every step of the way.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Krishnamoorthi Tours Planned Parenthood of Illinois Center, Calls Out Dangerous Republican Budget Cuts, President Trump, and Recent Supreme Court Decision Following Three-Year Anniversary of Dobbs Ruling

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (8th District of Illinois)

    CHICAGO – Today, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) visited a Planned Parenthood of Illinois (PPIL) facility in downtown Chicago to discuss the potentially drastic impacts of President Donald Trump’s proposed spending bill and the Supreme Court’s decision last week that allows states to cut off government funding for Planned Parenthood. Following a tour of the center, Congressman Krishnamoorthi joined a press conference with PPIL Interim President and CEO Tonya Tucker, providers, and community advocates to denounce both the budget proposal and the Supreme Court decision, calling them both dangerous for Illinoisans and Americans across the country, no matter where they live. The congressman’s visit to the PPIL center came a week after the three-year anniversary of the Dobbs ruling that has allowed nearly 20 states, including several neighboring Illinois, to pass near or total abortion bans.

    “Targeting Planned Parenthood isn’t just about reproductive rights, it’s a direct attack on basic health care for thousands of Illinoisans,” said Congressman Krishnamoorthi. “From the Trump administration’s illegal withholding of Title X funding to the Supreme Court’s Medina ruling allowing states to exclude Planned Parenthood from Medicaid to the GOP’s push to slash $1 trillion from the program, the message is clear: women’s health is on the chopping block. I’ll fight tooth and nail to stop these cruel cuts and protect reproductive health care for all.”

    During the press conference, Senate Republicans began voting on their massive reconciliation budget package. This legislation calls for billions of dollars in cuts to Medicaid, which could result in more than 700,000 Illinoisans losing access to their health care, including more than 30,000 Planned Parenthood patients. Congressman Krishnamoorthi remains committed to fighting back against any cuts to Medicaid and other critical social safety net programs and will vote against the Republican budget bill if it reaches the House floor this week.

    Both Congressman Krishnamoorthi and PPIL’s Tonya Tucker also called attention to the Trump administration’s ongoing efforts to gut Planned Parenthood, even in states such as Illinois that have become sanctuary states for reproductive health care in the years following the Dobbs decision. Under the current Republican budget proposal, one-third of Planned Parenthood health clinics could close nationwide. President Trump has also attempted to withhold federal funding for Title X, which provides resources for family planning and preventative health services, and block coverage for reproductive health care under the Affordable Care Act.

    The Supreme Court’s decision last Thursday to allow states to completely cut off government funding for Planned Parenthood will also have wide-ranging negative consequences, not just for abortion care but also for non-abortion health care such as screenings for cancer, tests for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), and other reproductive care. Illinois already serves as a safe haven for hundreds of thousands of Americans who live in neighboring states that have enacted near or total abortion bans or have forced the closure of most or all of their Planned Parenthood clinics.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Krishnamoorthi, Congresswoman Maloy Lead Bipartisan Effort Urging the FDA to Crackdown on Illegal E-Cigarettes Targeting Children

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (8th District of Illinois)

    WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) and Congresswoman Celeste Maloy (R-UT), co-chairs of the bipartisan Caucus to End Youth Vaping, sent a letter to Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary urging stronger enforcement against illegal e-cigarette products that are fueling youth nicotine addiction. The effort for greater enforcement comes as more than 6,000 flavored e-cigarettes, many of them targeted and advertised at children and young people, remain available for purchase online and in stores, despite the FDA having only authorized the sale of 34 e-cigarettes.

    “These products come in a large variety of youth-appealing flavors, such as pink lemonade, cotton candy, and bubblegum,” the lawmakers wrote, noting that 87.6 percent of youth users reported using flavored products, and 70.3 percent cited flavors as the reason they vape. “Some of the latest e-cigarette products now have built-in video games and smartphone-like features…allowing kids to play video games, send text messages, and use social media.”

    “We applaud Reps. Krishnamoorthi and Maloy and their colleagues for their leadership in urging the FDA to prioritize efforts to continue reducing youth use of e-cigarettes and other tobacco products. We join them in calling on the FDA and other federal agencies to utilize all tools at their disposal to prevent youth tobacco use, including enforcement actions to prevent illegal e-cigarettes from being imported, distributed, and sold in the United States,” Yolonda C. Richardson, President and CEO of the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, said.

    The lawmakers pointed to widespread youth e-cigarette use and the aggressive marketing of products with high nicotine levels and kid-friendly features in the letter. In 2024 alone, over 1.6 million youth, including nearly eight percent of high school students, used e-cigarettes, with 42 percent of high school users reporting frequent or daily use. The lawmakers also expressed their concern about the recent layoffs at the FDA’s Center for Tobacco Products, warning that a smaller staff will make a crackdown on these illegal e-cigarettes challenging. The lack of enforcement opens the door for Big Tobacco to shackle more young people to addiction and the numerous health hazards and chronic diseases that come along with it, such as cancer, heart disease, and stroke.

    Joining Congressman Krishnamoorthi and Congresswoman Maloy in drafting the letter were Reps. Lloyd Doggett (D-TX), Mike Kennedy (R-UT), Lauren Underwood (D-IL), Burgess Owens (R-UT), Blake Moore (R-UT), and Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL).

    The full letter is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi Joins Bipartisan Group of Lawmakers to Introduce PBM Reform Package

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (8th District of Illinois)

    WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) joined with Congressman Earl “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) and nine other members of Congress to introduce the bipartisan PBM Reform Act, legislation that protects patients and independent pharmacies from harmful business practices used by pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs).

    “I’m proud to co-lead the PBM Reform Act to crack down on abusive practices by pharmacy benefit managers and drive down the cost of prescription drugs for working families,” Congressman Krishnamoorthi said. “This bipartisan legislation brings long-overdue transparency and accountability to the prescription drug supply chain, ensuring patients, not middlemen, come first.”

    Specifically, the PBM Reform Act:

    • Ban “spread pricing” in Medicaid and move to a transparent system that ensures pharmacies are fairly and adequately reimbursed for serving Medicaid beneficiaries.
    • Establish new requirements for PBMs under Medicare Part D, including a policy to delink PBM compensation from the cost of medications and increase transparency. 
    • Promote transparency for both employers and patients in their prescription drug plans, with semi-annual reporting on drug spending, rebates, and formulary determinations.
    • Require Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to define and enforce “reasonable and relevant” contract terms in Medicare Part D pharmacy contracts and enforce oversight on reported violations.

    As Ranking Member of the Health and Financial Services Oversight Subcommittee, Congressman Krishnamoorthi has introduced several pieces of bipartisan legislation aimed at reining in the power wielded by PBMs over patients and small, local, independent pharmacies.

    The PBM Reform Act comes just months after a Federal Trade Commission (FTC) interim staff report found PBMs prioritize their own pharmacies over independent businesses and significantly upcharge for specialty generic drugs such as those used to treat HIV, cancer, and other serious medical conditions. These practices have allowed the three largest PBMs to grab control of 80 percent of the prescription drug market, contributing to more than 2,000 local and independent pharmacy closures in 2024. In Illinois alone, 73 percent of counties are classified as pharmacy deserts and have no pharmacies located within 10 miles.

    In January, Congressman Krishnamoorthi toured Del-Kar Drugs in the North Lawndale neighborhood of Chicago, where he spoke about how pharmacy closures are hurting people of color. Congressman Krishnamoorthi also cited data that between 2015 and 2020 in Chicago, more than half of pharmacy closures came in majority Black and Latino neighborhoods.

    Joining Congressmen Krishnamoorthi and Carter in introducing the PBM Reform Act was Reps. Debbie Dingell (D-MI), Greg Murphy (R-NC), Deborah Ross (D-NC), Jodey Arrington (R-TX), Vicente Gonzalez (D-TX), Diana Harshbarger (R-TN), Derek Tran (D-CA), Rick Allen (R-GA), John Rose (R-TN), and Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY).

    “It’s time to bust up the PBM monopoly, which has been stealing hope and health from patients for decades. As a pharmacist, I’ve seen how PBMs abuse patients firsthand, and believe that the cure to this infectious disease is transparency, competition, and accountability, which is exactly what our bipartisan package provides,” Congressman Carter said.

    “For too long, pharmacy benefit managers have been allowed to operate unchecked, raising prices and preventing many patients from getting the medications they depend on,” Congresswoman Dingell said. “I hear from too many Michiganders, especially seniors, who can’t conveniently access the prescriptions they need, due to exploitative PBM practices complicating access to their local pharmacies. Their harmful, aggressive tactics are only getting worse, and we must take action now to protect pharmacies and lower patient costs. I remain committed to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to get this across the finish line.”

    “Unaffordable health care, unclear pricing practices, and a burdensome system that is difficult to navigate has created life-threatening barriers to care for Americans,” Congressman Murphy, M.D, said. “At the heart of this problem are pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), middlemen who withhold money from independent pharmacies, obscure drug costs, and make out like bandits, all at the expense of patients. This corruption of the health care delivery system must stop. For years, we have heard from small business owners, physicians, and patients about the damage greedy PBMs have inflicted. I am proud to support this bipartisan legislation to put an end to the extortion and lower drug costs through increased transparency and competition.”

    “For too long, PBMs have served as unregulated middlemen, driving up prices for life-saving medications for patients,” Congresswoman Ross said. “Nobody should have to choose between paying for life-saving medication and putting food on the table. Our bipartisan PBM Reform Act will protect Americans from abusive practices that raise prices and reduce fairness. I’m proud to work with Rep. Carter on these long overdue reforms. It’s past time to hold PBMs accountable and ensure every American can access the medications they need.”

    “It’s time to put an end to the shady and manipulative practices of pharmacy benefit managers. For too long, PBMs have driven up drug prices and padded their pockets while independent community pharmacies are being pushed to the financial brink. My colleagues and I are committed to changing that. This legislation delivers long-overdue accountability, increases transparency, lowers out-of-pocket costs for families, and saves taxpayer dollars. Local pharmacies and the patients they serve are at a breaking point, and they deserve relief. I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing this bill and look forward to passing real PBM reform that will deliver for both patients and providers,” Congressman Harshbarger said. 

    “Pharmacy Benefit Managers line their pockets and drive up the cost of life saving drugs at the expense of South Texans and the community pharmacies they depend on — this is shameful, dangerous, and must be stopped,” Congressman Gonzalez said. “I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation with Congressman Buddy Carter that puts patients first, increases price transparency, and holds PBMs accountable.”

    “PBM reform has long been a pressing issue, not only in rural Georgia, but across the nation. I am proud to work with Representative Carter on this commonsense package to eliminate the use of spread pricing, make prescription drugs more affordable, and establish rigorous oversight over PBM tactics that threaten access to care. Our health care system is in need of patient-centered, cost-effective, market-driven solutions and this package delivers,” Congressman Allen said.

    “Seniors should be able to fill the prescriptions they need without having to drive long distances or pay exorbitant costs,” Congressman Rose said. “For far too long, Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) have favored large chains and driven away customers from independent pharmacies, especially those in rural communities. I am proud to co-lead this legislation, which will be a gamechanger for countless Tennesseans.”

    “Southern California families are seeing their cost-of-living skyrocket, especially the cost of essential health care. I’m laser-focused on bipartisan, common-sense solutions that bring down costs and ensure that our economy works for working families. My experience running a community pharmacy with my wife showed me firsthand the urgent need for greater transparency and accountability in how Pharmacy Benefit Managers operate. That is why I’m proud to co-lead this bipartisan effort with Representatives Carter and Dingell to reform PBM practices, increase transparency, and put patients first,” Congressman Tran said.

    “I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing this critical PBM reform package, which cracks down on the exploitative pricing tactics of pharmacy benefit managers to make prescription drugs more affordable,” Congresswoman Malliotakis said. “PBMs’ shady practices have left consumers footing the bill and are driving many ‘Mom & Pop’ pharmacies in my district out of business. Our legislation will deliver long-overdue reforms to increase price transparency and protect patients. Now is the time for Congress to act and get PBM reform across the finish line.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Danny K. Davis Condemns Unilateral Military Threats, Urges Diplomacy Over War in U.S.–Iran Relations

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Danny K Davis (7th District of Illinois)

    Congressman Danny K. Davis Condemns Unilateral Military Threats, Urges Diplomacy Over War in U.S.–Iran Relations

    Go ahead once again, President Trump has overstepped his bounds and is acting like a king, dictator, or something worse. Without any interaction or discussion with Congress, he has attacked congressional intelligence. Anything else. Yeah, like the song said, WAR, what is it good for? Absolutely nothing but to kill. Mean, mainly, disrupt and destroy.

    The American people are demonstrating each and every day that we believe Peace and diplomacy are better ways of settling disputes. There’s uncertainty as to what Iran may have or may be developing in the way of nuclear weapons. Let’s rely on intelligence, not the thinking of one man and a few advisors who think whatever they think; let’s negotiate, not bomb.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China Pavilion Day celebrated at Osaka Expo

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

    OSAKA, Japan, July 11 — The China Pavilion Day at Expo 2025 Osaka was held on Friday, drawing over 400 attendees including representatives from China and Japan, as well as delegates from various national pavilions and friendship organizations.

    A large-scale cultural performance themed “Colorful China, Shaping the Future Together” was staged during the event, with performers from China’s Shaanxi Province presenting traditional cultural shows, such as classical instruments performance, martial arts and acrobatics.

    Wu Shengrong, director of the China Pavilion, told Xinhua that since its opening on April 13, the pavilion has welcomed nearly 800,000 visitors from around the world.

    In addition, the China Pavilion has hosted over 20 cultural events featuring provinces and cities, enterprises and thematic exhibitions.

    Running from April 13 to Oct. 13, the expo was themed “Designing Future Society for Our Lives.”

    The China Pavilion, one of the largest foreign self-built pavilions, covers approximately 3,500 square meters. Inspired by traditional Chinese calligraphy scrolls, the pavilion’s architectural design embodies the theme of “Building a Community of Life for Man and Nature — Future Society of Green Development.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement of Representative Danny K. Davis In Opposition of the Big, Bad, Inhumane, and Ugly Republican Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Danny K Davis (7th District of Illinois)

    Statement of Representative Danny K. Davis

    In Opposition of the Big, Bad, Inhumane, and Ugly Republican Bill – July 3, 2025

    I rise in strong opposition and could never vote for this Big, Bad, Inhumane, and Ugly bill because it will wreck health care delivery, take food from hungry children, sentence seniors to early deaths, eliminate jobs, and destabilize our economy just to give the super rich and wealthy more influence, more power, more wealth.  It takes from the poor, from the disabled, from the sick, and from the hungry and gives to the wealthy.  

    This bill is cruel.  

    It is immoral.  

    It is a crime about to happen. 

    It is draconian.

    It is dangerous.

    It is criminal.

    So, if you want to stop crime, vote no as I will. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Johnson Leads Letter Questioning USPTO’s Decision Not To Open ATL Southeast

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Hank Johnson (GA-04)

    Bipartisan, Bicameral Letter Questions Wisdom of Bypassing Opportunity To Open US Patent & Trademark Office (USPTO) Southeast Regional Outreach Office (SEROO) in Atlanta

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04), Ranking Member of the Judiciary Subcommittee that oversees the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office, this week led a letter to Coke Morgan Stewart, acting director of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, to inquire as to why her office no longer plans to launch the Southeast Regional Outreach Office (SEROO) in Atlanta, Georgia, and will instead open it at the USPTO’s Alexandria, Virginia, headquarters.

    The letter was cosigned by Georgia U.S. Senators Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock, and Congressman David Scott (GA-13), Congresswoman Lucy McBath (GA-06), and Congressman Rich McCormick (GA-07).

    The members request answers to their questions about the change by July 9.

    The letter states that at the time when Atlanta was chosen — after a lengthy and protracted process — to be the Southeast office that “the USPTO’s press release announcing the Atlanta office, the city’s “growing and diverse economy,” coupled with the resources available to its large number of startups and innovators “made it a top location for the Southeast Regional Office.” Atlanta, according to the USPTO, “has an active and highly ranked research development community with five Tier 1 research universities, one of the top-tier Veterans Administration research hospitals in the nation, and the Centers for Disease Control.”

    As far as Congressman Johnson is concerned none of that has changed.

    “The entire point of the Unleashing American Innovators Act was to increase participation in the patent system by women, people of color, military veterans, individual inventors, and other groups that are underrepresented in the system,” said Ranking Member Johnson. “Atlanta was rightfully chosen to be that hub because of our vibrancy, innovation and top-notch research institutions. Patents and trademarks are critical elements in creating job growth and jobs and careers of the future. I sincerely hope that the USPTO reconsiders this terrible mistake.”

    To read the letter, click HERE.

    Full letter below

    June 24, 2025
    Coke Morgan Stewart
    Acting Director of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
    P.O. Box 1450
    Alexandria, VA 22313-1450

    Dear Acting Director Stewart,

    On Friday, June 6th, 2025, the US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) announced that it no longer plans to launch the Southeast Regional Outreach Office (SEROO) in Atlanta, Georgia, and will instead open it at the USPTO’s Alexandria, Virginia headquarters. We find this decision highly concerning, and we write to request additional information regarding the decision-making process that resulted in this mistake.

    After the success of the four regional offices created in the America Invents Act of 2011, Congress sought to add offices around the country to improve Americans’ access to USPTO services. Republicans and Democrats worked together to pass the Unleashing American Innovators Act (UAIA), which President Biden signed into law on December 29, 2022.

    The legislation required the USPTO establish a Southeast Regional Office within 
    three years of enactment as well as a community outreach office in the northern New England region within five years of enactment, among other provisions designed to bolster USPTO outreach to small and medium-sized businesses across the country.

    Atlanta, Georgia was chosen as the SEROO location after a lengthy process designed to meet the requirements stipulated under the UAIA, namely considering the proposed sites’ 1) number of patent-intensive industries, 2) number of research-intensive institutions, and 3) number of existing government, legal, and business frameworks that support intellectual property-intensive industries.

    As part of this process, the USPTO issued a request for comments seeking public input on potential regional office locations and received more than 200 comments from the general public, USPTO employees, city and state officials and the business community.

    According to the USPTO’s press release announcing the Atlanta office, the city’s “growing and diverse economy,” coupled with the resources available to its large number of startups and innovators “made it a top location for the Southeast Regional Office.”

    Atlanta, according to the USPTO, “has an active and highly ranked research development community with five Tier 1 research universities, one of the top-tier Veterans Administration research hospitals in the nation, and the Center for Disease Control.”

    While Alexandria, Virginia is in the southeast region of the country, Americans living there are already served by the USPTO headquarters. Regional patent offices allow the USPTO to reach Americans where they live and work. This is not disputed. In fact, the USPTO has an established history of supporting regional offices. In its 2024 report the USPTO wrote, “With the establishment of the regional offices, the USPTO has been able to reach a more diverse set of stakeholders at a more local scale.”

    Regional offices, the USPTO continued, allow it to customize in-person educational programming, “including seminars or workshops that educate customers about the patent application process or how to employ IP strategies for entrepreneurs.”

    The USPTO has also acknowledged that regional offices are good for the health of our patent ecosystem. Opening regional offices, it wrote in 2024, “has had a positive impact on employee recruitment, and has led to the onboarding of over 400 patent examiners” since 2012.

    Regional offices created unique detail opportunities that “create benefits for the employee, the agency, and the public.”

    Atlanta was chosen after an intensive process that invited public input. In contrast, the USPTO’s decision to ignore stakeholders and open the SEROO in Alexandria instead was made with no public explanation whatsoever. We therefore request that the USPTO respond to the following questions by July 9, 2025.

    1. Did the USPTO consider the required factors under the UAIA for the establishment of an SEROO? If yes, please describe the process in detail.

    2. What was the involvement of non-USPTO personnel in the decision to open the SEROO at the USPTO headquarters in Alexandria, Virginia?

    3. How does the USTPO plan to engage with the southeast region from Alexandria, Virginia? Please describe the in-person programming planned particularized to the southeast region.

    4. Does the USPTO plan to allow the public to comment on the decision not to open the regional office in Atlanta, as decided in 2023?

    Sincerely,

    Henry C. “Hank” Johnson, Jr. 
    Ranking Member, Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property, Artificial Intelligence, and the Internet | Committee on the Judiciary House of Representatives

    Jon Ossoff, United States Senator

    Raphael Warnock, United States Senator

    David Scott
    Member of Congress

    Lucy McBath
    Member of Congress

    Rich McCormick, MD, MBA
    Member of Congress

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hepatitis Caucus Co-Chairs Johnson, Velázquez Call on RFK Jr. to Maintain Hepatitis Vaccine Recommendations

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Hank Johnson (GA-04)

    Letter to the Secretary: ‘Gutting this committee undermines the progress we’ve made in public health’

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressional Hepatitis Caucus Co-Chairs Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) and Rep. Nydia Velázquez (NY-07) sent a letter to Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., expressing grave concern over his recent dismissal of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and warning of the consequences for public health, particularly in the fight against liver disease and cancer.

    “For decades, ACIP has served as a trusted, science-based body guiding the nation’s vaccine policy,” said Congressman Johnson. “Its recommendations – including the hepatitis B birth dose – have been instrumental in preventing chronic disease and saving lives. Gutting this committee undermines the progress we’ve made in public health.”

    The hepatitis B vaccine is the first-ever vaccine proven to prevent cancer as it can stop chronic hepatitis B infections – the leading cause of liver cancer in the U.S. The universal birth dose recommendation, in place for over 30 years, has driven a 95% reduction in infant hepatitis B infections nationwide.

    The letter also emphasizes the role of the hepatitis A vaccine in reducing outbreaks and safeguarding individuals with chronic liver disease, noting that 37 states have reported outbreaks since 2016.

    The Caucus Co-Chairs reaffirmed their support for a rigorous vaccine approval process and welcomed further dialogue with Secretary Kennedy to ensure policies continue to be grounded in science, transparency, and a commitment to preventing chronic disease and cancer.

    “Great strides have been made in the last several decades, and countless lives have been saved,” the letter concludes. “To alter the government’s recommended vaccination schedule would not only move us backwards but will cause people to die needlessly.”

    To read the letter, click HERE.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: RANKING MEMBER HANK JOHNSON’S STATEMENT ON SCOTUS’ NATIONWIDE INJUNCTION RULING

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Hank Johnson (GA-04)

    “Today’s draconian Supreme Court decision effectively ending nationwide injunctions makes it much more difficult for federal courts to protect our constitutional rights from Trump’s authoritarian overreach. This decision replaces the concept of Justice For All with a ‘pay to play’ system that works only for those who can afford to pay a lawyer to fight for their rights in court. I am more committed than ever to working to secure the constitutional rights of every American in this country – not just those who have curried the President’s favor.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Johnson Votes Against Big, Ugly Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Hank Johnson (GA-04)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) voted against Trump MAGA Republican Big, Ugly Bill.

    “What has been called big and beautiful is as cruel and ugly a piece of legislation as I have ever seen in my 19 years in Congress,” said Rep. Johnson. “This Big Ugly Bill cuts access to healthcare for 17 million Americans, so thousands each year will die premature and preventable deaths because big shots in government want to give their multimillionaire and billionaire donors — like Jeff Bezos and those who attended his $50 million wedding in Venice — another huge tax cut. This cruel legislation also cuts funding for food to feed the needy. All who vote yes on this Big, Ugly Bill should be ashamed of themselves.”

    To see more of Rep. Johnson’s views on the bill, visit his Twitter account.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Johnson Offers Six Amendments to Trump’s Big Ugly Bill, Seeks Exemption To Worst Effects in Georgia

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Hank Johnson (GA-04)

    Congressman Seeks Deal to Exempt Georgia, While Also Focusing on Reversing Cuts to Healthcare Access for Children, Providing Counsel for Unaccompanied Minors, and Strengthening Environmental Protections

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Tonight, Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) offered six amendments to Donald Trump’s One Big, Ugly Bill, including an effort to exempt Georgia from the worst impacts of the bill, a rule to protect families’ access to Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), provide funding for attorneys for unaccompanied immigrant children, and protect critical funds for innovation and Georgia projects.

    To watch his speech, click HERE.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Norton Introduces Bill to Remove Authority of Federal National Capital Planning Commission to Review D.C.-Owned Property

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (District of Columbia)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) introduced her bill to remove the authority of the federal National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC) to review or approve the development of D.C.-owned real property. 

    “The federal government has no business in local D.C.’s land-use policies and decisions. Not only is the federal government’s authority over D.C property anti-home rule, it delays and increases the cost of development in the District,” Norton said. “Additionally, NCPC’s authority over D.C.-owned real property is unnecessary, as demonstrated by the virtual absence of its use to disapprove sales or development.

    Norton’s introductory statement follows.

    Statement of Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton 

    on the Introduction of the National Capital Planning Commission

    District of Columbia Home Rule Act 

    June 30, 2025

     

    Today, I introduce the National Capital Planning Commission District of Columbia Home Rule Act.  This bill would remove the authority of the National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC), a federal agency, to review or approve the development of District of Columbia-owned real property.  This bill would also remove the requirement that the D.C. Mayor get NCPC’s approval before selling D.C.-owned real property and allow D.C. agencies to transfer jurisdiction over D.C.-owned real property among themselves without NCPC’s approval.  

    Under federal law, NCPC has approval authority for the development of D.C.-owned buildings located in the “central area,” including the location, height, bulk, number of stories and size of such buildings.  D.C. is required to consult with NCPC on the development of D.C.-owned buildings outside the central area, but NCPC has only advisory authority in those areas.  The central area is defined by the concurrent action of NCPC and the D.C. Council and currently consists of the Downtown and Shaw Urban Renewal Areas.  

    NCPC’s authority over D.C.-owned real property violates D.C. home rule and is unnecessary, as demonstrated by the virtual absence of its use to disapprove sales or development.  The federal government should not be able to slow, block or add to the cost of the development of D.C.-owned real property.  

    I urge my colleagues to support this bill.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: As America Gets Closer to its Semiquincentennial, Norton Says D.C. Statehood is Long Overdue

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (District of Columbia)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) said that, as the nation approaches its 249th anniversary of declaring independence from Great Britain in part because of taxation without representation, the Senate must take the nation’s founding slogan to heart and pass the District of Columbia statehood bill.

    “The treatment of D.C. is akin to the treatment of the colonies by the British. The continuation of taxation without representation in the nation’s capital not only violates a main pillar of the revolution that sent our Founders to war,” Norton said. “Allowing the nearly 700,000 Americans who live in the nation’s capital to continue to live as second-class citizens betrays the spirit of Independence Day. On no U.S. holiday is D.C.’s inequality more deeply felt or more at war with the nation’s democratic values than on July 4th. District residents not only pay federal taxes without voting representation in Congress, they pay more federal taxes per capita than any other state. July 4th summons our moral outrage to continue our fight for statehood and full equality for D.C. residents.”

    The House has passed the D.C. statehood bill twice since 2020, most recently on April 22, 2021. 

    D.C. pays more federal taxes than 23 states and more federal taxes per capita than any state.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Norton Introduces Bill to Remove Authority of U.S. Commission of Fine Arts Over Local D.C. Land Use

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (District of Columbia)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) introduced a bill today to remove the authority of the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts (CFA), a federal agency, over District of Columbia-owned property and private property in D.C. The bill would expand home rule for the District. This Congress, Norton has introduced two other land-use home-rule bills, one to give D.C. the authority to appoint all members of the D.C. Zoning Commission and another to remove the authority of the National Capital Planning Commission over D.C.-owned real property.

    “Land-use policies are among the most important priorities for state and local jurisdictions. Whether it is the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts, the D.C. Zoning Commission, or the National Capital Planning Commission, federal authorities should play no role in D.C.’s local decisions about how to use its own land,” Norton said. “Not only is this interference a violation of home rule, it delays and increases costs for public and private development in the District.”

    Under presidential executive orders and federal law, the CFA has review authority over D.C.-owned parks and buildings, as well as certain private land in D.C. Under the Shipstead-Luce Act, the CFA has review authority over the design of private buildings in the District “adjacent to public buildings and grounds of major importance.” Under the Old Georgetown Act, the CFA has review authority over the design of private buildings in the part of Georgetown referred to as “Old Georgetown.” The Members of the CFA are appointed by the President.

    Norton’s introductory statement follows.

    Statement of Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton

    on the Introduction of the Commission of Fine Arts District of Columbia Home Rule Act

    July 7, 2025

    Today, I introduce the Commission of Fine Arts District of Columbia Home Rule Act.  This bill would remove the authority of the Commission of Fine Arts (CFA) over non-federal real property in the District of Columbia.

    Under presidential executive orders (EOs) and federal law, the CFA has review authority for D.C.-owned parks and buildings, as well as for certain private land in D.C.  Under EOs, the CFA has review authority for the design of D.C.-owned parks and buildings.  Under the Shipstead-Luce Act, the CFA has review authority for the design of private buildings in D.C. “adjacent to public buildings and grounds of major importance,” such as Rock Creek Park and the Potomac riverfront.  Under the Old Georgetown Act, the CFA has review authority for the design of private buildings in the part of Georgetown referred to as “Old Georgetown” in the act.  

    The federal government, including the CFA, whose members are appointed by the President, should not have any authority over D.C. land-use policies and decisions unrelated to the federal presence.  Not only is the federal government’s authority over D.C. buildings and private property a violation of home rule, it also delays and increases the cost of public and private development in D.C. 

    This bill is an important step to increase home rule for D.C.  I urge my colleagues to support it.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sánchez demands accountability after ICE agents trespass, urinate on school property

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Linda Sanchez (38th District of CA)

    WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Linda T. Sánchez (D-Calif.) today demanded accountability from the Trump administration after ICE agents were videotaped trespassing and urinating on the grounds of Ruben Salazar High School in broad daylight, near a preschool playground in Pico Rivera, Calif.

    “As a member of Congress, my constituents elected me to conduct oversight duties and ensure that these federal agents – whose salaries are paid by the American people – follow the law and conduct themselves in an appropriate manner expected of law enforcement agents,” the congresswoman wrote.

    Full text of the congresswoman’s letter is available HERE and follows:

    July 3, 2025

    The Honorable Kristi Noem
    Secretary
    Department of Homeland Security
    Washington, D.C. 20528

    Mr. Todd M. Lyons
    Acting Director
    Immigration and Customs Enforcement
    Washington, D.C. 20024

    Mr. Joseph V. Cuffari
    Inspector General
    Office of Inspector General
    Department of Homeland Security
    Washington, D.C. 20530

    I write today expressing grave concern over the conduct of a group of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents at Ruben Salazar High School in Pico Rivera, California on June 17, 2025. 

    According to El Rancho Unified School District (ERUSD), located in my district, ICE agents in 8 to 10 unmarked vehicles attempted to conduct immigration enforcement at the high school. The agents did not provide a judicial warrant, nor did they raise a legitimate reason for their presence on school grounds. ERUSD staff informed the agents that they could not enter or remain on school grounds. The ICE agents subsequently left the school. 

    ERUSD staff then reviewed security footage, which showed approximately 10 agents publicly urinating on school property at approximately 8:54 a.m., within mere feet of a preschool playground. This playground is part of ERUSD’s Early Learning Program. Two other schools are also immediately next to where the agents urinated. 

    ICE agents have routinely disregarded the rule of law in my district. On June 18, ICE unlawfully asserted civil immigration enforcement by arresting and detaining a U.S. citizen in Pico Rivera. And now, it appears that ICE agents could be exposing themselves to minors. 

    Given the potential violation of Cal. Penal Code §§ 314, 290 and 18 U.S. Code § 1752, I demand an investigation from the Inspector General at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). I additionally request that ICE and DHS provide answers to the following questions in the interim.

    1. Upon what basis did these ICE agents choose Ruben Salazar High school to conduct immigration enforcement?
       
    2. Please provide the identification of the 10 ICE agents who exposed themselves on school grounds.
       
    3. Are these agents still employed by ICE? And if so, in what capacity and what disciplinary actions have been taken against them?
       
    4. Will the results of the internal investigation that DHS is conducting be available to the public?
       
    5. What steps are DHS and ICE going to take to ensure that this sort of conduct does not occur again?

    As a member of Congress, my constituents elected me to conduct oversight duties and ensure that these federal agents – whose salaries are paid by the American people – follow the law and conduct themselves in an appropriate manner expected of law enforcement agents. Thank you for your time and consideration, and I look forward to a timely response.

    Sincerely,

    Linda T. Sánchez
    Member of Congress

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Trade Subcommittee Democrats: Trump failed to deliver 90 trade deals in 90 days

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Linda Sanchez (38th District of CA)

    WASHINGTON – Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee Democrats released the following joint statement in response to President Trump’s failure to deliver 90 trade deals in the 90 days since he initially paused his reciprocal tariffs:

    “President Trump has failed to deliver a single trade deal for Congress to consider, let alone the 90 trade deals his administration bragged about three months ago. Trade Subcommittee Democrats remain united against his ongoing trade chaos, which includes the secretive negotiations kept hidden from the public.

    “These backdoor negotiations have produced nothing more than a handful of loose frameworks, vague handshake agreements and concepts of trade plans. President Trump’s trade agenda has failed to improve the economy, while betraying the workers he promised to defend.

    “Americans are bearing the brunt of his erratic trade agenda. Families are facing higher prices at the grocery store, small businesses need relief, and farmers and workers are left with fear and uncertainty. All while the president desperately posts letters on social media begging countries to negotiate with him.

    “There is clearly no strategic or coherent plan in place. It’s time to put an end to this madness. We call on our Republican colleagues to join Democrats and reassert Congress’ role in setting trade policies that support – rather than harm – our economy.”

    Trade Subcommittee Democrats

    Linda Sanchez (D-Calif.), Ranking Member
    Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif.)
    Suzan DelBene (D-Wash.)
    Don Beyer (D-Va.)
    Terri Sewell (D-Ala.)
    Brad Schneider (D-Ill.)
    Lloyd Doggett (D-Texas)
    John Larson (D-Conn.)
    Brendan Boyle (D-Pa.)
     

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Trade Subcommittee Democrats: Trump failed to deliver 90 trade deals in 90 days

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Linda Sanchez (38th District of CA)

    WASHINGTON – Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee Democrats released the following joint statement in response to President Trump’s failure to deliver 90 trade deals in the 90 days since he initially paused his reciprocal tariffs:

    “President Trump has failed to deliver a single trade deal for Congress to consider, let alone the 90 trade deals his administration bragged about three months ago. Trade Subcommittee Democrats remain united against his ongoing trade chaos, which includes the secretive negotiations kept hidden from the public.

    “These backdoor negotiations have produced nothing more than a handful of loose frameworks, vague handshake agreements and concepts of trade plans. President Trump’s trade agenda has failed to improve the economy, while betraying the workers he promised to defend.

    “Americans are bearing the brunt of his erratic trade agenda. Families are facing higher prices at the grocery store, small businesses need relief, and farmers and workers are left with fear and uncertainty. All while the president desperately posts letters on social media begging countries to negotiate with him.

    “There is clearly no strategic or coherent plan in place. It’s time to put an end to this madness. We call on our Republican colleagues to join Democrats and reassert Congress’ role in setting trade policies that support – rather than harm – our economy.”

    Trade Subcommittee Democrats

    Linda Sanchez (D-Calif.), Ranking Member
    Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif.)
    Suzan DelBene (D-Wash.)
    Don Beyer (D-Va.)
    Terri Sewell (D-Ala.)
    Brad Schneider (D-Ill.)
    Lloyd Doggett (D-Texas)
    John Larson (D-Conn.)
    Brendan Boyle (D-Pa.)
     

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sánchez announces Molly Carey as new Chief of Staff, Sarah Skirmont as Legislative Director

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Linda Sanchez (38th District of CA)

    WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Linda T. Sánchez (D-CA) is pleased to announce Molly Carey joined her team as her new Chief of Staff. Additionally, Sarah Skirmont has been promoted from Senior Legislative Assistant to Legislative Director.

    “I’m excited to welcome Molly to our team and to recognize Sarah’s hard work with this well-deserved promotion,” said Congresswoman Sánchez. “Molly brings a wealth of experience and strategic insight that will be invaluable as we continue fighting for working families. Sarah has consistently demonstrated strong policy expertise and dedication to our legislative priorities. I look forward to what we will accomplish together.”

    Carey most recently served as Senior Director for Government Affairs at the American Association for Justice. She was also the Policy Director at the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee and Deputy Chief of Staff for Congressman Sean Patrick Maloney. She is a graduate of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and Notre Dame Law School.

    Skirmont has been with Congresswoman Sánchez’s office since 2021, serving as a Senior Legislative Assistant covering a wide range of issues including health care policy. She is a graduate of New York University.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sánchez: Trump’s Brazil tariff threat is clear abuse of power

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Linda Sanchez (38th District of CA)

    WASHINGTON – Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee Ranking Member Linda T. Sánchez released the following statement in response to President Trump announcing a 50 percent tariff on Brazil over the prosecution of former-Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro:

    “President Trump’s threat to impose a 50 percent tariff on Brazil is a clear abuse of power and the latest example of how he’s weaponizing our country’s trade policies to serve his own interests.

    “It’s clear that he isn’t using tariffs to address unfair trade practices, he’s abusing them to settle political scores and reward those who support or benefit him. In this case, he’s waging a trade war to protect his political ally, Bolsonaro, who is under investigation for allegedly trying to overturn the results of the 2022 presidential election. This is not only antidemocratic but also corrupt.

    “It’s time for Congress to put an end to the president’s abuse of tariffs and reclaim our constitutional authority over trade. If we don’t, the president will continue to manipulate the system to benefit himself and his allies at the expense of American workers and interests.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bipartisan resolution introduced honoring journeyman lineworkers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Linda Sanchez (38th District of CA)

    WASHINGTON – Representatives Linda T. Sánchez (D-Calif.), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Pa.), Donald Norcross (D-N.J.) and Rob Bresnahan (R-Pa.) today led 143 members of the House of Representatives in introducing a bipartisan resolution designating July 10 as Journeyman Lineworkers Recognition Day.

    “Every day, lineworkers rise to the challenge – often working long hours in hazardous conditions – to keep the lights on and our communities running,” said Congresswoman Sánchez, the first woman member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) elected to Congress. “From rebuilding the grid after major storms to maintaining the systems that power our daily lives, their steadfast dedication ensures that our communities stay connected.”

    “Our journeyman lineworkers are the frontline defenders of our infrastructure. They respond without hesitation – often at great personal risk – to restore the power that sustains our homes, hospitals, and economy. In Pennsylvania’s First District and across the nation, I’ve met with these dedicated men and women, listened to their concerns, and worked to ensure they have the respect, protection, and resources they deserve. This resolution is not merely symbolic – it is a formal recognition of their service and a promise to have their backs, just as they always have ours,” said Congressman Fitzpatrick.

    “As an electrician by trade, I’m proud to join Representatives Sánchez, Fitzpatrick and Bresnahan in introducing a resolution to designate July 10th as Lineworkers Appreciation Day, recognizing the 120,000 lineworkers across the country who work tirelessly to power our communities,” said Congressman Norcross, co-chair of the Congressional Labor Caucus. “These men and women often work throughout the night in hazardous conditions and after natural disasters to keep America on, and they deserve to be honored for their courageous efforts.”

    “I want to express my deep gratitude to the skilled men and women who work around the clock not only on Journeyman Lineworkers Recognition Day, but every day,” said Congressman Bresnahan. “As the former Chairman of an IBEW Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee, I know firsthand the dedication lineworkers have to keeping our lights on and our communities running smoothly. I am glad to join Representatives Sánchez, Fitzpatrick, and Norcross to recognize their vital importance to our communities.”

    “America’s lineworkers are heroes in every sense of the word, putting their own safety on the line day in and day out to provide the electricity that powers every aspect of our modern lives,” said Kenneth W. Cooper, international president of the IBEW. “Honoring them on this day is fitting, but our gratitude for them and the work they do lasts year-round. The IBEW is proud to represent the best of the best of our nation’s lineworkers and to thank them for all they do for all of us.” 

    “On this 2025 Lineworker Appreciation Day, we proudly honor the hardworking men and women who keep our lights on and our communities safe – no matter the weather or the hour,” said David Long, CEO of the National Electrical Contractors Association. “Their skill, sacrifice, and service power America every day. On behalf of our contractors and their employees across our nation, I want to extend our sincere thanks to Representatives Linda Sánchez, Donald Norcross, Brian Fitzpatrick, and Rob Bresnahan for introducing this year’s bipartisan resolution, ensuring our nation never forgets the vital role lineworkers play in our everyday lives.”

    “EEI and our member electric companies proudly recognize America’s lineworkers today and every day. These brave men and women are essential to delivering the safe, reliable, and affordable electricity that drives our nation’s economy and powers our communities and our daily lives” said Drew Maloney, president and CEO of Edison Electric Institute. “Lineworkers are the face of our industry and work day and night—often in dangerous conditions—to keep the lights on. We thank Representatives Sanchez, Bresnahan, Fitzpatrick, and Norcross for their leadership in honoring their service.”

    The resolution designates July 10 as National Journeyman Lineworkers Day to honor Henry Miller, the founder and first president of the IBEW. Miller began his career at age 14 as a water boy on a government telegraph project in Texas. Years later, while working as a lineman, Miller became acutely aware of the dangerous conditions and subpar wages his fellow workers faced. He traveled across the country to organize linemen and was elected as the first president of the National Brotherhood of Electrical Workers in 1891. Sadly, Miller suffered a fatal fall on July 10, 1896, while working to solve a power outage in Washington, D.C. Today, the IBEW represents one of the largest and most diverse unions in the country.

    Congresswoman Sánchez, a former member of the IBEW Local 441 and labor lawyer, first introduced this resolution in 2014.

    The full text of the resolution is available HERE.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Chu, Sen. Coons lead Bicameral Letter Demanding Accountability for President Trump’s Discriminatory Travel Ban

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

    Members blast President Trump’s travel ban: “We write to express our strong opposition to President Trump’s recent decision to issue a sweeping travel ban that will deny entry to thousands of individuals from 19 different countries.”

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Leading 68 of their Democratic colleagues, Rep. Judy Chu (CA-28) and Senator Chris Coons (DE) sent a letter today to the Trump administration urging President Trump to rescind his discriminatory travel ban that will keep families apart and devastate the U.S. economy. The Members are demanding transparency into President Trump’s decision-making process and answers about how the travel ban will impact communities across the U.S.  

    In a letter addressed to President Trump, Secretary of Homeland Security Noem, Secretary of State Rubio, and Attorney General Bondi, the Members outlined the disastrous consequences that President Trump’s travel ban will have on both families and the American economy: “The effects of President Trump’s discriminatory travel ban will be devastating. In the last year alone over 126,000 visas have been issued to nationals from just the twelve countries on the fully restricted list.  These are individuals who are looking to come to the United States to reunite with family, support our economy, or otherwise enrich our country in innumerable ways.”

    During his first term, President Trump enacted extreme ravel bans that disrupted thousands of lives and weakened our nation’s economy and global standing. On his first day in office President Biden rescinded these bans, but on June 4, 2025, President Trump enacted another sweeping, discriminatory travel ban and allowed fear and prejudice to guide our nation’s immigration policy.

    President Trump’s ban will prevent nationals from twelve countries (Afghanistan, Chad, Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Myanmar, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen) from entering the United States, with seven other countries (Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela) facing partial restrictions, meaning individuals from these countries cannot come to the U.S. permanently or apply for certain visas. President Trump is also reportedly considering imposing travel restrictions on an additional 36 countries.

    “President Trump’s actions once again disgrace the founding principles of our nation and enshrine cruelty into our immigration system,” the Members continue. “Additionally, this travel ban will harm our economy by depriving the United States of workers in key fields experiencing labor shortages like medicine and agriculture and further devastating our domestic tourism industry which is already expected to decline by $12.5 billion in 2025.”

    As a result, the Members demand accountability and answers from the Trump administration: “Given these severe impacts, we condemn this proclamation and urge President Trump to rescind it immediately. We also seek transparency into President Trump’s decision-making process and, accordingly, request answers to the following questions by July 3rd, 2025.”

    Earlier this year, Rep. Chu, along with Reps. Nadler (NY-12), Beyer (VA-08), Omar (MN-05), Carson (IN-07), and Tlaib (MI-12), and Senator Coons (DE) reintroduced the National Origin-Based Antidiscrimination for Nonimmigrants (NO BAN) Act, which would prevent any president from implementing a discriminatory travel ban by strengthening the Immigration and Nationality Act to prohibit discrimination based on religion. The bill would also require that any suspension of entry into the United States be narrowly tailored, backed by credible evidence, and subject to appropriate consultation with Congress.

    Click here to access the full letter.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Chu Demands Answers on Discontinuation of $1 Billion in School Mental Health Grants

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Reps. Judy Chu (CA-28), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Lucy McBath (GA-06), and Don Bacon (NE-02) led a bipartisan letter to the Department of Education demanding answers following reports that the agency plans to reallocate $1 billion in federal mental health grant funding. This funding was originally approved by Congress through the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which passed with broad bipartisan support to address the critical shortage of mental health professionals in schools.

    “Students are six times as likely to receive needed mental health care when it is provided at school, and the majority of youth who receive needed services do so at school,” wrote the Members. “This includes prevention, early detection, and early intervention efforts, which are critical components of comprehensive mental and behavioral health services and crisis prevention.” 

    “Integrating mental health services in schools has helped both students and staff succeed by addressing issues such as bullying, self-esteem, and suicide, while improving schools’ capacity to identify, refer, and provide services to help students in need,” the Members continued. School-based mental health professionals have improved staff retention, helped keep students in school, and promoted learning environments where students feel safe, supported, and ready to learn.”

    The Bipartisan Safer Communities Act provided $500 million each to the only two existing grant programs focused on addressing the critical shortage of school-based mental health professionals and increasing access to vital school-based services: the Mental Health Services Professional Demonstration Grant and the School-Based Mental Health Services Program. In just nine months, these two federal grant programs have delivered measurable outcomes, including:

    • Mental Health Services Professional Demonstration (MHSP) Grants:
      • Trained 1,767 school mental health professionals
      • Placed 1,191 graduate trainees in high-need schools
      • Hired 133 new providers
    • School-Based Mental Health Services (SBMH) Grants:
      • Hired 1,163 school mental health professionals
      • Retained 13,155 existing staff

    Provided services to more than 774,000 students

    “Now is not the time to turn back on investing in our children’s mental health and the mental health workforce,” the Members concluded. “Uncertainty jeopardizes the work that has been done to increase comprehensive youth mental and behavioral health services, and the availability of school-based mental health professionals across the country.”

    The letter calls on the Department to provide a comprehensive response by July 14, 2025, detailing:

    • The Department’s strategy to address the youth mental health crisis;
    • How any reallocation or recompete process will sustain or expand services to students;
    • How the Department will ensure funding continues to reach the very school-based programs Congress specifically established and expanded through BSCA.

    “As the only psychologist in Congress and a former educator for over 20 years, I know firsthand how important school psychologists are to the mental health and well-being of students. And yet we currently have a nationwide shortage of school psychologists, with an average of over 1,000 students for every 1 school psychologist—a far cry from the recommended ratio of 500 to 1,” said Congresswoman Judy Chu “At a time when about 1 in 5 students struggles with a mental health disorder, we should be increasing, not decreasing, our investments to ensure students have access to the help they need. I’m proud to join my colleagues in sending this letter, and I look forward to getting answers from the Department of Education on why they recently discontinued $1 billion in federal grants for schools to hire more mental health professionals and what their plan is to address the youth mental health crisis.”

    “These funds were never intended to be a theoretical exercise—they were designed to confront an urgent crisis affecting millions of children,” said Congressman Fitzpatrick. “With youth mental health challenges at an all-time high, any disruption or diversion of resources threatens to reverse hard-won progress and leave communities without critical supports. It is important for the Department to share a clear plan to ensure these resources remain dedicated to expanding mental health support for students.”

    “Increasing access to school psychologists and other school mental health professionals is critical to supporting student learning and well-being. The U.S. Department of Education must continue prioritizing efforts that address the nationwide shortage of these professionals by reinstating grant programs that have already proven their impact. We are grateful for Representative Fitzpatrick’s continued leadership in support of these programs and look forward to the Department’s timely response. NASP stands ready to work with our partners in the federal government to ensure that every student has access to school psychologists and the critical services we provide,” said National Association of School Psychologists President, Dr. Peter Faustino.

    Click here to read the letter.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Chu Votes Against Trump’s One Big Ugly Bill

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 1, the Big Ugly Bill, President Trump and Republicans’ budget reconciliation package, by a vote of 218-214. Rep. Judy Chu (CA-28) voted no and released the following statement: 

    “Today’s vote left no doubt about President Trump’s legacy. He is now responsible for the largest cut to health care in U.S. history that will kick 17 million Americans off their health care. He is responsible for taking food off the tables of children and Veterans, and for rigging our tax code so severely that the poorest families will see their tax bills go up while the top 0.1% get a $300,000 tax handout in one year alone. He will always be the President who, despite claiming to be “the best” for American women, defunded Planned Parenthood -a backdoor version of a nationwide abortion ban. He will be remembered as the President who sold off our country’s future by passing tax cuts for the rich that are so enormous they will explode our national debt by $4 trillion and severely inhibit our country’s ability to respond to a crisis, like a recession sparked by the President’s senseless trade war. Every single Republican who voted yes on this monstrous bill will share this legacy. 

    “When rural hospitals and nursing homes shut their doors, when health insurance premiums skyrocket, and when sick people die because they were kicked off of Medicaid, Americans will know that President Trump and Republicans chose to inflict this pain. When prices go up and their bank accounts shrink while billionaires get richer and richer, they will know whose fault it is. President Trump and Republicans in Congress knew the consequences, but believed it was an acceptable cost to give the ultra-wealthy, like President Trump himself and Elon Musk, trillions of dollars in tax giveaways.”   

    “Trump’s one big, ugly bill is a nightmare for American families, there is no excuse.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Judy Chu Announces Winners of 16th Annual Artistic Discovery Congressional Art Competition

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

    Congresswoman Judy Chu (CA-28) proudly announced the winners of her 16th Annual Artistic Discovery Congressional Art Competition, with Leqi Yang’s piece, Under the Same Sun, earning first place.

    The Congressional Art Competition is a nationwide program that honors the creativity and vision of high school students. Each year, Rep. Chu’s district competition showcases the extraordinary talent of young artists from California’s 28th District. A panel of local judges selected the winners based on originality, technique, and emotional resonance.

    As the first-place winner, Leqi’s artwork will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one year, alongside other winning pieces from across the country. Additional standout submissions will be exhibited in Rep. Chu’s Washington, D.C. and district offices.

    “I’m honored to continue this tradition of showcasing youth voices through art,” said Rep. Chu. “Each year, I’m amazed by the vision and depth our students bring to their work. Through their art, they explore difficult topics, express powerful emotions, and remind us of the strength and hope that creativity brings to our community. Leqi’s piece, Under the Same Sun, beautifully highlights the vital contributions of immigrant workers in our community, and in times like these, that message couldn’t be more important.”

    This year’s winners and their artworks are below: 

    1st Place: Leqi Yang, Under the Same Sun

    2nd Place: Andrea Dorantes, Baking Bliss

    3rd Place: Seoyoon Kim, Fiery Resolve

    Honorable Mention: Jay Chen, In Another World

    Honorable Mention: Angelia Chang, Mao Juxiang

    Honorable Mention: Jolean Feng, Hope for a Greener Future

    Honorable Mention: Abigail Hillman, Critical Eye

    Honorable Mention: Meitong Liu, Frail

    Honorable Mention: Sven Leu, Duomo de Florencia

    Honorable Mention: Ziqian “Jacky” Xing, Men and Nature

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Six Months After the Eaton Fire, Rep. Judy Chu Continues to Advocate for Recovery Efforts

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

    PASADENA, CA – Six months after the devastating Los Angeles fires, including the Eaton Fire, which claimed 18 lives, scorched over 14,000 acres, destroyed more than 9,500 structures including homes, businesses, churches, and nonprofit centers, and displaced 20,000 residents—Rep. Judy Chu released the following statement: 

    “Six months ago, our community was forever changed by the Los Angeles wildfires. Today, we remember the lives lost, the homes destroyed, and the bravery of those who stood in the face of unimaginable devastation, said Rep. Judy Chu.” “While we’ve made tremendous progress in delivering critical aid and coordinating relief on the ground, our work is far from over. We still face urgent challenges like securing affordable, long-term housing for those displaced. That’s why I’m working tirelessly in Congress to pass a supplemental assistance package that will fulfill Governor Newsom’s request for $40 billion in additional disaster aid to ensure that every survivor has the resources they need to recover and rebuild. As climate change fuels more frequent and devastating natural disasters across the country, we must remember that natural disasters have no political affiliations. And neither should our response. Every American deserves swift and fair federal aid no matter where they live or who they voted for.”

    From the moment the fires began, Rep. Judy Chu has worked to secure every possible resource for Altadena and Pasadena. 

    On January 7, 2025, the Eaton Fire ignited. Rep. Chu immediately returned from Washington, D.C., to ensure residents receive urgent assistance and support the first responders working around the clock.

    On January 8, Governor Gavin Newsom, with support from Rep. Chu and the California Congressional Delegation, formally requested a federal emergency declaration. President Biden swiftly approved the request, unlocking 100% reimbursement of firefighting costs and deploying federal agencies like FEMA and the SBA to provide immediate support.

    By January 10, after joining FEMA’s Administrator for a site tour and briefing, Rep. Chu released a comprehensive resource guide to help survivors access aid.

    On January 17, Rep. Chu hosted a telephone town hall with representatives from local, state, and federal agencies to address community concerns around recovery and rebuilding.

    On January 22, Rep. Chu demanded an independent investigation into deadly evacuation order delays issued in western Altadena during the start of the Eaton Fire.

    On January 25, during President Trump’s visit to California, Rep. Chu personally urged him not to forget the people of Altadena and Pasadena and to deliver additional disaster aid without conditions.

    Throughout January and February, Rep. Chu led several Congressional delegations, including Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Republican colleagues, to witness the devastation and build bipartisan support for relief efforts.

    On February 4, ahead of his meeting with President Trump, Governor Newsom met with Rep. Chu, Rep. Sherman, and Rep. Whitesides to align disaster relief efforts on behalf of Los Angeles fire survivors.

    On February 20, Rep. Chu hosted a community town hall at Metropolitan Baptist Church in Altadena with FEMA, the EPA, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to answer questions and address concerns regarding the federal debris removal program.

    On March 4, Rep. Chu welcomed Eaton Fire survivor and lifelong educator Dianne Lewis to attend President Trump’s Joint Address to Congress as her guest.

    On March 6, Rep. Chu and a bipartisan coalition of Members introduced H.R. 1914, the HIRE CREDIT Act to help victims of federally-declared disasters return to the workforce.

    On April 3, the House unanimously passed Rep. Chu’s and Rep. David Kustoff’s legislation – H.R. 517, the Filing Relief for Natural Disasters Act! This bill allows the IRS to immediately extend federal tax filing deadlines for victims of natural disasters, even those that are not federally-declared disasters. 

    On April 17, Rep. Chu introduced H.R. 2928, the Mortgage Relief for Disaster Survivors Act, to provide mortgage forbearance for homeowners impacted by the Eaton Fire and other natural disasters.

    On May 20, alongside Rep. Brad Sherman, Rep. Chu hosted a roundtable with California Members of Congress and Los Angeles County officials to assess ongoing recovery efforts from the Palisades and Eaton Fires.

    On May 27, Rep. Chu convened a wildfire recovery housing roundtable in Altadena focused on addressing the urgent need for stable, long-term housing. Nonprofits, advocates, and government leaders came together to find solutions for displaced families.

    On June 3, Rep. Chu led a letter with California Delegation Members to FEMA urging them to provide comprehensive soil testing and a remediation plan for fire-affected properties in Los Angeles County.

    On June 16, Rep. Chu led California lawmakers in a letter calling on FEMA to expand housing assistance for fire survivors. 

    As of July 2025, FEMA has delivered $141 million in federal disaster assistance to eligible LA County residents affected by the wildfires, including $45 million in housing assistance. 

    Today, Rep. Chu continues to fight for critical disaster aid by urging President Trump and House Republicans to fulfill Governor Newsom’s request and pass much-needed relief legislation. 

    “This fight is far from over, and I remain committed to ensuring that every survivor receives the resources they need to recover and rebuild, said Rep. Chu.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman DeSaulnier Announces Virtual Town Hall on Protecting Democracy

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mark DeSaulnier Representing the 11th District of California

    Walnut Creek, CA – Congressman Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10) announced today that he will host a virtual town hall on protecting democracy amidst attacks on constitutional rights and democratic norms from the Trump Administration on Tuesday, June 24that 4:00 p.m. PT. 

    To discuss the Trump Administration and congressional Republicans’ attempts to undermine the separation of powers and curb the rights of Americans, and to highlight the legal victories that have put a stop to some of the Administration’s actions, Congressman DeSaulnier will be joined by special guests from Democracy Forward, a legal nonprofit working to defend democracy in the courts. The Congressman and panelists will also take questions live.

    Virtual Town Hall on Protecting Democracy 
    Tuesday, May 24th
    4:00 p.m. PT
    Hosted on Zoom 
    Streamed to YouTube

    To reserve your spot and receive a Zoom link or to request special accommodations, visit https://desaulnier.house.gov/town-hall-rsvp or call (925) 933-2660.

    This will be Congressman DeSaulnier’s 234th town hall and mobile district office hour since coming to Congress in January 2015.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman DeSaulnier to Visit County Hospital and Hold Press Conference on Republican Attempts to Cut Funding for Hospitals and Health Care Services

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mark DeSaulnier Representing the 11th District of California

    Walnut Creek, CA – Today, Congressman Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10) announced he will visit Contra Costa Regional Medical Center (CCRMC) and then hold a press conferenceon Friday, June 20that 3:00 p.m. as part of House Democrats’ Save Our Hospitals Week of Action to highlight how the Trump Administration’s One Big, Ugly Bill will devastate hospitals like CCRMC and gut health care services for millions of Americans across the country and in California’s 10th Congressional District. 

    Prior to the press conference, Congressman DeSaulnier will hold a roundtable with County health leaders to hear from them directly about how the Trump cuts will harm CCRMC’s operations and patient care.

    CCRMC is the County’s 166-bed full-service hospital and is the central hub of Contra Costa Health’s nine outpatient health centers. Contra Costa Health serves an estimated 515,000 patients annually.
     

    WHO: Congressman Mark DeSaulnier

                Dr. Sergio Urcuyo, Chief Medical Officer for Contra Costa Regional Medical Center

    WHEN: Friday, June 20th from 3:00 to 3:30p.m. PT

    WHERE: Contra Costa Regional Medical Center (2500 Alhambra Avenue, Martinez, CA)

                      Parking available curbside along the circle.

    RSVP: Please RSVP to Mairead Glowacki at (202) 760-1365 or mairead.glowacki@mail.house.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman DeSaulnier Announces Town Hall in Antioch

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mark DeSaulnier Representing the 11th District of California

    Walnut Creek, CA – Congressman Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10) announced today that he will host an in-person town hall on Monday, June 30that 6:30 p.m. Topics to be covered include the Trump Administration’s attacks on our constitutional rights and the situation in the Middle East. 

    Town Hall
    Monday, June 30th
    6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
    Antioch, CA
    RSVP for Location

    The event is RSVP only and capacity is limited. To reserve your spot or request special accommodations, visit https://desaulnier.house.gov/town-hall-rsvp or call (925) 933-2660. 

    This will be Congressman DeSaulnier’s 235th town hall and mobile district office hour since coming to Congress in January 2015.

    MIL OSI USA News –