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Category: CTF

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Crow Leads Bipartisan Bill to Help Servicemembers Suffering from Traumatic Brain Injury

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

    WASHINGTON – Congressman Jason Crow (D-CO-06), a former Army Ranger, has introduced the Support Modern Approaches in Recovery Technology for Traumatic Brain Injury (SMART for TBI) Act, bipartisan legislation that would improve care for active-duty servicemembers suffering from traumatic brain injury (TBI) by identifying ways that digital technology can be used to better deliver care.

    Due to the rigors of military training and combat, servicemembers are particularly vulnerable to traumatic brain injury. TBI affects brain function, and if left untreated, people have a higher risk of experiencing mental health or substance use problems, as well as an increased risk of suicide. Between 2000 and 2019, more than 400,000 American servicemembers were diagnosed with at least one TBI – and more than 185,000 veterans have been diagnosed with TBI through the VA system. 

    Congressman Crow’s Support Modern Approaches in Recovery Technology for Traumatic Brain Injury (SMART for TBI) Act would require the establishment of a working group to identify ways digital technology can treat our active-duty servicemembers with TBI. Congressman Jeff Crank (R-CO-05) joined Congressman Crow in introducing this bipartisan legislation.

    “As a veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan, caring for our servicemembers is personal to me,” said Congressman Crow. “That’s why I’m introducing a bipartisan bill to identify new ways to treat traumatic brain injury & deliver world-class care for our servicemembers.”

    “I am proud to cosponsor the SMART for TBI. We owe it to our service men and women, along with our veterans, to advance Traumatic Brain Injury treatments. Using Artificial Intelligence and digital health technologies, we can improve outcomes for servicemembers and veterans in training and operational environments,” said Congressman Jeff Crank.

    “Conducting innovative medical research into traumatic brain injuries is crucial for active duty warfighters, veterans, and first responder communities,” noted Vik Bebarta, MD, interim chair of Emergency Medicine and the director of the Center for Combat and Battlefield Research at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus.  “We are grateful for Congressman Crow and Congressman Crank’s leadership by introducing SMART TBI Act,  ensuring Colorado remains the leader in digital health innovation and TBI treatment.”

    As an Iraq and Afghanistan veteran, ensuring America’s military servicemembers and their families get the appropriate care and resources is a top priority for Congressman Crow. In the 118th Congress, he introduced the Veteran’s Sentinel Act, bipartisan legislation to respond to suicide by US veterans at Department of Veterans’ Affairs (VA) facilities by improving the accuracy of data collection and enhancing congressional oversight. Previously, he introduced the Justice Involved Veterans Support Act and supported the PACT Act, which expands health care to millions of servicemembers exposed to toxic chemicals.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pappas Leads Amendments to Protect Granite Staters’ Access to Health Care and Food Assistance

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chris Pappas (D-NH)

    Pappas’s amendments would strike provisions that will imperil Granite Staters’ access to Medicaid and food assistance, as well as pass increased costs onto the state if the bill passes.

    Today Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) filed two amendments to the Senate-passed Republican reconciliation bill to protect Granite Staters’ access to Medicaid and food assistance and prevent Congress from passing the burden of cuts to these programs onto the state.

    “This bill is a betrayal of working families, and it is also a betrayal of states like New Hampshire that will be forced to shoulder the burden of increased costs being passed on to them by Congress – all in the name of another tax break for the wealthiest Americans and the biggest corporations,” said Congressman Chris Pappas. “Just yesterday I met with providers who shared how these Medicaid provisions in particular will rip health care coverage away from more Granite Staters, strain resources at our clinics and hospitals, and destabilize our state’s health care system. Families struggling to make ends meet deserve better than to have their access to care and healthy nutrition ripped away. While I continue fighting to stop this bill, these amendments would protect access to health care and food assistance for families nationwide, and I urge my colleagues on the Rules Committee to support them.”

    Pappas’s first amendment would strike new limitations that will severely restrict the amount of funding states can direct toward Medicaid, which creates significant budget gaps for Medicaid and kicks people off their health insurance. This amendment would help providers keep their doors open and protect Granite Staters’ access to care.

    Pappas’s second amendment would strike from the bill provisions that create cost-sharing requirements for states for SNAP, requiring states to cover a portion of SNAP benefits and potentially cut benefits. This amendment would protect Granite Staters’ access to school meals and food assistance and prevent increased costs from being passed on to the state by Congress.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pappas, Goodlander Raise Alarm Over President Trump’s Proposed Cuts to Critical Drug Interdiction Efforts

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chris Pappas (D-NH)

    The Trump Administration’s proposed budget for FY2026 would cut HIDTA funding by $102 million, a cut greater than one-third of the program’s entire budget from FY2025.

    Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) led a group of eight of his colleagues, including Congresswoman Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), in calling on House leadership to fully fund the High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program following the news that the Trump Administration’s proposed budget for FY2026 would cut HIDTA funding by $102 million, a cut greater than one-third of the program’s entire budget from FY2025.

    There are 33 HIDTAs throughout the country, serving all 50 states. The program provides essential coordination assistance to federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies in critical drug-trafficking regions to reduce drug trafficking. Hillsborough and Rockingham counties in New Hampshire are both part of the New England HIDTA (NEHIDTA).

    In the letter, the members wrote, “These partnerships represent the best of interagency coordination to respond to the most serious drug threats to the region… without full funding, HIDTAs will be unable to complete their mission.”

    In 2024 the HIDTA program seized 4.1 million pounds of fentanyl and other drugs and disrupted or dismantled 3,209 drug trafficking or money laundering organizations, stopping traffickers from making an estimated $17.7 billion in illicit profits. For every dollar invested in the HIDTA program, taxpayers receive a $68.07 return on investment, showing that HIDTA is not only a critically important component of America’s drug interdiction efforts but also an effective and efficient use of funding.

    They also highlighted the concerns of local communities and law enforcement, writing, “Local partners have also raised their concerns. The Administration’s request to cut HIDTA funding by $102 million dollars has also received 67 letters of opposition and counting from police departments, sheriffs’ associations, police chiefs’ associations, associations of narcotics enforcers, and non-profits. We urge you to heed our collective call and ensure that HIDTAs receive the full funding and structural support needed to protect our communities.”

    Read the full letter here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pappas, Shaheen, Hassan Deliver Remarks and Congratulate New Citizens at U.S. Naturalization Ceremony

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chris Pappas (D-NH)

    Today Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), Senator Jeanne Shaheen (NH), and Senator Maggie Hassan (NH) attended and delivered remarks congratulating new citizens from over 40 different countries at a U.S. Naturalization ceremony at the Strawbery Banke Museum. Photos from today’s event can be found here.

    “At today’s naturalization ceremony we welcomed our newest American citizens and reflected on the profound impact that immigrants have on New Hampshire and in our country. Immigrants come to work hard and seek freedom, opportunity, and security, and immigration renews the spirit of our nation,” said Congressman Pappas. “I was honored to join these patriotic Americans and congratulate them on taking the oath of citizenship.”

    “At every point in our history, America has been shaped by immigrants from every corner of the world and every sector of society,” said Senator Shaheen. “I was honored to be a part of today’s naturalization ceremony in Portsmouth, and I congratulate each and every new citizen on this momentous event in their lives.”

    “It was a privilege to join today’s naturalization ceremony at Strawbery Banke and to welcome and celebrate America’s newest citizens,” said Senator Hassan. “Ceremonies like the one held today are an opportunity for American citizens, new and old, to recommit ourselves to supporting and defending the ideals of freedom, self-government, and the rule of law as embodied by our Constitution.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pappas Continues to Stand Against Largest Health Care Cut in American History

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chris Pappas (D-NH)

    Legislation takes health care away from 17 million Americans, cuts off food assistance for millions of families, triggers nearly $500 billion in cuts to Medicare, and adds at least $3.5 trillion to the debt.

    Today Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) released the following statement before once again voting against Republicans’ reconciliation bill:

    “I am appalled that despite the immense outcry from our constituents, Republicans are choosing to move forward with this betrayal of American families. One senior in Manchester, Dan, wrote to my office to share how SNAP ensures he can put food on the table for his family, as his fixed income cannot keep up with the cost of his rent. This legislation wouldn’t only put food assistance for his family at risk; it would put Medicare coverage for seniors like him at risk because of how drastically this scheme raises our national debt.”

    “People’s health, their dignity, and their independence and ability to make ends meet are on the line. Sending this bill to the President’s desk would leave millions of Americans without access to affordable health care and unable to put food on the table, all for the sake of tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans. I remain a no on this bill and urge my Republican colleagues to listen to the voices of their constituents and join me in voting down this cruel scheme.”

    The latest available figures indicate this legislation would:

    • Leave 17 million Americans uninsured, including at least 46,388 Granite Staters. The bill cuts more than $1 trillion from Medicaid, Medicare, and the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Combined with the expiring tax credits and the Trump Administration’s sabotage of ACA Marketplaces, the bill leaves a whopping 17 million more Americans uninsured.
    • Trigger $500 billion in cuts to Medicare.Because the bill adds trillions of dollars to the deficit, it triggers a process known as Medicare sequestration, which requires hundreds of billions in automatic payment cuts to Medicare providers and threatens patient access to care.
    • Increase monthly out-of-pocket costs for families and leave more Americans with overwhelming medical debt. The bill increases co-pays for people on Medicaid who make as little as $1,300 a month, forcing them to choose between health care and other basic needs, and cuts retroactive Medicaid coverage, leaving low-income Americans with overwhelming medical debt in times of crisis and hospitals and nursing homes with more uncompensated care. The bill also fails to extend ACA enhanced premium tax credits, which expire at the end of 2025, spiking health insurance premiums for millions of families. 
    • Defund Planned Parenthood, leaving more than 1.1 million women without access to needed care like cancer screenings and birth control. The bill bans Planned Parenthood health centers nationwide from participating in the Medicaid program, which helps people with lower incomes obtain basic reproductive health care such as birth control, cancer screenings, and STI testing and treatment. Without this coverage, patients will lose access to essential care.
    • Kick millions of Americans off SNAP, leaving them unable to put food on the table. Nearly 77,000 Granite Staters enrolled in SNAP would have their benefits put at risk of being cut.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: After Passage of Republicans’ Megabill, NH Delegation Highlights Disastrous Impacts for Granite Staters

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chris Pappas (D-NH)

    Today Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), alongside Senator Jeanne Shaheen (NH), Senator Maggie Hassan (NH), and Congresswoman Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), held a press conference at Waypoint to highlight the harmful impacts of Republicans’ disastrous budget megabill on New Hampshire. Photos from today’s event can be found here.

    The bill will take health care and food assistance away from millions while also ending tax credits that help folks save on their utility bills, all to give tax breaks to billionaires and corporations. More than 46,000 Granite Staters will lose their health care coverage through Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act and thousands are at risk of losing food assistance. It will also raise household energy and health care bills for everyone while adding trillions to the debt, in order to give the top .1% of people an extra $300,000 a year on average.

    “President Trump and Republicans’ so-called ‘Big, Beautiful Bill’ is a betrayal of working families. Hurriedly forced through Congress in the dead of night, this bill rips health care coverage away from millions of Americans, kills programs that are lowering energy costs, and leaves families unable to put food on their table for their children, all to give tax cuts to the ultra-wealthy,” said Congressman Pappas. “This administration and Republicans in Congress have ignored the needs of working families by enacting this cruel bill and starting a trade war that will increase costs. I will continue to stand with New Hampshire families and fight to protect access to health care, defend food assistance, and lower costs.” 

    “At a time when Americans are feeling squeezed by the cost of living thanks to President Trump’s chaotic trade war, we should be doing everything we can to make life more affordable for families,” said Senator Shaheen. “Instead, Republicans passed a ‘Big Beautiful Bill’ that is going to take health care and food assistance away from Granite Staters to give trillions of dollars to corporations and the wealthiest, exploding the deficit in the process. There’s nothing beautiful about making life more expensive for families in order to give more money to billionaires. That’s why we’re going to continue to remind our Republican colleagues every day what their votes mean for the middle class.”

    “Despite bipartisan opposition, Republicans in Congress pushed through an unpopular budget bill that will have devastating impacts on New Hampshire,” said Senator Hassan. “I appreciated hearing directly from leaders at Waypoint about how this bill will affect the ability of Granite Staters to access health care and the ability of providers to deliver care. I know that I, along with Senator Shaheen and Representatives Pappas and Goodlander, will continue to push back against this devastating bill and I encourage Granite Staters to continue to speak out as well about the ways in which this bill harms their communities.”

    “Hardworking families across New Hampshire will pay the price and bear the burdens of the GOP’s big and truly brutal budget bill. The bill adds trillions of dollars to America’s already sky-high debt and rips healthcare away from millions of Americans by making the biggest cuts to healthcare in American history. It kills good-paying jobs and will jack up healthcare costs, energy costs, education costs, and more,” said Congresswoman Goodlander. “At a moment when the cost crisis is standing between hardworking Americans and the American dream, I was a hard no on this bill. I’ll never stop working to prevent its worst provisions from going into effect.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Harlem, Montana, Man Pleads Guilty to Sex Abuse Charges on the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation

    Source: US FBI

    GREAT FALLS – A Harlem man accused of sexual abuse on the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation admitted to charges today, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.

    The defendant, Ross Vincent Dale, 26, pleaded guilty to one count of sexual abuse. Dale faces maximum penalties of life imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and 5 years to a lifetime of supervised release.

    Chief U.S. District Court Judge Brian M. Morris presided and will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing has been set November 5, 2025. Dale was detained pending further proceedings.

    The government alleged in court documents that in January 2022, Jane Doe was taken to Benefis in Great Falls for a sexual assault examination. Doe alleged she was sexually abused by the Ross Dale on New Year’s Eve or in the early morning hours of New Year’s day, 2021-2022.

    Doe lived with her grandmother/guardian at the time. On New Year’s Eve, Doe’s grandmother and aunt traveled to Wolf Point, leaving Doe at the house alone. Dale contacted her on New Year’s Eve and brought alcohol. Doe took a video of herself and Dale drinking. At some point, Doe must have passed out because she woke up in her bed to her headboard banging against the wall. Dale was behind her, vaginally raping her. She tried to remain calm until he finally left the house. She told her grandmother immediately upon her return home from Wolf Point.

    Dale was interviewed. Although he claimed he was not in Harlem but in Billings with his kids on New Year’s Eve, DNA testing resulted in his DNA being found in Doe’s underwear, extracted from semen that was present on Doe’s underwear.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda L. Myers prosecuted the case. The FBI and Fort Belknap Law Enforcement Services conducted the investigation.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Harlem, Montana, Man Pleads Guilty to Sex Abuse Charges on the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation

    Source: US FBI

    GREAT FALLS – A Harlem man accused of sexual abuse on the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation admitted to charges today, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.

    The defendant, Ross Vincent Dale, 26, pleaded guilty to one count of sexual abuse. Dale faces maximum penalties of life imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and 5 years to a lifetime of supervised release.

    Chief U.S. District Court Judge Brian M. Morris presided and will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing has been set November 5, 2025. Dale was detained pending further proceedings.

    The government alleged in court documents that in January 2022, Jane Doe was taken to Benefis in Great Falls for a sexual assault examination. Doe alleged she was sexually abused by the Ross Dale on New Year’s Eve or in the early morning hours of New Year’s day, 2021-2022.

    Doe lived with her grandmother/guardian at the time. On New Year’s Eve, Doe’s grandmother and aunt traveled to Wolf Point, leaving Doe at the house alone. Dale contacted her on New Year’s Eve and brought alcohol. Doe took a video of herself and Dale drinking. At some point, Doe must have passed out because she woke up in her bed to her headboard banging against the wall. Dale was behind her, vaginally raping her. She tried to remain calm until he finally left the house. She told her grandmother immediately upon her return home from Wolf Point.

    Dale was interviewed. Although he claimed he was not in Harlem but in Billings with his kids on New Year’s Eve, DNA testing resulted in his DNA being found in Doe’s underwear, extracted from semen that was present on Doe’s underwear.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda L. Myers prosecuted the case. The FBI and Fort Belknap Law Enforcement Services conducted the investigation.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: New Guidance Launched to ensure protecting World Heritage during the Renewable Energy Transition

    Source: United Nations

    UNESCO has launched the Guidance on Wind and Solar Energy Projects in a World Heritage Context, which is the updated and extended version of an existing online Guidance which was focusing first on wind energy. The new edition continues to offer practical tools and provides advice to align renewable energy development with the protection of World Heritage properties, thus supporting States Parties in their endeavour to combat climate change.

    The online Guidance compiles relevant information both for World Heritage stakeholders and renewable energy project proponents in a user-friendly platform, with emphasis on stakeholder collaboration, intersectoral dialogue, as well as comprehensive impact assessments, and, it aims to foster informed, proactive decision-making. Its ultimate goal is to demonstrate that the majority of wind and solar energy projects are feasible even in a World Heritage context, if planning and implementation is carried out in a way that it ensures the protection and preservation of the Outstanding Universal Value of World Heritage sites.

    Developed with the support of Wallonia (Belgium), the Netherlands, and Switzerland, and co-published with the Advisory Bodies of the World Heritage Committee, the Guidance provides a critical tool to help ensure renewable energy growth does not come at the cost of our shared cultural and natural heritage.

    Explore the Guidance Here

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Panetta Secures New Federal Funding for Monterey Regional Airport Modernization

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif)

    Monterey, CA – United States Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) announced a new $5,353,204 federal grant for the Monterey Regional Airport to continue construction on its new state-of-the-art terminal.  The funding, made possible through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, will support Phase 5 of the terminal replacement project, including the relocation of utilities and the construction of a new public parking lot.

    This latest federal investment builds on Rep. Panetta’s long-term commitment to delivering modern, safe, and sustainable infrastructure to California’s 19th Congressional District, even as federal programs come under increasing threat of cuts or elimination from the Trump Administration.

    “Despite this Administration slashing federal funding for local infrastructure programs, I was able to work and obtain this federal investment for our community,” said Rep. Panetta.  “This new federal funding for Monterey Regional Airport will help it modernize with safer, more efficient, and more sustainable facilities.  I’ll continue my fight to deliver results that improve our economy and enhance the daily lives of those who call California’s 19th Congressional District home.”

    “This funding is a critical component for the circulation in and out of the replacement terminal to ensure the passenger journey remains easy and convenient for both residents and visitors,” said Monterey Regional Airport Interim Executive Director Chris Morello.  “We’d like to thank Representative Panetta for his assistance, means a great deal to the airport to have such strong support in the District and in Washington.”

    This announcement follows Rep. Panetta’s previous efforts to secure over $64 million in federal funding for the Monterey Regional Airport’s modernization, supporting terminal design, tarmac improvements, and other safety upgrades.  Earlier this month, the airport broke ground on the new 62,754 square-foot terminal, set to open in 2027, marking a major milestone in the project’s progression.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: California Members of Congress Urge House Appropriators to Reject Funding Cuts for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif)

    “We urge you to return to topline and project-specific funding levels that can achieve the strong, bipartisan support that USACE funding has historically had.”

    WASHINGTON, DC – A dozen Members of the California Congressional Delegation, including United States Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) sent a letter to House Appropriations Committee calling for the Committee to reject the Trump Administration’s drastic cuts to U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). The President’s budget request for Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) included only $1.56 billion for USACE construction – 53% below the fiscal year 2024 enacted funding level – and excluded vital flood prevention projects in California. This funding request is seriously insufficient to meet the flood risk management, navigation, ecosystem restoration, and other needs of communities across the country. 

    Specifically excluded from the Budget request were four California projects which have previously received strong, unambiguous Congressional support. The four projects are: the American River Common Features, Natomas Basin, CA project; the Pajaro River at Watsonville, CA project; the San Joaquin River Basin project; and the West Sacramento, CA project. The FY25 President’s Budget and both the House and Senate draft FY25 appropriations bills all included a total of $126.4 million in construction funding for four projects before the Trump Administration prevented them from receiving any FY25 funding.

    “Each of these projects has already received substantial federal funding to date. Leaving the projects half-finished would not be an efficient use of federal or non-federal resources…These projects are vital to the safety and prosperity of our constituents,” said the Congressmembers.

    Full text of the letter can be found here. Joining Rep. Lofgren in sending the letter were Reps. Josh Harder (CA-09), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Mike Thompson (CA-04), Ami Bera (CA-06), Doris Matsui (CA-07), Derek Tran (CA-45), Mike Levin (CA-49), Nanette Barragan (CA-44), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Ro Khanna (CA-17), and Jared Huffman (CA-02).

    “The Administration’s decision to omit the Pajaro River Flood Risk Management Project from the Army Corps’ work plan not only ignores the bipartisan support behind this project, but also puts lives, homes, and livelihoods in the Pajaro Valley at continued risk,” said Rep. Panetta. “That’s why our delegation is urging Congressional appropriators to reject these devastating cuts and fund the critical, shovel-ready flood protection projects that have already been vetted, authorized, and previously funded. As we’ve done before, we will keep fighting to protect the people and produce of the Pajaro Valley and ensure the federal government lives up to its commitment to our community.”

    “Californians are all too familiar with the devastating consequences of poor flood risk management. In California’s 18th District, the community of Pajaro has suffered significant damage and loss of life due to flooding for decades. The Pajaro River Project is vital for the area’s safety and livelihood, and I will continue to fight to ensure it receives funding until its completion,” said Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren, Chair of the California Democratic Congressional Delegation.

    “Yanking flood protection funding at the last-minute makes no sense and puts our Valley communities at risk,” said Rep. Harder. “We face flood threats every year because of aging infrastructure and we worked across the aisle to finally get the flood protection we need. Now, Washington is trying to steal back funding for our levees, and I refuse to let them get away with it.” 

    “It’s outrageous that the President is suggesting reducing Army Corps construction funding by 53 percent. The projects he proposes defunding include essential plans in California to repair and reconstruct levees and build and strengthen flood protection infrastructure. These projects have bipartisan support because our community knows too well the devastation from floods and other natural disasters. I urge our leaders on the Appropriations Committee to ensure that California’s Army Corps projects are fully funded in 2026,” said Congressman Mike Thompson. 

    “Sacramento County is one of the most at-risk areas in the nation for catastrophic flooding. In recent decades, we’ve seen firsthand how high-water events threaten our neighborhoods, small businesses, and critical infrastructure. The American River Common Features project in the Natomas Basin plays a vital role in strengthening levees to modern standards and ensuring that our region is better prepared for the future. Leaving this project unfunded not only puts Sacramento families in harm’s way—it risks wasting the significant progress and investments already made. We must keep our commitment to public safety by continuing to partner with the Army Corps of Engineers and fully funding these vital projects,” said Congressman Ami Bera. 

    “When it comes to the safety of our communities, politics needs to be put aside to build life-saving infrastructure improvements. That is how it has always been – and that is how it should stay,” said Congresswoman Matsui. “In Sacramento, we’ve long worked with the Army Corps—regardless of who is in the White House—to reduce flood risk and save lives. These partnerships have transformed our region’s outlook on disaster preparedness. That’s why I’ll keep fighting to restore funding for the Natomas Basin and West Sacramento projects that are critical to the future of the region.”  

    “The Trump Administration’s proposed cuts to the USACE will devastate communities across Orange and LA Counties that are still recovering from disastrous fires,” said Representative Tran. “Infrastructure capable of withstanding increased rainfall and flooding throughout California is essential to keeping our communities safe. I urge my colleagues to reject these drastic cuts and protect our neighbors from the impacts of serious flooding.” 

    “The President’s attempt to cut funding for critical infrastructure projects in California threatens our work to reduce flood risk, restore ecosystems, and support public safety on life support,” said Rep. Mike Levin. “Since entering Congress in 2019, I’ve fought to provide the Army Corps with the resources it needs to ensure our communities are safe and resilient, including funding to combat coastal erosion. As a member of the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to fight for necessary resources for California and push back against any attempts to play politics with vital infrastructure investments.” 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Lofgren and Barragán Lead Democrats’ Response to Rep. Kim’s Distorted, Partisan Resolution Regarding Trump’s Authoritarian Response to the LA Protests

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Zoe Lofgren (D-San Jose)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Representatives Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), Chair of the California Democratic Congressional Delegation, and Nanette Barragán (CA-44) led Democrats in introducing a resolution to condemn Donald Trump’s deployment of the National Guard and Marines during the LA protests, while reaffirming support for state and local law enforcement and the people’s First Amendment right to peacefully protest. This resolution provides a fact-based response to Representative Young Kim’s distorted, partisan, and misleading resolution that House Republican leadership will have the House vote on later this week. 

    Rather than working on a bipartisan basis to condemn violence, defend the peaceful expression of First Amendment rights, and thank members of law enforcement, Rep. Kim’s resolution instead falsely claims that violence was widespread across LA and that California’s leadership has “prioritized protecting illegal immigrants and violent individuals over United States citizens” among other highly partisan claims. 

    In contrast, the Barragán-Lofgren resolution accurately notes that violence in LA was limited and under control by local and state law enforcement. When communities exercised their First Amendment right to assemble and protest U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids, President Trump wrongfully deployed the National Guard and active-duty members of the U.S. Marine Corps in violation of the Posse Comitatus Act and without the consent of California Governor Gavin Newsom or local officials. Democrats’ resolution commends the state and local law enforcement officers who have worked to protect public safety and maintain peace, supports Americans’ right to protest peacefully, condemns acts of violence, and supports the military servicemembers in the Marines and National Guard while objecting to their current deployment to Los Angeles County. 

    “Rep. Kim’s resolution regarding the L.A. protests is not just misguided, inaccurate, and disingenuous: it’s dangerous,” said Rep. Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), Chair of the California Democratic Congressional Delegation. “President Trump’s deployment of Marines and the National Guard in response to largely peaceful protests was unprecedented and wrong. Trump’s refusal to coordinate with state and local officials in deploying active-duty troops also put both protestors and state and local law enforcement officers at risk. House Republicans should be conducting vigorous oversight of the shocking deployment of servicemembers – a blatant attempt to take over states’ law enforcement responsibility – not reflexively jumping to providing justification for Trump to send troops into other communities or defending his dangerous attempt to squash constitutionally-protected dissent.”

    “Our communities have been terrorized by Donald Trump and Stephen Miller’s indiscriminate mass deportation ICE operations — in response, people spoke up and protested to express their fear, anger, and anxiety,” said Rep. Nanette Barragán. “State and local law enforcement had the situation under control and the Trump Administration intentionally escalated the situation when they deployed troops into Los Angeles. Our resolution makes clear that we will not stand by while the federal government tries to intimidate Californians into silence through a show of military force. We must protect the right to protest, condemn violence, and reject authoritarian tactics that have no place in America.”

    “Communities throughout California have been upended by ICE raids where masked ICE agents are using excessive force to go after people without probable cause. People want safer communities, not to see elementary school students and sick people at hospitals deported without due process. Instead of deescalating violence, Trump has fomented it. By deploying Marines and the National Guard against protestors in LA, Trump exacerbated a situation that local officials had under control. The resolution introduced by Rep. Kim does not accurately state the facts of the situation and instead falsely lays blame on Californians for Trump’s escalatory actions. By introducing a resolution with the correct facts, Democrats are standing up for Californians, including our law enforcement officials, who have been repeatedly demonized by partisan hacks looking to score cheap political points,” said Rep. Lieu. 

    “There was only one reason Trump deployed the National Guard and Marines in Los Angeles: to launch his pathetic, made-for-TV reality show to justify his authoritarian crackdowns and cruel ICE raids,” said Rep. Kamalger-Dove. “But Angelenos know our city is not on fire.  We see right through the reality TV president’s theatrics that are meant to distract from this Administration’s tanking of our economy, devastating cuts to Medicaid, and the brutality and inhumanity of its mass deportations. If you pan away from the set, you won’t see Trump’s toy soldiers or violence, but real people hurting from his policies. Let’s focus the camera back on that.”

    “The Trump Administration is using our military service members as political pawns to create a false narrative of uncontrolled violence, trample on legal precedent, and perpetuate fear and hate in our communities,” said Rep. Cisneros. “Last week, I led a letter with over 34 of my colleagues demanding that the President withdraw troops from L.A. and allow our local officials and law enforcement to do their jobs.  I’m proud to join California Democrats in demanding answers from the Administration.”

    “As a proud born-and-raised Angeleno, Los Angeles will always be home. The Republican resolution we are voting on this week is a distorted and inaccurate attack on Los Angeles and our great state,” said Congresswoman Luz Rivas. “I thank Representatives Barragan and Lofgren for leading our California colleagues in introducing this resolution that reaffirms our support for peaceful protest and condemns President Trump’s mobilization of the National Guard and Marines on American soil. The President’s unprovoked and politically-motivated escalation of our military sowed more chaos and harm across our communities. My California House Democratic Caucus colleagues will continue to support the Constitutional right to peacefully protest the Trump Administration’s heartless immigration agenda while also swiftly condemning any acts of violence. Our Republican colleagues – especially our California Republican colleagues – need to do the same.”

    “Trump’s deployment of Marines to Los Angeles was a dangerous overreach that bypassed both state and local authority. We all condemn violence. Californians have a right to protest peacefully — and the Governor’s office assured me that local law enforcement had the capacity to get the situation under control,” said Congresswoman Laura Friedman (CA-30). “The Republican resolution isn’t about safety — it’s political theater aimed at stripping Americans of their rights. Instead of targeting violent criminals, Trump is going after hardworking community members and using military force to intimidate dissent. Our resolution makes clear: we won’t let fear or federal overreach silence Californians exercising their constitutional rights.”

    “This week, Republicans are forcing a vote on a partisan resolution to legitimize Trump’s unacceptable attacks on our community in Los Angeles and to excuse his warrantless mass ICE raids, his takeover of our National Guard, and his deployment of U.S. Marines on the streets of Southern California. This is just wrong. I’m proud to instead join my California Democratic colleagues in introducing this resolution to stand up to Trump’s attacks on California, defend our constitutional rights to due process and free expression, and thank the state and local law enforcement officers who have worked to protect public safety and prosecute those committing acts of violence and vandalism,” said Rep. Chu.

    The resolution is cosponsored by: Reps. Aguilar, Bera, Brownley, Bynum, Carbajal, T. Carter, Chu, Cisneros, Correa, Costa, Dean, DelBene, DeSaulnier, Doggett, Espaillat, Friedman, Garamendi, R. Garcia, S. Garcia, J. Gomez, Gray, J. Hayes, Huffman, Ivey, Jacobs, Hank Johnson, Kamlager-Dove, T. Kennedy, Khanna, Landsman, Larsen, Latimer, Leger Fernandez, Levin, Liccardo, Lieu, Lofgren, Matsui, McCollum, Min, Morelle, Mullin, Panetta, Pelosi, Peters, Pettersen, Rivas, Ross, Ruiz, Salinas, L. Sanchez, Sherman, Simon, Swalwell, Takano, Thanedar, Thompson, N. Torres, Tran, Vargas, Waters, Whitesides. 

    The text of the resolution can be found HERE. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Khanna, Progressive Caucus Demand Congress Reclaim Its Power: Pass the Iran War Powers Resolution Now

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Rep Ro Khanna (CA-17)

    Washington, D.C. — On Wednesday, June 25th, Representative Ro Khanna and  members of the Congressional Progressive Caucus joined anti-war civil society leaders to call on Congress to pass Rep. Khanna’s bipartisan War Powers Resolution to prohibit United States Armed Forces from unauthorized hostilities in Iran.  

    There are currently 73 members signed onto the resolution. The text can be found here. 

    Following the press conference, Rep. Khanna delivered a floor speech calling for the U.S. to “invest in good jobs at home, not billions in more missiles that we cannot afford.”

    “Americans do not want another costly and disastrous war in the Middle East. They want peace abroad and good-paying jobs at home,” said Rep. Ro Khanna (CA-17). “I am standing with my Progressive Caucus colleagues today to say no to more endless wars and to urge Congress to pass my bipartisan War Powers Resolution to reassert that any military action against Iran must be authorized by Congress.”

    “Donald Trump cannot drag America into another endless foreign war. The House should vote this week on a War Powers Resolution,” said Progressive Caucus Chair Greg Casar (TX-35).

    “Donald Trump said he was going to be the president of peace that got America out of foreign wars. He then unconstitutionally struck Iran without Congressional approval, even though Iran posed no imminent threat to the United States,” said Chair Emerita Rep. Pramila Jayapal (WA-07). “This is not our war to fight. Congress must vote on our War Powers Resolution to preserve our authority and stop’s President Trump’s illegal acts.” 

    “Trump claims to be ‘pro-peace’, yet he’s dragging us into another destructive, unpopular, and expensive forever war without Congressional approval,” said Rep. Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04). “The War Powers Act exists exactly for situations like these—to prevent Presidents from pursuing reckless, ego-driven military actions. Only Congress can authorize war—and frankly, in this case, we shouldn’t.”

    “President Trump sending U.S. troops to bomb Iran without the consent of Congress is a blatant violation of our Constitution,” said Rep. Rashida Tlaib (MI-12). “The American people do not want another forever war. We have seen where decades of endless war in the Middle East gets us—all based on the lie of ‘weapons of mass destruction.’ We are not falling for it again.” 

    “The American people do not want to be dragged into yet another war. As Members of Congress, it’s our job to make their voices heard—and our constitutional obligation to debate and vote on going to war,” said Rep. Jim McGovern (MA-02). I pray that the ceasefire between Israel and Iran holds. U.S. military involvement should never have happened absent Congressional approval. That’s why I support the War Powers Resolution led by Representatives Massie and Khanna and why I encourage all of my colleagues in Congress to do the same.”

    “Time and again, Trump has exercised executive overreach—from mass firings to deporting citizens, and most recently, to dropping bombs on Iran without congressional authorization,” said Rep. Summer Lee (PA-12).“This resolution is about reining in a wannabe dictator who continues to bypass Congress and risk the lives of the American people who are tired of sending their babies and spouses abroad into endless war. I am proud to be a co-sponsor and oppose this descent into fascism.”  

    “If you want to send our children to war, you better come to Congress first,” said Rep. Val Hoyle (OR-04). “The Constitution is clear—that’s our call, not the President’s. I represent a working-class district, and no one back home is asking for another war. They’re asking for us to lower costs on rent, groceries, and healthcare—not to be used as cannon fodder in someone else’s fight. I will keep fighting for them.”

    “Four days later, we haven’t received a Congressional briefing scheduled on the president’s decision to unilaterally engage in an act of war. The facts about the impacts of the strike and Iran’s remaining nuclear capability are unclear. This is unacceptable,” said Rep. Debbie Dingell (MI-06). “Congress has a constitutional role in our national security and we need the facts. We all want stability in the Middle East. We must work toward peace, not get drawn into another extended war.”

    “It has only been a dozen years since nearly 100 Republican colleagues demanded that President Obama seek Congressional approval for his proposed attack against Syria,” said Rep. Lloyd Doggett (TX-37). “Today, it appears most have ignored their own warning about the constitutional duty to consult and receive approval from Congress before engaging in an act of war. With the evidence coming forth that Trump misled the world on his claims of a ‘spectacular success,’ all that’s been obliterated is the credibility of Republicans who are displaying contradictions as big as the President’s. Our democracy is endangered more and more by the contradictions of both Trump and his enablers.”

    “President Trump’s attack on Iran without authorization from Congress was illegal, threatens to destabilize the entire region, and makes Americans less safe. I stand with my CPC colleagues in supporting this resolution to reinforce the constitutionally-mandated separation of powers, and urging the President to return to a strategy of diplomacy that was successful under President Obama in preventing Iran from developing a nuclear weapon,” said Rep. Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10).

    “Regardless of our political party, we should all be clear that the power to declare war does not belong in the hands of the President. When unaccountable, extremist leaders seek to profit from endless wars and human suffering, we as Congressmembers have the obligation to affirm the Constitution and exert oversight,” said Congresswoman Delia Ramirez (IL-03). “It’s why I joined my colleagues to cosponsor the War Powers Resolution.”

    “President Trump’s unilateral and unauthorized decision to conduct military strikes against Iran shows how he continues to put his own ego above the safety of our country. The Constitution gives Congress the sole power to declare war. Trump’s reckless strike violates the clear intent of our Founders, that Congress, not a king-like executive, should decide when our nation goes to war. I’m proud to stand with my colleagues to reassert the constitutional power of Congress,” said Rep. John Garamendi (CA-08). 

    “Donald Trump created this mess when he walked away from the Iran deal, and now he’s trying to bomb his way out of it. It didn’t work – we know we don’t have inspectors that can access Iran’s nuclear sites or information about where crucial stockpiles are,” said Sara Haghdoosti, Executive Director of Win Without War. “We are so grateful to Ro Khanna and all the members who have supported his resolution to ensure that Donald Trump cannot take such reckless action that puts so many lives at risk again. We thank them for showing what it means to take a pledge to the Constitution of the United States and not to a wannabe king. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: RELEASE: REP. RO KHANNA CALLS FOR CONGRESS TO CONVENE AND HAVE A VOTE MONDAY ON THE BIPARITSAN WAR POWERS RESOLUTION

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Rep Ro Khanna (CA-17)

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    June 21, 2025 

    Contact: 

       Sarah Drory (Khanna), (202) 746-8361

    Washington, DC – Representative Ro Khanna released the following statement after President Donald Trump announced U.S. strikes in Iran: 

    “Stopping Iran from having a nuclear bomb is a top priority, but dragging the U.S. into another Middle East war is not the solution. Trump’s strikes are unconstitutional and put Americans, especially our troops, at risk. Congress needs to come back to DC immediately to vote on Rep. Thomas Massie and my bipartisan War Powers Resolution to ensure there is no further conflict and escalation. President Obama’s JCPOA limited enrichment to 3.67 percent and only in Natanz. After Trump ripped it up, we had 60 percent enrichment in Fordo. Americans want diplomacy, not more costly wars. We need to deescalate and pursue a path of peace,” said Rep. Ro Khanna.  

    Rep. Khanna and Massie’s bipartisan War Powers Resolution has 47 cosponsors: Alexandria Ocasio Cortez, Val Hoyle, Rashida Talib, Pramila Jayapal, Don Beyer, Lloyd Doggett, Greg Casar, Ayanna Pressley, Delia Ramirez, Summer Lee, Ilhan Omar, Chuy Garcia, Nydia Velazquez,  James McGovern, Chellie Pingree, Mark Pocan, Veronica Escobar, Paul Tonko, Becca Balint, Bonnie Watson Coleman, Hank Johnson, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Sara Jacobs, Jan Schakowsky, Lateefah Simon, Chris Deluzio, Gwen Moore, Mike Thompson, Yasmin Ansari, Bennie Thompson, Luis Correa, Betty McCollum, Marcy Kaptur, Mark DeSaulnier, Stephen Lynch, Andre Carson, Mary Gay Scanlon, Joaquin Castro, Maxwell Frost, Al Green, Debbie Dingell, Jamie Raskin, Melanie Stansbury, Sylvia Garcia, Leger Fernande, Diana DeGette. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Khanna, Massie, Introduce Bipartisan War Powers Resolution to Prohibit Involvement in Iran

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Rep Ro Khanna (CA-17)

    Washington, D.C.–– Rep. Ro Khanna (CA-17), the Ranking Member on the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Cyber, Innovative Technologies and Information Systems (CITI), announces that he has introduced a bipartisan War Powers Resolution to prohibit “United States Armed Forces from unauthorized hostilities in the Islamic Republic of Iran.” War Powers Resolutions are privileged in the House of Representatives and can be called up for debate and a floor vote after 15 calendar days without action in committee.                                                                                                                                                       

    Rep. Khanna joins Rep. Massie as co-lead of the Iran War Powers Resolution. 

    “No president should be able to bypass Congress’s constitutional authority over matters of war. The American people do not want to be dragged into another disastrous conflict in the Middle East. I’m proud to lead this bipartisan War Powers Resolution with Rep. Massie to reassert that any military action against Iran must be authorized by Congress,” said Rep. Khanna.

    “The Constitution does not permit the executive branch to unilaterally commit an act of war against a sovereign nation that hasn’t attacked the United States,” said Rep. Massie. “Congress has the sole power to declare war against Iran. The ongoing war between Israel and Iran is not our war. Even if it were, Congress must decide such matters according to our Constitution.”

    In addition to Reps. Khanna and Massie, original cosponsors include Rep. Don Beyer (D-VA), Rep. Gregorio Casar (D-TX), Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), Rep. Lloyd Doggett (D-TX), Rep. Chuy Garcia (D-IL), Rep. Val Hoyle (D-OR), Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-WA), Rep. Summer Lee (D-PA), Rep. Jim McGovern (D-MA), Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN), Rep. Ayanna Presley (D-MA), Rep. Delia Ramirez (D-IL), Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), and Rep. Nydia Velazquez (D-NY). Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) has introduced companion legislation in the United States Senate. 

    The text of the Khanna-Massie Iran War Powers Resolution is available here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Swalwell Statement on the Israel-Iran Conflict

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Eric Swalwell (CA-15)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Eric Swalwell (CA-14) issued the following statement on the Israel-Iran conflict:

    “I am closely monitoring the unfolding crisis in the Middle East following Israel’s operation targeting Iran’s military and nuclear infrastructure — and Iran’s subsequent response. This is a deeply volatile moment. I am gravely concerned about the potential for escalation into a broader regional conflict.

    Iran’s repressive regime continues to pose a grave threat to global security — sponsoring terrorism throughout the region, violently suppressing its own people, and targeting Americans. Iran must never be allowed to obtain a nuclear weapon. Preventing that outcome is a matter of America’s national security.

    I want to be clear: the Iranian people are not our enemy. They are victims of an oppressive regime. Like all people, they deserve dignity, peace, and the opportunity to live free from fear, violence, and repression.

    Clearly, Israel has the right to defend itself against existential threats. It is also clear that we need strong, principled American leadership that ensures Iran never acquires a nuclear weapon, while simultaneously working to de-escalate tensions, avoid regional war, and chart a path forward through diplomacy, stability, and lasting security.

    I will continue to engage directly with my constituents — including the vibrant and diverse Muslim and Jewish communities in the East Bay — as we confront these difficult issues together. My priority remains the safety and security of all people, and our shared hope for peace.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. McClintock Remarks on the Big Beautiful Bill: Lower Taxes, Lighter Regulations, a Secure Border, More Frugal Government and a War on Waste

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Tom McClintock Representing the 4th District of California

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Rep. Tom McClintock delivered remarks on the House Floor preceding the final vote on the Big Beautiful Bill:

    Click to watch Rep. McClintock’s remarks

    Big Beautiful Bill
    Senate Amendments
    July 3, 2025

    This bill fulfills many of our promises to the American people: lower taxes, lighter regulations, a secure border, more frugal government and a war on waste.  Throughout history, these are the policies that have produced prosperity and security and there is every reason to believe they will again.  

    I remind my conservative friends who say this bill doesn’t go far enough: our process was not designed to make perfect law – it was designed to make the best law that is acceptable to a majority.  Judging by the narrow votes, we have pushed this bill about as far toward perfection as the process allows.

    The proof is not in the talking points made today, but next year, when Americans will ask themselves if they are better off.  I believe because of this bill, the answer will be a resounding YES.  And perhaps that is what the Democrats fear most.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: A Founding Father’s Words Ring True

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR-04)

    From sea to shining sea, millions are taking this week to celebrate America the Beautiful and the opportunity and hope she has brought to her people for 249 years. We also celebrate the historic signing of the Declaration of Independence, our nation’s founding document, which laid the blueprint for the freedoms we enjoy today. Thomas Jefferson, one of the document’s most famous authors, said, “I am well aware of the toil and blood and treasure it will cost us to maintain this declaration, and support and defend these states. Yet through all the gloom I see the rays of ravishing light and glory. I can see that the end is worth all the means. This is our day of deliverance.” His words still ring true today.

    After months of hard work, bicameral conversations, and late nights in committee markups, our nation has another historic moment to celebrate. House and Senate Republicans passed a once-in-a-generation piece of legislation, delivering on the mandate handed to each member of Congress who was elected in November. Over the past several months, House Republicans have worked tirelessly to put pen to paper in order to craft legislation that delivers on the promises the President and House Republicans made to the American people. 

    This monumental bill takes a step toward restoring fiscal sanity in federal spending, empowering American taxpayers instead of expanding bureaucracy, and fueling freedom from foreign adversaries through unleashing American energy; creating greater domestic opportunity which the abundant natural resources in our own backyard provide. As a proud Arkansan and American, it was a great privilege to have the opportunity to not only cast my vote for a better America, but to cast my vote in order to ensure prosperity, certainty, and hope for Arkansans throughout the Fourth District.

    By curbing wasteful spending, House Republicans have ensured that vulnerable Americans will be able to receive the help they need, while stewarding taxpayer-funded programs responsibly. By creating greater fiscal sanity, House Republicans are delivering the largest tax break to working and middle-class Americans in our nation’s history. By bolstering our border security, House Republicans are keeping communities safe and fighting back against the war on deadly and illicit drugs like fentanyl. And by unleashing America’s energy potential, House Republicans are delivering results to lower costs at the gas pump, creating more jobs in the energy sector, and decreasing American dependence on adverse nations for critical minerals and rare earth elements.

    Thomas Jefferson was right when he said that our founding ideals would take continuous work to protect and preserve. We must never sit idle, for even one moment, and expect that the work we have done is enough to maintain our liberties. For 249 years, our nation’s legislators have fought to continue paving the way for future generations. This week was no different, as the 119th Congress upheld that legacy and delivered the promise of a better tomorrow for the American people. There is no greater honor or anything I take more seriously than representing the people of the Fourth District of Arkansas. The rural communities, farming families, and workers who span across this great congressional district are a top priority every day. I am thankful for the opportunity to bring their voices with me to Washington in order to craft legislation and cast votes to empower every Arkansan with opportunity and security.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Supporting our Servicemembers and Bolstering Military Infrastructure

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR-04)

    Americans work hard to earn a living, and it is Congress’ duty to safeguard those resources through setting guidelines for spending, taxes, and planning each fiscal year’s federal budget. Throughout appropriations season, the twelve subcommittees on the House Appropriations Committee hold hearings to examine the budget requests and needs for federal spending in the upcoming fiscal year. Once these subcommittees pass their own crafted legislation, it heads to the House Floor for a vote. This week, the House voted for and passed the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act (MilCon-VA), 2026. 

    House Republicans are committed to introducing and voting on numerous pieces of legislation throughout the year to support our service members. The MilCon-VA appropriations bill is no different. This vital piece of legislation supports our veterans, active-duty members, and their families to provide them with the resources and support they need, while also bolstering our national security and readiness capabilities at military facilities at home and abroad.

    Our military heroes stand sentinel at freedom’s gate – sacrificing the comfort of their own homes, time with their family, and even their lives to protect our homeland. The men and women who boldly embraced the call of duty, knowingly heading straight toward conflict instead of shying away from it, are always deserving of our thanks and gratitude. Even now, thousands of active-duty service members are deployed across the globe. Regardless of their circumstances, these service men and women stay the course, remain steadfast, and do their duty to serve their country – no matter the cost. Providing them with the funds they need for better resources and support is a small way for Congress to pay its thanks for their service.

    Providing our armed services with resources to develop and modernize integral military infrastructure and readiness is vital to ensure that our nation can proudly boast the most powerful military in the world. This piece of legislation prioritizes robust funding for infrastructure upgrades, rids obsolete infrastructure currently draining taxpayer dollars, and bolsters infrastructure necessary to support our nation’s advanced weapons systems. Funding will also be provided to enhance the quality of life for our military members currently serving, through planning and designing military housing that addresses barrack deficiencies.

    It is well-known that those who return from the battlefield or retire from active military duties are still paying a weighty price for their service. This is why House Republicans have voted to fully fund veterans’ medical care, benefits, and toxic exposures-related needs for the upcoming fiscal year. Post traumatic stress and substance abuse disorders are common among those who have served in particularly devastating tours of duty and as a result, are in great need for social and emotional support networks within their communities. 

    Affordable housing and a lack of employment opportunities directly impact our veterans’ ability to acquire viable housing, leading to a concerning increase in the national military homelessness crisis. Veterans are faced with countless obstacles in their transition from military life to civilian life, and Congress must do its due diligence to ensure that not a single veteran has to worry about where they will lay their head at night or where they will get their next meal. It is a great honor to vote for a piece of legislation which addresses these very concerns by providing funds for the Bridging Rental Assistance for Veteran Empowerment program, an innovative effort to end veteran homelessness.

    Our military heroes are proud to serve our country, and we must be proud to support them in return. Their bravery and unwavering commitment to our country reflect the highest values of service, and while we may not ever be able to thank them fully for what they have done, we can certainly remain committed to crafting legislation that provides them with the care and service they rightfully deserve.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: A Bicentennial Reflection: Honoring a Charge Worthy to be Remembered

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR-04)

    This week marks the 200th anniversary of the only quote which rests in the House of Representatives, just above the Speaker’s rostrum, serving as a weighty reminder of the significant duties and obligations for every legislator in the House of Representatives. 

    On June 17th, 1825, Daniel Webster was joined by another notable figure honored within the walls of this very same chamber: the Marquis de Lafayette. Webster and Lafayette were both in attendance for a memorial of the Battle of Bunker Hill in which more than 200 surviving Revolutionary War veterans were in attendance. Webster was to deliver the dedication speech and Lafayette was to lay the cornerstone for the monument to memorialize the war. 

    Monuments usually stand to encourage reflections of the past, but Daniel Webster’s speech was a challenge to look toward the future. Mr. Webster’s oration included the quote which now hangs in the House chamber and says, “Let us develop the resources of our land, call forth its powers, build up its institutions, promote all its great interests, and see whether we also in our day and generation may not perform something worthy to be remembered.”

    Looking up at this quote from Daniel Webster perfectly outlines the role each legislator plays in Congress – to develop our nation’s resources and utilize the vast opportunity which they present. As a licensed forester and engineer, and someone who has dedicated a large portion of time to stewarding the resources of our land in a way that can be conserved, honored, and appreciated for generations to come, this call has always made perfect sense. The tireless work done in the House Natural Resources Community proudly embarks on championing these very ideals, and it is a privilege to serve on such an integral committee.

    Upon the founding of our country, our forefathers crafted something so unique and monumental – establishing a way of life which, in that age, the world had never known. And over time, institutions and ideals were established which inspired watchful nations. Our forefathers drafted the blueprint for a modern-day democracy, and every generation since has taken up the mantle to preserve and defend it. While his original audience may have only been a few hundred people on a field in the middle of summer 200 years ago, that number continues to grow with each generation. As his audience now, in 2025, he calls us to promote our nation’s great interests to see whether we – in our day and generation – may do something worthy to be remembered.

    History’s watchful eye is witness to the decisions that are made in the House chamber and the work done in the halls of Congress. The legacy and mission we have inherited as a legislative body remains as true now as it did in Daniel Webster’s time. And we must never lose sight of the call to develop our nation’s resources, build up our great institutions, and make the work we do in our own day and age something worthy of being remembered.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: The Hope of the American Spirit

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR-04)

    There are no words to express the deep and sincere grief that our nation has endured over the last week. Homes uprooted and washed away, property damaged beyond repair, and hearts broken by the grief of the loss of a child or loved one. In the aftermath of the natural disaster which occurred in the Texas Hill Country last week, countless families and communities have experienced a tremendous and unimaginable loss that will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark, and my prayers are most certainly with everyone involved.

    In the shadow of loss and devastation, however, the American spirit remains steadfast. In every chapter of our nation’s darkest moments, there has never been a second of hesitation by our fellow countrymen to provide help. This week the nation has watched as neighbors in Texas have lent a helping hand to clean up homes and provide meals. Surrounding communities and states have dispatched their own volunteers to travel to impacted areas to fill in the gaps. And first responders have run straight toward danger, braving relentless and unforgiving waters to ensure every life can be accounted for and brought home. 

    This week, our own Arkansas National Guard was dispatched, sending twenty-two of our finest guardsmen and women to provide aid in the flood recovery efforts in Texas. Even a week after the tragedy, many families are still holding on to hope that their lost loved ones will be found. Our Arkansas National Guard is proud to answer the call of duty and utilize every resource at their disposal to help bring some relief and hope to these families. In addition to search and rescue efforts, these guardsmen will be utilizing their Black Hawks to transport cargo and passengers. Additionally, they will provide medical assistance during search and rescue efforts by reserving one Black Hawk crew for that role specifically. 

    It’s likely that there is hardly an Arkansan keeping up with the news out of Texas who hasn’t been reminded of the devastating loss our own community experienced fifteen years ago when surging floods swept through the Albert Pike campgrounds on the Little Missouri River. Twenty lives were lost in this tragedy – all folks looking to enjoy some time away in the outdoors, and all who are certainly remembered and missed every day. 

    This week, there has undoubtedly been time to reflect on each life lost – the campers who never went home, the families eagerly anticipating a river trip to celebrate the Fourth of July, and the brave individuals who went into harm’s way to save the lives of others, in turn losing their own. There has also been time to reflect on the resiliency of the American spirit – the neighbors and friends who have dropped everything to volunteer their time and energy to searching and supporting those around them, and moments of sincere gratitude for the first responders who have risked their own safety to be a beacon of hope for the rescued and their families. 

    As this week of solemn reflection ends, may we remember that in the darkness of devastation, we desperately need each other and rely on each other for hope. President Reagan once said, “The spirit of neighbor helping neighbor flows like a deep and mighty river through the history of our Nation. We are proud of our strong and uniquely American tradition of voluntarism. Compassion, vision, and a fundamental sense of decency are the hallmarks of our national character and are reflected in the charitable works of our citizens.” There is certainly no doubt that we have seen this character reflected in every helping hand, phone call, message of encouragement, or donation given by friends, neighbors, and strangers from across the country and around the world. While my heart breaks for everyone impacted by the devastating flooding, it is encouraged by the stories of heroism and hospitality that make me proud to be an Arkansan and an American.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Golden statement on passage of GOP’s partisan reconciliation bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02)

    So-called ‘Big Beautiful Bill’ hurts the working poor and undermines America’s future to pay for tax cuts for the rich

    WASHINGTON — Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) released the following statement after the House GOP gave final passage to H.R. 1, their reconciliation budget bill, in a party-line 218-214 vote.  

    Golden voted against the bill. 

    “This year, we had a real opportunity to pass a budget that put the middle class first. The reality of slim majorities in both chambers of Congress should have created an incentive to work across the aisle. The parties could have worked together to extend middle-class tax cuts without giveaways to corporations and the wealthy. We could have built on the success of $35 insulin and Medicare drug price negotiations to make health care more affordable. We could have reduced the deficit — something both parties agree should be a priority.

    “Instead, from the very beginning, this GOP majority has used a broken, partisan process where the only choices put on the floor seemed to be ‘bad’ or ‘worse.’ 

    “As a result, we have a law that will take health care away from tens of thousands of Mainers, close rural hospitals across the country, and blow up the national debt — all to pay for tax cuts that mostly benefit those at the top. While I am proud to join the entire Maine delegation in voting against this bill, the truth is Mainers will suffer because of this partisan, harmful budget.” 

    Background on H.R. 1, the so-called “Big Beautiful Bill Act”:

    • Lost Coverage, Increased Health Care Costs: The bill cuts Medicaid by $930 billion, and eliminates tax credits that help individuals afford insurance on the ACA marketplace (coverME.gov in Maine). Estimates on the impact on coverage rates vary, but Maine DHHS says as many as 31,000 Mainers will lose MaineCare coverage in the first year. Mainers who buy insurance plans on the marketplace will see premiums rise by $1,280 on average, and tens of thousands are expected to lose coverage in the face of those steep premium increases.
    • Rural Hospitals to Close: Medicaid cuts and other provisions that target support for rural health care will put the squeeze on hospitals in places like Maine, many of which are already facing a budget crisis. One study found that two hospitals in ME-02 — one in Ellsworth and another in Presque Isle — are among the more than 300 rural hospitals nationwide most at risk of closure because of the cuts.
    • A System Rigged for the Top: The bill extends the lopsided tax cuts from the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, among other tax provisions.That includes nearly $1 trillion in tax cuts for the top 1 percent, while cuts for health care and food assistance mean the bottom 20 percent will see their after-tax income decrease.
    • Exploding National Debt: The bill will add up to $3.9 trillion to the debt through Fiscal Year 2034. In 10 years, the bill could see the national debt climb to 130 percent of GDP — a new record high. Payments on the debt are already the third-highest line item in the federal budget, behind only Medicare and Social Security.
    • A Precedent for Dishonest Accounting: The bill uses an accounting trick known as the “current policy baseline” to artificially reduce the legislation’s cost in Congress’ accounting of revenues and expenditures. This never-before used gimmick sets a dangerous precedent by which majority parties can enact costly agendas without a fair and honest accounting of the price. 

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Craig Urges Administration to Follow Through on Promise to Deliver High-Speed Internet to Rural Communities

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Angie Craig (MN-02)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Angie Craig joined Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Rob Wittman (R-VA) and Adam Gray (D-CA) in urging the Administration to follow through on its promise to deliver high-speed internet to rural communities through the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) program. 

    In a letter to Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick, the lawmakers expressed concerns about the National Telecommunications and Information Administration’s (NTIA) recent guidance that could set back broadband deployment in rural areas.

    “We remain committed to ensuring the BEAD Program delivers on its promise to strengthen the U.S. economy and connect rural Americans with the opportunities enabled by high-speed internet,” the Members wrote. “However, recent guidance from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) raises concerns that the program could be slowed just as states are gaining momentum.” 

    “This program was intended to strengthen underserved areas by providing the highest-performance and most scalable networks, so they can compete in the modern economy,” the Members continued. “In many of our districts, higher deployment costs are a reality. A one-size-fits all model puts rural communities at a disadvantage.

    The Members concluded, “We urge NTIA to preserve the program’s original intent while streamlining deployment efforts to avoid further disruptions.”

    As a co-chair of the Congressional Rural Broadband Caucus, Rep. Craig has led the effort to connect Minnesota’s rural communities to high-speed internet. 

    Last Congress, Rep. Craig led a group of Members in urging Speaker Johnson to take action to extend funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which provided 23 million American households – and over 244,000 Minnesota households – with access to affordable high-speed internet. She later introduced the Secure and Affordable Broadband Extension Act to increase funding for federal broadband accessibility programs like the ACP, which expired in June of 2024.

    Last year, she secured a $1 million federal investment to improve internet access in Le Sueur County, Minnesota.

    You can read the full text of the letter here.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Craig, Kean Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Increase Transparency in Congress, Prevent Lawmakers from Profiting from Insider Information

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Angie Craig (MN-02)

    WASHINGTON, DC – As part of her continued efforts to fight corruption and reform Washington, U.S. Representative Angie Craig joined Rep. Tom Kean, Jr. (R-NJ) in introducing the No Shorting America Act to restore transparency to Congress and prevent lawmakers from using insider information to short-sell American companies. 

    Their bipartisan bill would prohibit Members of Congress and their families from profiting off the downfall of American companies, require Members of Congress to report stock investments to the supervising ethics office and prevent conflicts of interest by allowing the Attorney General to impose a fine of up to $50,000 if a Member is found short-selling American companies.

    “Too many Minnesotans don’t trust that their representatives are working for them, and that’s because for too long, Members of Congress have been able to use their positions for personal gain,” said Rep. Craig (MN-02). “Since I was elected to the House of Representatives, I’ve been working to clean up Washington and increase transparency in Congress. I’m proud to be introducing this bipartisan bill with Rep. Kean to hold Members of Congress accountable and ensure they aren’t using insider information to play the stock market.” 

    Since she came to Congress, Rep. Craig has led the charge to fight corruption and restore integrity to Washington, DC. 

    She recently reintroduced her NO STOCK Resolution, which would require Members of Congress to immediately sell their individual stocks and refrain from future stock ownership while in office.

    Earlier this month, Rep. Craig joined her colleagues in introducing the End Corruption Now legislative agenda, which aims to confront political corruption and clean up government by introducing six bills that will put power back in the hands of the American people. These bills will prevent the President, Executive Branch officials, and Members of Congress from personally benefiting from their offices.

    As part of the End Corruption Now agenda, Rep. Craig reintroduced her Restoring Integrity to Democracy Resolution to ban Members of the House from serving on corporate boards while serving in office.

    Earlier this Congress, she reintroduced her Halt Unchecked Member Benefits with Lobbying Elimination (HUMBLE) Act — a broader package of reforms that would ban Members of Congress from owning or trading individual stocks, prohibit the use of taxpayer funds for first-class airline tickets, prevent Members from serving on corporate boards while they are in Congress, eliminate access to Members-only perks for former Members and eliminate automatic pay raises for Members of Congress. Rep. Craig first introduced the HUMBLE Act during her first term in Congress in 2019.

    You can read Rep. Craig’s No Shorting America Act here.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Craig Memorializes Melissa and Mark Hortman in Speech on House Floor

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Angie Craig (MN-02)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Angie Craig took to the House floor to honor the late Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark Hortman, who were killed in Minnesota earlier this month in a politically motivated attack. Rep. Craig remembered the Hortmans as a force for good, who were deeply involved in their community. She also acknowledged State Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette, who nearly lost their lives in the attack. 

    “Anyone who knew Melissa and Mark knew that together, they were a force for good,” Rep. Craig said. “Melissa was a dedicated public servant, and both she and her husband devoted their lives to improving the lives of Minnesotans.”

    Rep. Craig also took the opportunity to condemn the inflammatory political rhetoric that played a role in the attack and encouraged Minnesotans to find common ground with one another. 

    “It is still difficult to comprehend the violent attacks on the Hortmans and Hoffmans, but what I do know is that we got here in part because of the divisive rhetoric that we have allowed to seep into our politics and into our communities,” said Rep. Craig. “It will take our entire community coming together. We must hold ourselves and each other accountable. It’s the only way forward, and it’s how we honor the legacy of Melissa and Mark.”

    You can watch Rep. Craig’s full remarks here.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Craig Votes Against Republicans’ Disastrous Budget Bill That Takes Food and Health Care from Minnesotans and Betrays the Middle Class

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Angie Craig (MN-02)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Angie Craig voted against the Republicans’ catastrophic budget bill that will add trillions to the national debt, take food and health care from hundreds of thousands of Minnesotans and betray the middle class – in order to pay for tax breaks for billionaires.

    As ranking member of the House Committee on Agriculture, Rep. Craig testified before the House Rules Committee for five hours on Tuesday about the negative impacts of the bill on Minnesotans.

    Following her “no” vote on the House floor, Rep. Craig released the following statement:

    “Today, Republicans showed us once again that they are the party of billionaires and wealthy corporations – not everyday Americans. Instead of working to lower costs and reduce the national debt, which they promised to do, my Republican colleagues passed a budget bill that balloons the deficit and takes food and health care from hundreds of thousands of hard-working Minnesotans – all to line the pockets of the ultra-rich. 

    “Taking basic needs away from Minnesota’s kids, seniors, veterans, single mothers and people with disabilities is not an option. So, while the Trump Administration and Republicans in Congress chip away at Minnesotans’ access to critical programs like Medicaid and SNAP, I will keep working with state and local officials to ensure that every Minnesotan is able to get the care they need and put food on the table.”

    The Republicans’ budget cuts nearly $200 billion from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), threatening to impact critical food assistance from 42 million Americans, and cuts $930 billion from Medicaid, which could result in over 173,000 Minnesotans losing access to health care. The non-partisan Congressional Budget Office estimates that the Republicans’ budget bill will increase the deficit by $3.5 trillion over 10 years – or $4 trillion including interest. Shifting the burden of SNAP costs onto states put Minnesota’s counties in the position to raise property taxes to make up for the millions of dollars of an unfunded mandate from the federal government. 

    The bill passed the House with 218 Republican votes and not a single Democratic vote.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: [VIDEO] Rep. Omar Sounds Alarm on Catastrophic Big Ugly Budget Bill on Minnesotans

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

    MINNEAPOLIS– Today, Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) hosted a press conference in Minneapolis to sound the alarm on the catastrophic impacts the Big Ugly budget bill will have on Minnesotans. The Congresswoman was joined by local and state leaders to share the widespread impacts this bill will have across our state. 

    The full video can be found here.

    Full transcript below:

    “I wish we were gathered under different circumstances. 

    “But today, we’re here to speak the truth about the GOP budget bill that will devastate the very people we fight for.

     “The bill Republicans passed is one of the most harmful, immoral budgets we’ve seen in modern American history. 

    “It is a direct assault on working families in Minnesota and across this country. 

    “Let me tell you what this bill does. 

    “It slashes Medicaid, kicking 17 million Americans off their healthcare plans, thousands of whom are in this district. 

    “The bill rips 186 billion dollars from SNAP. 

    “That’s food off the tables of seniors, children, and single moms.

    “People who are already struggling to get by. 

    “Here in the 5th district, nearly 90,000 people rely on SNAP.  

    “I’ve spoken to them and many are now asking how do I feed my kids and still pay bills? 

    “This is the United States of America. 

    “No one should ever have to make that choice.

    “And while families are being told to tighten their belts, billionaires are getting a windfall. 

    “Permanent tax cuts for the rich.  

    “Temporary scraps for everyone else.  

    “This is the largest upward transfer of wealth in our lifetime. 

    “It makes the rich richer and leaves working people behind.

     “Republicans love to call themselves the party of the working class but this bill proves otherwise.  

    “It threatens nearly 2 million construction jobs, including 800,000 green jobs, and could erase 148 billion dollars in wages and benefits. 

    “That’s not a working-class agenda.

    “It also cuts 300 billion dollars in education programs. 

    “It drives up student debt and slams the door shut on millions of young people who simply want a chance at a better future.  

    “This district is home to one of the youngest constituencies in the country, including the University of Minnesota. 

    “This bill tells them you’re on your own.

    “And for what? 

    “To hand over 150 billion dollars to immigration enforcement.  

    “45 billion dollars for ICE jails, more than 13 times their current budget.  

    “We’re already seeing reports of new detention centers like “Alligator Alcatraz” being built in Florida.  

    “We are being told, again and again, that we can’t afford universal healthcare, quality education, or universal school meals. 

    “But somehow, we can always afford another detention center or tax cuts for the rich.

    “The American people do not want this budget.  

    “But Republicans rammed it through anyway in the middle of the night because they know it won’t stand up to public scrutiny.

    “And here’s the kicker, they delayed most of the cuts until 2027.  

    “Why? Because they know just how deeply unpopular this bill is.

    “We’ve seen what happens when the powerful put profits over people. 

    “But we’ve also seen what happens when working people, immigrants, students, parents, and neighbors come together and refuse to be ignored. 

    “That’s the spirit of Minnesota’s Fifth District.

    “We do have people power and we’re going to keep fighting for a country that invests in children, that feeds families, and expands opportunity. 

     

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Omar’s Statement on Voting NO on Final Big Ugly GOP Budget Bill

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

    WASHINGTON—Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) released the following statement after voting “no” on the final version of the GOP budget bill.

    “This bill is one of the most cruel, immoral pieces of legislation that Congress has ever voted on. Not only did this bill get worse from the last time the House voted on it, it will be remembered as one of the most catastrophic bills passed in modern history.

    “Because my Republican colleagues cowered to special interests and their billionaire donors, 17 million Americans will lose their health coverage. This passage could cause 50,000 Americans to die each year because Republicans shamefully voted to kick millions off Medicaid and failed to extend the premium tax credits in the Affordable Care Act. It will also increase healthcare costs and endanger access to care for all Americans. Rural hospitals will be forced to shut down. Nursing homes and community health centers will be gravely impacted.

    “This bill is the biggest transfer of wealth from the poor to the rich in history. While working people will be devastated, billionaires will receive massive tax cuts. Not only are the tax cuts permanent for the ultra-wealthy, any benefit to low-income families is only temporary. It will deepen the wealth and income inequality gap.

    “In poll after poll, the American people are clear in their disdain for this bill. From cuts to nutrition assistance to increasing the cost of college to higher utility bills – the American people are clear-eyed in opposing it. Donald Trump and Republicans know this, which is why they rammed this bill through. Every single American will remember who chose to side with billionaires instead of working people.

    “This bill is morally bankrupt and an attack on working people. For those reasons, I voted NO.”

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Ilhan Omar and Anna Paulina Luna Introduce Syria Sanctions Relief Act to End Broad U.S. Sanctions on Syria

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

    WASHINGTON — Today, Representatives Ilhan Omar (D-MN) and Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL) unveiled the Syria Sanctions Relief Act, bipartisan legislation that would repeal existing sanctions programs for Syria.

    The bill would also strike related statutory references, effectively ending the Congressionally-mandated sweeping sector-wide sanctions that humanitarian organizations, United Nations experts, and economists say have worsened Syria’s economic collapse and left millions unable to rebuild their lives. Since their enactment, these sanctions have blocked access to food, fuel, and medical supplies, with devastating consequences for the Syrian people. 

    “Syria’s remarkable transition, and the end of the decades-long Assad dictatorship, presents new opportunities for engagement for the betterment of the Syrian people. This is the right time to lift sanctions,” said Rep. Ilhan Omar. “This is also a good time to reflect on a broader truth: sanctions should never be used as a blunt instrument to starve a population or collapse an entire economy. They do little to improve human rights or democratic outcomes and instead devastate civilian populations and fuel instability. If we are serious about supporting peace and regional stability, we must end the failed policy of economic warfare. This bill is about giving the post-Assad Syria a fighting chance.

    “The new Syrian government has demonstrated a commitment to religious freedom, peace with our allies, and a strong alliance with the United States,” said Rep. Anna Paulina Luna. “By codifying the lifting of sanctions, we aim to empower Syria’s leadership to rebuild a stable, inclusive society that benefits its people and strengthens U.S. interests. I look forward to meeting the new president of Syria and his wife, and to fostering a continued, robust relationship with the Syrian government to advance mutual prosperity and security.”

    The Syria Sanctions Relief Act would encourage diplomatic and economic engagement and offer Syrians a path toward rebuilding shattered communities. Recent executive actions, including the sanctions relief and Treasury waivers, only provide temporary relief and are subject to future revocation. Only Congress can enact permanent repeal, which is what this bill seeks to do. 

    Full bill text can be found here.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Muslim American Members of Congress Call Out Vile, Anti-Muslim, Racist Attacks on Zohran Mamdani

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Representatives Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), André Carson (IN-07), and Lateefah Simon (CA-12) released the following joint statement:

    “The vile, anti-Muslim, and racist smears from our colleagues on both sides of the aisle attacking Zohran Mamdani cannot be met with silence. 

    “These hateful, Islamophobic, and racist tropes have become so entrenched and normalized in our politics. We know these attacks all too well. At a time of increased violence against elected officials, we cannot allow the attacks on Zohran Mamdani to continue. They directly contribute to the ongoing dehumanization and violence against Muslim Americans. We unequivocally reject the normalization of anti-Muslim hate and fearmongering and call on elected leaders across our country to speak out.”

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