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Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Mental Health Response Change Programme Phase Two update

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Phase Two of the Police Mental Health Response Change Programme is set to be extended with implementation across a third and final group of districts from Monday.

    This includes:

    •        Health NZ districts: Northland, Taranaki, Whanganui, and MidCentral

    •        Police districts: Northland, Central

    •        Health NZ specific areas: Tokoroa and Taumarunui (Waikato), Taupō (Lakes), Wairoa (Hawke’s Bay), and Waitaki and Southern Lakes (Southern)

    •        Police specific areas within districts: Taupo and Tokoroa (Bay of Plenty), Wairoa (Eastern), and Central Lakes and Waitaki (Southern)

    Police Assistant Commissioner Mike Johnson says we remain committed to our joint efforts towards making sure people have access to the right help at the right time, which works best for them.

    “Police have always, and will always, respond when there is an immediate risk to life or safety.  The change is about an increased health-led response, enabling our staff more time to get back into our communities do the work that only Police can.

    Health NZ Director of Specialist Mental Health and Addiction Karla Bergquist says a range of mental health support is available for those who need it.

    “This change is about ensuring people requiring mental health support receive the right care at the right time, while maintaining the safety and wellbeing of patients and our staff.

    “I’d like to assure the public there is a range of services to help people in mental distress or those who are concerned about the mental health of whānau.

    “If a person is in serious mental distress or crisis, support is available from their local crisis team. If it’s a life-threatening situation or someone is in immediate danger of harming themselves or others, contact emergency services on 111.”

    Karla added, “I’d like to acknowledge all our teams for their work to prepare for and implement these changes across the motu. It has been positive to hear from our districts that there are strong local partnerships between police and health to support Phase Two implementation, which has generally gone well.”

    Notes to media:

    Phase Two of the mental health response changes began on 14 April and have been implemented in stages.

    Phase two changes include:

    60-minute handover of detained persons in EDs – Police who have detained a person under section 109 of the Mental Health Act and transported them for an assessment, or are responding at the request of health staff for an assessment under section 41 or 110c, will remain in the ED for a maximum of one hour before departing – unless there is an immediate risk to life or safety.

    Changes to mental health assessments in custody will ensure people in distress are assessed appropriately, preferably in a health setting. If someone is placed under the Mental Health Act while in a Police custody suite, they will need to be taken to a health facility within 30 minutes.

    NZ Police and Health NZ districts are not the same (Police has 12, Health has 20), so there are some parts of a Police district which are not included in the comparable Health NZ district or vice versa.

    Contact numbers for local crisis teams are available online at: info.health.nz/mental-health/crisis-assessment-teams

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health and Business – Ora Pharm targets growing Europe market for medicinal cannabis in trade mission

    Source: Ora Pharm

    Launches collective solution to meet needs of European customers
    Leading medicinal cannabis company Ora Pharm heads to Europe this week as part of a unique trade mission to promote New Zealand pharmaceutical products based on cannabis in the fast-growing European market.
    “European Cannabis Week is a huge opportunity to showcase New Zealand’s medicinal cannabis industry and promote what we do well,” said Ora Pharm Chief Executive and founder Zoe Reece.
    The NZTE trade mission to European Cannabis Week takes Ora Pharm and other companies to the world’s largest cannabis expo in Berlin and to the Cannabis Europa Conference in London.
    “We want to show the European market that Ora Pharm is uniquely placed to solve the issues it faces from fragmented supply, inconsistent quality and problems reliably meeting demand. What Ora Pharm does is unite our growers under a single export-focused platform, which allows us to coordinate supply and produce high quality pharmaceutical products consistently.”
    Ora Pharm currently contracts about two thirds of the licensed New Zealand cannabis cultivators.
    “Ora Pharm can be a one-stop shop for European customers – we aim to give them confidence that we can provide the quality products they need, tailored to the preferences of their patients, and at scale given our partnership with growers.
    “Complying with regulations is critically important and New Zealand’s regulatory framework is modelled on EU-GMP – the regulatory framework that ensures medicines are safe, effective, and of high quality so that should also help build confidence in our products.”
    Germany is the leading market for medicinal cannabis with forecast growth of over 26% (compound annual growth). In the first nine months of 2024 Germany imported nearly 40 tonnes of medicinal cannabis, and New Zealand made up just 0.6% of that. Demand is also growing strongly in the UK, Switzerland and Poland.
    “Right now, European producers can’t keep up with demand. New Zealand with its enviable reputation for high quality agricultural and horticultural products is well placed to take advantage of that and build a long-term trading relationship.”
    Zoe Reece will be delivering a keynote address at the BvCW Expert Conference in Berlin.
    “This trade mission will position the industry well for future growth. I can’t wait to tell our great medicinal cannabis story.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CFTC Announces Additional Cost Savings From Office Leases

    Source: US Commodity Futures Trading Commission

    WASHINGTON, D.C. —The Commodity Futures Trading Commission is in the process of extending a lease at its current headquarters while buildout continues on its new offices. The one-year extension represents a 4.5 percent reduction in rental expenses, totaling nearly $1 million. This logical and fiscally responsible arrangement allows for staff to continue their work uninterrupted while the new facility is completed, in full compliance with the President’s executive orders, and avoids the excess costs, inefficiencies and inconveniences of moving multiple times. The CFTC has already saved nearly $340,000 by renegotiating its lease at its Chicago branch office.
    The CFTC’s new headquarters in an existing building in Southwest Washington is scheduled to come online in June 2026. The lease at the current headquarters in Northwest Washington expires on September 30, requiring a short-term solution. The CFTC was able to negotiate the one-year extension at the current facility at a meaningfully reduced rate. The lease at the new facility will be significantly reduced from the FY 2025 rate of over $21.37 million to just over $6 million.
    Here are additional details about the extension:
    The extension will not require additional funding from Congress

    The CFTC’s current rent expense is built into the existing budget. 

    Rental and payment line items in the FY 2026 budget request are unchanged from FY 2025 enacted levels.

    The extension is expected to result in savings of 4.5 percent compared with the lease expense in FY 2025.

    The CFTC considered various scenarios and determined that an extension was the most logical, efficient and responsible option. 

    The CFTC partnered with GSA in the search and acquisition process for the new HQ, including regarding contingencies in the event of delays in bringing the new HQ online.  

    While the CFTC has worked with GSA throughout the process, the CFTC negotiated directly with the lessor to extend the lease at the current HQ, as required by statute. This is consistent with decades of historical precedent and practice regarding the CFTC’s independent leasing authority and the terms of an MOU with GSA, which covers leases at new facilities, not existing leases. 

    While the CFTC and GSA had planned to use temporary space from another federal agency that was in GSA’s inventory after the expiration of the CFTC’s HQ lease in September 2025, the agreement for the CFTC’s temporary space was canceled by the other federal agency due to their mission needs. 

    Moving to a temporary space would have also cost millions to move staff and equipment to and from the temporary space as well as the setting up and decommissioning of that space.

    Teleworking during this time is not a viable option 

    The CFTC is committed to complying with President Trump’s return-to-office executive orders, just like other Americans who go to work every day without special treatment. 

    A teleworking posture would still require the CFTC to secure a physical space for its IT infrastructure and other critical services, which would require a lease and two moves, costing millions.

    The CFTC inspector general identified widespread and prolonged telework fraud during the CFTC’s post-COVID fully remote telework period of over four years. This has prompted an ongoing review of CFTC employee compliance with federal government laws and regulations regarding time and attendance to better safeguard American taxpayer dollars from waste and fraud by federal employees who have been collecting pay for time not actually worked. This ongoing review has identified additional instances of telework fraud and misuse of government property and paid official time. CFTC employees are the highest paid in the entire federal government, making nearly $250,000 per year on average.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: NZ has a vast sea territory but lags behind other nations in protecting the ocean

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Conrad Pilditch, Professor of Marine Sciences, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau

    Getty Images

    For the past fortnight, the city of Nice in France has been the global epicentre of ocean science and politics.

    Last week’s One Ocean Science Congress ended with a unanimous call for action to turn around the degradation of the ocean. And this week, the United Nation’s Ocean Conference agenda focused on better protection of marine biodiversity, sustainable fisheries and emissions cuts.

    The message is clear. With only five years to the UN’s 2030 target for its sustainable development goal – to conserve the oceans, seas and marine resources – and the Global Biodiversity Framework requirement to protect 30% of the ocean, we need to make significant progress.

    We all attended last week’s meeting, together with more than 2,000 marine scientists from 120 countries. Here, we reflect on New Zealand’s role and obligations to contribute to these global goals.

    Legal imperatives

    Globally, the ocean is warming and acidifying at accelerating rates. New Zealand’s waters are not immune to this, with more marine heatwaves which further stress our threatened marine biodiversity.

    We depend directly on these ocean ecosystems to provide the air we breathe, moderate the impacts of climate change and feed millions of people.

    New Zealand has significant influence on ocean policy – from Antarctica to the sub-tropical Pacific, and within its sea territory, which is 15 times the size of its landmass and spans 30 degrees of latitude.

    The government is required by law to take action to secure a healthy ocean.

    A recent advisory opinion from the International Tribunal on the Law of the Sea unanimously found that states, including New Zealand, have obligations under international law to reduce the impacts of climate change on marine areas, to apply an ecosystem approach to marine law and policy, reduce pollution and support the restoration of the ocean.

    New Zealand courts have recognised the need to take a precautionary and ecosystem-based approach to marine management, based on science, tikanga and mātauranga Māori. These legal cases are part of a global upswell of strategic environmental and climate litigation.

    If New Zealand does not comply with these marine legal obligations, it may well find itself before the courts, incurring significant legal and reputational costs.

    New Zealand committed to protecting at least 30% of the world’s coastal and marine areas by the end of this decade.
    Getty Images

    International agreements

    In 2022, New Zealand was one of 196 countries that committed to protecting at least 30% of the world’s coastal and marine areas by 2030 under the Global Biodiversity Framework. New Zealand was an enthusiastic supporter, but only 0.4% of its marine territory is fully protected in no-take marine reserves.

    Former prime minister Helen Clark has criticised the current government for lagging behind on marine protection, especially in failing to ban bottom trawling.

    At this week’s UN ocean summit, a further 18 countries have ratified an agreement known as the High Seas Treaty, bringing the total to 50, still short of the 60 nations needed for it to enter into force.

    New Zealand signed this treaty just before the last general election, but is yet to ratify it. Foreign Minister Winston Peters represented New Zealand at the UN ocean conference, but focused mainly on issues in the Pacific.

    Meanwhile, the government announced sweeping changes to the national direction on environmental policy, including reworking the New Zealand Coastal Policy Statement to better enable the use and development of the coastal environment for “priority activities” such as aquaculture, resource extraction, infrastructure and energy.

    Oceanic environmental change is real and accelerating

    Some countries showed that effective leadership can help navigate to a safe future for the oceans. For example, China’s commitment to clean energy has seen carbon dioxide emissions begin to fall for the first time despite higher power consumption.

    At the UN ocean summit, French Polynesia’s president announced his administration would establish one of the world’s largest networks of marine protected areas.

    The cost of inaction far outweighs the economics of the status quo. Ongoing ocean warming is already affecting weather patterns, with more extreme storms.

    It is possible for marine ecosystems to recover quite rapidly if they are protected, at least temporarily. Yet this year, New Zealand’s government found itself in hot water (once again) with both conservationists and Māori for its management of fisheries.

    We argue New Zealand has an opportunity and responsibility to demonstrate it can shift the downward spiral of oceanic degradation.

    The overwhelming message at the half-way point of the UN Ocean Decade is that for marine science to transform the state of our oceans it needs to include Indigenous peoples who have routinely been sidelined from ocean policy discussions despite their longstanding rights and relationships with the ocean.

    New Zealand already has a foundation of transdisciplinary and Indigenous ocean research to develop ocean policies that are fit for local purposes and to answer global calls to action. We have a unique window of opportunity to lead the changes needed.

    Conrad Pilditch currently receives funding from the Department of Conservation and the Ministry for Business, Innovation and Employment.

    Elizabeth Macpherson receives funding from Te Apārangi The Royal Society.

    Karin Bryan receives funding from the Marsden Fund, the Ministry for Business, Innovation and Employment, the George Mason Centre for the Natural Environment and Waikato Regional Council.

    Simon Francis Thrush receives funding from ERC, Ministry for Business, Innovation and Employment and the Auckland Foundation

    Joanne Ellis, Karen Fisher, and Rachael Mortiaux do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. NZ has a vast sea territory but lags behind other nations in protecting the ocean – https://theconversation.com/nz-has-a-vast-sea-territory-but-lags-behind-other-nations-in-protecting-the-ocean-258470

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Two-state solution in the Middle East has been a core US policy for 25 years – is the Trump administration eyeing a change?

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Dan Arbell, Scholar-in-residence at the Center for Israeli Studies, American University

    Mike Huckabee, the U.S. ambassador to Israel, holds a note given to him from President Donald Trump to be placed in the cracks of the Western Wall in the old city of Jerusalem on April 18, 2025. Gil Cohen-Magen/AFP via Getty Images

    For a generation, the promotion of a “two-state solution” to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has been a core pillar of U.S. policy in the Middle East.

    But ahead of a major United Nations conference on how to advance that solution, some are asking if Washington is eyeing a change.

    On June 10, 2025, the U.S. ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, stated in an interview to Bloomberg that he opposes the establishment of a Palestinian state at this time, noting that “unless there are some significant things that happen that change the [Palestinian] culture, there is no room for it.” He added that those changes “are not likely to occur in our lifetime.”

    Asked if the establishment of a Palestinian state is still the goal of U.S. policy, Huckabee replied, “I don’t think so.” He went on to mull the carving out of land from a Muslim-majority country for Palestinians, rather than a future homeland for them coming from the area currently controlled by Israel and the Palestinian Authority in the West Bank.

    The comments by Huckabee, a Donald Trump political appointee and ardent pro-Israel Evangelical Christian, have been interpreted as a signal that the Trump administration is potentially breaking away from long-standing U.S. policy. Adding credence to that view has been the administration’s antipathy toward the U.N. conference on the two-state solution, due to convene in New York from June 17-20.

    As a 25-year veteran of the Israeli Foreign Service who served in the embassy in Washington twice, I know that such a turn in U.S. policy is possible. But it is not without difficulties, as the Trump administration will need to present an alternative plan for resolving the conflict.

    President Trump has recently shown he is prepared to break with long-standing U.S policies, as was the case in his decision to lift sanctions on Syria and meet with the country’s interim president, Ahmed al-Sharaa – to the great surprise of many. But calling it quits on the two-state solution is different – it could lead to the further destabilization of an already unstable region.

    What is the two-state solution?

    For the past quarter-century, U.S. policy – endorsed by Republican and Democratic administrations alike – has advocated for the resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict through the advancement of a two-state solution. In practical terms, this means the establishment of a Palestinian state encompassing the Palestinian people currently living in the occupied West Bank and possibly the Hamas-controlled Gaza Strip, alongside the state of Israel.

    The idea that these two coexisting states could provide a permanent end to the conflict formally came to prominence in June 2002 as part of the Road Map to Peace for the Middle East Conflict announced by U.S. President George W. Bush and adopted by the International Quartet on the Middle East, comprising the U.S., Russia, European Union and the U.N.

    U.S. President George W. Bush, Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon, left, and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in Aqaba, Jordan, in June 2003.
    Hussein Malla/AFP via Getty Images

    U.S. Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama took active steps to advance the two-state solution, including direct involvement in negotiations between Israelis and Palestinians.

    And in his first term, Trump presented his own plan, which he called the “Deal of the Century.” With the subheading “a realistic two-state solution,” it laid out a path to Palestinian statehood if the Palestinians’ political leadership met a set of benchmarks.

    President Joe Biden continuously raised the two-state solution as the most viable way to resolve the conflict – even after the Oct. 7, 2023, attacks by Hamas and the war subsequently launched by Israel in Gaza.

    But for years, international observers have worried about the viability of the two-state solution in the face of opposition from right-wing Israeli governments, continued Israeli settlement activity in the West Bank, and weak and divided Palestinian leadership and polity. Yet the alternatives – including continued Israeli occupation, a one-state solution or a confederation with Jordan – are viewed as less viable options.

    Galvanizing support behind statehood

    For these reasons, the two-state solution remains the most acceptable formula to much of the international community.

    Member states of the European Union, Arab countries, as well as most countries in Asia, Latin America and Africa, have been advocating for decades for the implementation of the two-state solution and have incorporated it into their foreign policies.

    The upcoming U.N. conference in New York, to be chaired by France and Saudi Arabia, intends to underscore the importance of getting to a two-state outcome.

    While there is no real expectation the conference will lead to the establishment of a Palestinian state anytime soon, it aims to galvanize international support for the concept of Palestinian statehood.

    Huckabee’s comments were made in the context of the U.N. conference. And they are of no real surprise: Huckabee’s personal views on the subject are very well known.

    But the former Arkansas governor is now the United States’ representative in Israel, and that gives his words weight.

    Warning or notice of intent?

    While there was wide speculation that the comments reflect a change in U.S. policy, the Trump administration did not rush to endorse them – but nor did it distance itself from Huckabee’s words.

    As the war in Gaza continues, there is a growing realization among leading Republicans as well as mainstream Democrats in the U.S. that talk of advancing the two-state solution is premature if not unrealistic at present, especially taking into account the stern opposition of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s nationalist-religious government.

    But that does not suggest the Trump administration has necessarily steered away from this option for the future.

    Rather, it could be that the U.S. administration has calculated that as it devotes efforts to ending the war in Gaza, at least temporarily, and securing the release of the remaining Israeli hostages being held, talk of a two-state solution now is counterproductive to its efforts.

    And Huckabee’s comments may be aimed more at those delegates shortly arriving in New York for the U.N. summit, serving as a warning rather than a notice of intent.

    In a cable sent from the State Department to U.S. embassies around the world, American diplomats were reportedly asked to discourage countries from participating in the conference – not because the U.S. is “disowning” the two-state solution, but rather because the administration believes the conference may undermine its current efforts.

    The cable stated that the U.S. opposes any steps that unilaterally recognize a Palestinian state, which it feels “adds significant legal and political obstacles to the eventual resolution of the conflict.”

    The wording was not coincidental. U.S. policy has been consistent over the years in stating that any resolution of the conflict should be reached through negotiations between the main parties – the Israeli government and Palestinian representatives – which need to refrain from taking any unilateral steps.

    A man walks in front of a sign with portraits of U.S. President Donald Trump and Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee in central Jerusalem on May 7, 2025.
    Ahmad Gharabli/AFP via Getty Images

    Getting ahead of policy

    Notwithstanding all this, Huckabee’s comments were not made in a vacuum.

    While the U.S. administration has not formally moved away from the two-state formula, there is a growing number of conservatives in Congress, as well as in the Washington think-tank community, that see an opportunity to bring a change in U.S. policy in the aftermath of the Oct. 7 attacks.

    In his first term, Trump was relatively tepid in his approach. So far in his second term, he has given little sign of where he stands on the issue. Huckabee’s comments, in this regard, may have been a subtle nudge – with the ambassador getting ahead of where he hopes policy is heading.

    Dan Arbell does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Two-state solution in the Middle East has been a core US policy for 25 years – is the Trump administration eyeing a change? – https://theconversation.com/two-state-solution-in-the-middle-east-has-been-a-core-us-policy-for-25-years-is-the-trump-administration-eyeing-a-change-258753

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn, Schmitt Announce Whistleblower Hotline for Biden Mental Decline Cover-Up Tips

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn

    Hotline Comes Ahead of Cornyn, Schmitt Co-Chairing Judiciary Committee Hearing on Cover-up

    U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Eric Schmitt (R-MO) today announced a whistleblower hotline for former White House staff and officials to come forward with any information regarding the cover-up of President Biden’s decline or insight into who was running the country while the President was sidelined:

    “I’m looking forward to next week’s hearing to discuss the important constitutional questions raised by the fact that we don’t know whose finger was on the nuclear button and who was responsible for war and peace given President Biden’s obvious cognitive decline,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This hotline provides an open line of communication for anyone who knows the facts about Biden’s mental acuity to come forward so we can once and for all get to the bottom of what may be one of the greatest political scandals in modern history.”

    Background:

    Sen. Cornyn is pushing to get answers on the alleged cover-up of former President Biden’s cognitive decline by the mainstream media, Biden family, and his inner circle, and he recently sent a letter to the Department of Justice calling for an investigation. Sen. Cornyn is co-leading an upcoming Senate Judiciary Committee hearing scheduled for June 18, 2025 alongside Sen. Eric Schmitt (R-MO) to investigate who was running the country during President Joe Biden’s cognitive decline while in office and the mainstream media’s subsequent cover-up.

    If you had interactions with President Biden where mental decline was evident and you wish to confidentially share your story, please contact the whistleblower hotline. To submit a tip, email bidentips@schmitt.senate.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Moore Votes for HALT Fentanyl Act, Bill Headed to President’s Desk

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Riley Moore (WV-02)

    Washington, D.C. – Earlier today, the House of Representatives passed S. 331 – the HALT Fentanyl Act, which permanently classifies fentanyl and fentanyl related substances as Schedule 1 under the Controlled Substances Act. Congressman Riley M. Moore voted “Yes” on the legislation.

    The House had previously passed a similar version of the bill, with Congressman Moore’s support, in February.

    “Fentanyl has claimed thousands of lives in West Virginia, and the crisis continues to present major challenges for officials on the ground,” said Congressman Moore. “The HALT Fentanyl Act will close a deadly loophole in existing law, and in turn, our justice system will be empowered to aggressively prosecute those who are responsible for poisoning our communities. I’m proud to have voted “Yes” today, and will continue to fight for policies that reduce overdose deaths and help those struggling with addiction.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Beyer Statement On Assault On Senator Padilla

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Don Beyer (D-VA)


    Beyer Statement On Assault On Senator Padilla | U.S. Representative Don Beyer

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Torres Amendment to Restore Rape Kits for Civilian Employees Overseas Passes Defense Committee Markup

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Norma Torres (35th District of California)

    June 12, 2025

    Washington, D.C. –  Today Congresswoman Norma Torres announced that her crucial amendment ensuring access to rape kits for civilian Department of Defense (DOD) employees stationed overseas has passed the Fiscal Year 26 Defense Appropriations Committee markup. This bipartisan, commonsense amendment restores medical support rescinded by a controversial March 2025 DOD policy change that stopped providing rape kits to many civilian personnel serving alongside U.S. military forces abroad.

    “Today, we take an important step to guarantee that every American serving overseas, whether in uniform or as a civilian, receives the care and support they deserve,” said Congresswoman Torres. “Our civilian employees—intelligence officers, law enforcement, nurses, teachers, cooks, and more—often serve in dangerous environments alongside our troops. There is no justification for turning our backs on them when they become victims of violent crime.”

    In March 2025, the Department of Defense reversed its policy, discontinuing rape kit services for many civilian employees in conflict zones such as Iraq and Syria. This decision has been met with strong opposition from veterans’ groups and service members who fear the impact on their colleagues and loved ones.

    “This amendment is about a fundamental promise: when Americans serve their country in dangerous places, their country has their back when they need us most,” Congresswoman Torres continued. “What do we tell the young intelligence analyst in Baghdad if she is assaulted and denied the medical care she needs? We can and must do better.”

    The amendment’s passage sends a clear message that America will not abandon those who serve, regardless of their role. It restores critical medical care for civilian personnel, reflecting the nation’s commitment to their safety and dignity.

    Congresswoman Torres urges her colleagues in the House to support the amendment in the full Defense Appropriations bill and reaffirm America’s unwavering support for all who serve overseas.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Torres Demands Accountability from ICE Following Unlawful Denial of Access and Use of Chemical Agents During Congressional Visit

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Norma Torres (35th District of California)

    June 12, 2025

    Calling for Immediate Investigation into ICE’s Actions at Roybal Federal Building and Urges Reform of Detainee Information Systems

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Norma Torres sent a formal letter to Director Todd Lyons of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raising serious concerns about the conduct of ICE personnel during a peaceful Congressional delegation oversight visit to the Roybal Federal Building in Los Angeles on June 7, 2025. The delegation, which included Members of Congress, legal counsel, staff, media, and immigrant rights advocates, was denied access to the facility despite legal protections guaranteeing such oversight.

    In her letter, Rep. Norma Torres highlights ICE’s false claim that over 1,000 protesters were present during the visit, a characterization she says was deliberately used to justify the unwarranted deployment of chemical agents against the peaceful delegation. The release of these agents caused harm to Congresswoman Torres, who required emergency medical attention and ongoing medication.

    Congresswoman Torres also condemns ICE’s unlawful obstruction of Congressional access, citing federal law (Section 527(a) of the Further Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024) that prohibits denial of entry to federal detention facilities by Members of Congress. She calls the refusal a serious breach of transparency and accountability.

    Additionally, the Congresswoman points to ICE’s failure to maintain accurate and timely updates to its Online Detainee Locator database, which has led to widespread confusion and emotional distress among families searching for detained loved ones.

    “Every day we are denied access to critical information, and DHS violates the law, is a danger to our democracy. Today at 3:08 pm, DHS responded to my request to conduct oversight at the Roybal facility by denying oversight access for the second time. As a Member of Congress and part of the Appropriations Committee overseeing federal funding, I demand a full investigation into the use of chemical agents against myself and others present on June 7, 2025, a formal explanation for the unlawful denial of access, and a comprehensive review of ICE’s communication and detainee information systems,” said Congresswoman Torres. “These actions have not only endangered lives but have broken the public’s trust and violated the law.”

    Congresswoman Torres is urging ICE to promptly address these serious issues and provide a detailed response.

    Full letter text

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Search begins for head contractor for Bendigo Art Gallery project

    Source: New South Wales Ministerial News

    The City of Greater Bendigo is seeking a head contractor for its largest-ever construction project, the redevelopment of Bendigo Art Gallery.

    Expressions of interest opened this week for construction companies with the capability to deliver stage one of the project, valued at $45M.

    Stage one will transform the Gallery and deliver a second level blockbuster exhibition space, innovative learning centre, theatrette and Traditional Owner Place of Keeping for Dja Dja Wurrung cultural materials.

    City of Greater Bendigo Chief Executive Officer Andrew Cooney said he expected there would be significant interest from the construction sector to be part of the project.

    “The Gallery redevelopment is a major, city-defining project for Bendigo. It is an investment in arts and culture as well as the economic future of our region, and would be an incredible project for a construction company to have in its portfolio,” Mr Cooney said.

    “An expression of interest process is an opportunity for construction companies to demonstrate their capacity and experience in delivering projects of this scale and complexity. They must also be able to outline how they will utilise the local sub-contractor network and employment of local staff.”

    Gallery Director Jessica Bridgfoot said it would be beneficial for the successful tender to have experience in delivering cultural projects.

    “Our focus is to deliver a world-class gallery experience and contemporary building that cements the Gallery’s reputation as an empowering, inclusive and engaging cultural facility for future generations,” Ms Bridgfoot said.

    “It is a project that incorporates our heritage gallery spaces – Abbott, Drury and Bolton courts – and a key focus of the building’s façade and a critical feature of the redevelopment is honouring the Dja Dja Wurrung Traditional Owners, so it will be important the head contractor understands the vision we have set out for this next chapter in the Gallery’s history.”

    It is expected construction will commence in early in 2026 and take approximately two years to complete.

    Funding partners for the redevelopment include the Victorian Government, City of Greater Bendigo, Bendigo Art Gallery Board and philanthropic donors, including the Sidney Myer Fund and The Ian Potter Foundation.

    The expression of interest process is open until June 30 and available via Vendor Panel or visiting the City’s website.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: STATEMENT: Ontario’s Integrated Energy Plan emphasizes DERs and procurements

    Source: – Press Release/Statement:

    Headline: STATEMENT: Ontario’s Integrated Energy Plan emphasizes DERs and procurements

    Ontario recognizes that onsite solar and storage, plus predictable procurements including wind and solar energy, are key to delivering reliable, affordable power to communities, farmers and businesses.  

    Toronto, June 12, 2025—The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) is encouraged to see Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) and predictable procurement windows emphasized in Ontario’s Integrated Energy Plan (IEP), which was announced in a press conference today by Stephen Lecce, Minister of Energy and Mines, and Sam Oosterhoff, Associate Minister of Energy Intensive Industries.

    According to the Ministry, the IEP, entitled “Energy for Generations,” aims to provide a coordinated, long-term approach to ensure Ontario has the energy it needs to power homes, businesses, and industry with abundant, reliable, clean, and affordable energy supply.

    CanREA worked with the government and its agencies to inform aspects of this plan, contributing our expertise to help shape the DER approach and procurement strategy.

    “The government’s continued commitment to competitive, transparent procurements—reaffirmed in the Integrated Energy Plan (IEP)—will drive low-cost clean energy investments that benefit Ontario ratepayers,” said Vittoria Bellissimo, CanREA’s President and CEO.

    CanREA has long advocated for consistent procurements, with open processes, as the most effective way for investors and developers to successfully build out the new wind, solar and energy storage projects needed to help meet growing demand in Ontario.

    “We are also encouraged that the IEP identifies the critical actions needed to fully leverage the significant potential of distributed energy resources (DERs) that bring energy and resilience to all regions in the province,” said Bellissimo.

    Specifically, the IEP indicates the intention to create a DER stream in the IESO’s Enabling Resources Program and to enable broader opportunities for DERs in IESO procurements and programs. The government also plans to review Ontario’s net metering framework and launch a Local Generation Program to create new pathways for DER providers.

    As a whole, the DER strategy clearly recognizes CanREA’s position that rooftop solar and batteries are ready to play a growing role in delivering reliable, affordable power to Ontario’s communities, farmers and businesses.

    “Going forward, CanREA is ready to help the government and its agencies execute key initiatives from the Integrated Energy Plan, and CanREA members will continue to invest in clean energy projects in this province through Ontario’s upcoming procurements and programs,” said Eric Muller, CanREA’s Ontario Director.

    PHOTO (from left to right): Minister Stephen Lecce (Ontario Minister of Energy and Mines), Leonard Kula (CanREA Vice President of Policy—Eastern Canada and Utility Affairs), Minister Sam Oosterhoff (Associate Minister of Energy Intensive Industries), at the announcement of Ontario’s new Integrated Energy Plan (IEP), “Energy for Generations,” in Toronto on June 12, 2025.

    Quotes

    “The government’s continued commitment to competitive, transparent procurements—reaffirmed in the Integrated Energy Plan (IEP)—will drive low-cost clean energy investments that benefit Ontario ratepayers. We are encouraged that the IEP identifies the critical actions needed to fully leverage the significant potential of distributed energy resources that bring energy and resilience to all regions in the province.”
    —Vittoria Bellissimo, President and CEO, Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA)

    “Going forward, CanREA is ready to help the government and its agencies execute key initiatives from the Integrated Energy Plan, and CanREA members will continue to invest in clean energy projects in this province through Ontario’s upcoming procurements and programs.”
    —Eric Muller, Ontario Director, Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA)

    For media inquiries or interview opportunities, please contact: 

    Communications Canadian Renewable Energy Association communications@renewablesassociation.ca 

    About CanREA 

    The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) is the voice for wind energy, solar energy and energy storage solutions that will power Canada’s energy future. We work to create the conditions for a modern energy system through stakeholder advocacy and public engagement. Our diverse members are uniquely positioned to deliver clean, low-cost, reliable, flexible and scalable solutions for Canada’s energy needs. For more information on how Canada can use wind energy, solar energy and energy storage to help achieve its net-zero commitments, consult “Powering Canada’s Journey to Net-Zero: CanREA’s 2050 Vision.” Follow us on Bluesky and LinkedIn here. Learn more at renewablesassociation.ca. 

    The post STATEMENT: Ontario’s Integrated Energy Plan emphasizes DERs and procurements appeared first on Canadian Renewable Energy Association.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Markey Slams Trump EPA’s Polluter-First Agenda and Rollback of Power Plant Pollution Limits

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

    Washington (June 12, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Environment and Public Works Committee and a co-chair of the Senate Environmental Justice Caucus, today issued the following statement after Administrator Zeldin announced the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposed repealing carbon pollution limits for coal-, oil-, and gas-fired power plants and gutting mercury and air toxics protections.

    “The Trump administration’s Polluters First Agenda harms all of us—especially fenceline and frontline communities—all while lining the pockets of fossil fuel executives,” said Senator Markey. “Under the guise of saving Americans money on their energy bills, Trump and Zeldin are ripping away protections from the carbon pollution turbocharging climate disasters and the toxics poisoning lungs. If Trump were serious about tackling the rising cost of living for American families and ensuring the reliability of our electrical grid, he would bring affordable clean energy and storage online—not turn the EPA into Every Polluter’s Ally. I will continue to fight this Polluters First Agenda because Americans deserve an EPA that puts their health over corporate wealth.”

    Under the Inflation Reduction Act and the Clean Air Act, Congress mandated the EPA to set standards that regulate large sources of air pollution like power plants. These rules were incredibly effective at reducing mercury in the air by over 90 percent, as well as other cancer-causing pollutants like lead, nickel, and arsenic. Carbon pollution has led to increasingly frequent billion-dollar climate disasters which are only worsening in severity each year.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Markey, Health, Labor Leaders, Educators, Climate Advocates Host Virtual Teach-In on Trump Administration’s Cuts to Critical Funding

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

    Health Care and Food Justice Cuts | Climate and Education Cuts

    Washington (June 12, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee and the Environment and Public Works Committee, yesterday hosted virtual teach-ins on Republicans’ proposed cuts to health care, food security, education, and climate initiatives as part of their Big Billionaire Bill (also called budget reconciliation). Senator Markey, Representative Summer Lee (PA-12), and advocates discussed how these cuts would mean people lose their jobs, their health care, their ability to feed their families, and put the future of our country at risk—all to guarantee tax breaks for billionaires. The budget bill is currently being debated by Senate Republicans after House Republicans passed the Big Billionaire Bill in May.

    “It’s simple: Republicans want to rip health care from 16 million people, tear food away from hungry families, cut off access to education for working class Americans, kill jobs, raise energy bills, and slash efforts to make our air and water cleaner– all to pay for tax cuts for billionaires. They want to do this through hard-to-understand processes, back-room negotiations, and by lying to the American public about what these cuts will do,” said Senator Markey. “I am using every opportunity I can to guarantee people know Republicans are voting against their livelihoods, their lives, and their future if they support this bill. We have the power to stop these cuts. We cannot agonize – we must organize to end this big billionaire boondoggle once and for all. Our future depends on it.”

    “There’s nothing beautiful about forcing families to choose between taking their kids to the doctor or feeding them—but that’s exactly what this budget bill would do if it lands on Trump’s desk. Drastic cuts to healthcare like Medicaid and food assistance like SNAP will hurt millions of people in Western Pennsylvania and across the country,” said Representative Lee. “The power of the people is always greater than the people in power, and in this moment, we must all use our power to pressure Republicans to vote no and put the people first—not the billionaires, not the corporate profiteers, and not the oligarchs in the White House. Lives literally depend on it.”

    “The Republican agenda is clear: raise costs on hardworking families and rip coverage away from millions. If they are successful in making the largest cuts to health care in history, 16 million Americans will lose coverage, all to fund tax breaks for billionaires and big corporations. These Republican attacks on Americans’ health care are as extreme as they are unpopular, and we must do everything we can to stop them from wreaking havoc on this country’s health care system. No one should lose access to life-saving care and coverage just so the ultra-rich can pay less in taxes,” said Anne Shoup, Senior Advisor, Protect Our Care.

    “The Senate must vote ‘NO’ on any budget bill that cuts or weakens SNAP and takes food away from millions of children, older adults, and people with disabilities. Period,” said Salaam Bhatti, SNAP director at the Food Research & Action Center (FRAC). “SNAP is one of the most effective programs out there, fueling the health and well-being of families, as well as our economy. Simply put, a strong and productive country is only possible when everyone has access to food. We urge Senators to oppose any cut to SNAP and instead work towards building a nation free from hunger.”

    “I’ve seen the faces of the people this bill will hurt. I think about the mothers trying to stretch every dollar to keep the lights on, the laid-off workers who need help to get back on their feet, the kids who will go without health care, and the retirees who will go to bed hungry because they can’t afford groceries,” said Zab Martinez, an AFSCME member and Medicaid and SNAP eligibility specialist from Dane County, Wisconsin. “We cannot let this bill pass. I urge you to speak up, write your senators, and demand that they stand with working families, not for billionaire tax giveaways.”

    “Republicans’ Billionaire Tax Scam will take health care away from millions, food out of the mouths of children, and raise costs for everyday families all to give trillions in tax breaks to the wealthy and large corporations. This is a dangerous and irresponsible piece of legislation designed to benefit the richest Americans, while everyday families suffer – and we are going to continue to uplift the voices of the bipartisan majority of Americans who overwhelmingly oppose this harmful bill,” said Michael Linden, Director of Families Over Billionaires.

    “Why would Republicans in Washington gut the basic needs kids and disabled Americans rely on to get by when the cost of groceries and housing are going up? To give the wealthy a tax break. It’s an outrage, which is why over 60% of Americans who hear anything about congressional Republican’s Big Beautiful Betrayal hate it. Now is the time for citizens to learn the consequences of the congressional Republican plan and spread the word so we can stop this Medicaid massacre dead in its tracks,” said Joe Radosevich, Counselor at the Center for American Progress (CAP).

    “Rather than protect Medicare and Medicaid, this bill cuts them, denying healthcare to 14 million people. Rather than strengthen public education, it weakens it. Rather than feeding poor families, it rips food out of their mouths. Education is an opportunity agent, and federal supports should not be used as a piggy bank to defund our already underfunded public schools. The bill includes $20 billion for a reckless school voucher program in the guise of a tax shelter for the well-off. Vouchers syphon crucial funds away from public schools into private hands. They are directly responsible for some of the largest student achievement drops ever recorded and mostly go to parents with kids already in private school,” said Randi Weingarten, President of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT).

    “We have 1,600 workers at Ultium and their jobs are going to be at risk. These are good UAW jobs making $30 an hour, and this bill is going to threaten that. It could have a dramatic impact on the auto industry, on dozens of investments across the entire country,” said David Green, Director of United Auto Workers (UAW) Region 2B. “If we don’t use our voices, they’re going to continue to take them away from us. And we have to fight for what’s right. And I am always going to be on the front line fighting for good union jobs with benefits because that’s how we move this country forward and that’s how we build the middle class.”

    “The energy tax credits on the chopping block during this budget reconciliation process have been utilized by school districts all over the country to install renewable energy projects from roof-top solar arrays to ground-source heat pumps, saving millions of tax-payer dollars on utility bills. These savings can be used to increase teacher salaries and build resilience in communities as schools produce their own power and lighten the load on the energy grid, all while moving us toward a more equitable future powered by clean, renewable energy. In Nevada alone, Washoe County School District is set to receive a $1.7 million check for just one school and Clark County School District, the nation’s 5th largest, has at least five solar eligible projects, including an array on Northeast Career and Technical Academy that is also training future solar installers.  Please urge your Senators to save energy tax credits in their version of the budget reconciliation bill,” said Liz Becker, IRA Campaign Coordinator of the Progressive Leadership Alliance of Nevada (PLAN).

    “The big bad boondoggle bill puts West Virginian communities, especially those most vulnerable to pollution, at risk. With cuts to programs that would facilitate a fair economic transition in Appalachia, such as a grant program to replace gas vehicles with electric vehicles and clean energy tax credits, West Virginians are losing out on the chance for safe and good-paying jobs. Furthermore, cuts to air monitoring, greenhouse gas emission data collection, and environmental review resources make our communities less safe and informed about the air we breathe and the water we drink. West Virginians have suffered with generations of corporate pollution and economic exploitation, and this bill would roll back a critical chance to escape the cycle of environmental injustice on which this country was built,” said Dani Parent, Co-executive Director of West Virginia Citizen Action.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister Carney speaks with President of the United Arab Emirates His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    Today, the Prime Minister, Mark Carney, spoke with the President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

    Prime Minister Carney recognized the UAE’s leadership in artificial intelligence and energy, and discussed opportunities to deepen bilateral collaboration in these sectors.

    The two leaders committed to remaining in contact.

    Associated Link

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Estes Votes to Rein In Government Spending

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas)

    Rep. Estes Votes to Rein In Government Spending

    Today, Rep. Ron Estes (R-Kansas) voted alongside House Republicans to pass H.R. 4 – the Rescissions Act of 2025. The legislation rescinds $9.4 billion of previously appropriated funding by Congress by a vote of 214 to 212.
     
    “The wasteful, fraudulent and abusive spending of taxpayer dollars by the federal bureaucracy, coupled with the over $36 trillion national debt, is placing a disastrous economic burden on the American people and future generations,” said Rep. Estes. “I was pleased to vote for the common sense rescissions package because it cuts reckless government spending that is misaligned with our nation’s values. Kansans deserve a government that is a good steward of their hard-earned dollars, and this legislation is a great step in the right direction to restore America’s fiscal health.”
     
    Background
    Rescissions are presidential requests that are sent to Congress to cut wasteful funds, as described in the Impoundment Control Act of 1974. The legislation only requires a simple majority in the House and Senate to pass.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Strand Optimisation Project – Stage 2 to begin next week

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    This will improve safety, road efficiency and productivity along this busy corridor as both pedestrians and cyclists will have a separated path from the busy road.

    Most of the construction will be carried out from 7am – 5pm, Monday to Friday and will not affect traffic travelling along SH16 The Strand. However, there may be occasional shoulder closures. Pedestrians will still be able to walk along The Strand but there may be traffic control in the sections we’re working in.

    The shared use path will connect to the existing Grafton Gully path just prior to Alten Road. It will follow the existing path on Churchill Street to the new signalised crossing (to be installed by Commercial Safety Vehicle Programme), then run along Beach Road and The Strand, connecting to the rail overbridge.

    Work will include:

    • Construction of a shared use path along the footpath and berm of SH16 The Strand
    • Upgrade of the intersection at Beach Road/The Strand. 
    • Installation of new zebra pedestrian crossings at Ronayne Street, Ngaoho Place, Sudbury Terrace and Cotesmore Way.

    View larger map

    While we are working on Section 1 (as shown on the map), access to Ronayne Street will only be available from Beach Road. Access to Ngaoho Place will be maintained. There may be limited access during construction of the zebra crossing, which will be carried out at night.

    Some activities will need to take place at night when traffic volumes are lower. Advanced notice will be provided for night works. There will be increased noise where we’re working – we apologise in advance for any disturbance this may cause.

    The work is scheduled to be completed in October 2025. This work is weather dependent and advertised dates may change.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Speech to Hospitality NZ Conference

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Good morning, 

    Thank you for inviting me to address the Hospitality Conference 2025 right here in Wellington today. I would like to begin by acknowledging:  

     

    • Nick Keene, National President of Hospitality New Zealand, 
    • Steve Armitage, Chief Executive of Hospitality New Zealand,
    • members of your Board, and 
    • the members of your team who keep it all running.  

     

    Thank you for the opportunity to be with you here today, to celebrate your success as an industry, and to share what has come through strongly – about how I – and the Government – can support you, our hard-working hospitality industry.  

       

    The last time I saw some of you, I was impressed by the ideas for reform coming from the inaugural Hospitality Summit – that was hosted at Parliament – in December. You made clear   your calls for levelling the playing field with off-licences – simplifying the complexities of licensing – and ensuring we support hospitality businesses to innovate and grow.  

     

    You’ve also made your opinions clear – through other channels – in conversations directly with me – in submissions to Councils – and in your submissions on central government law reform. You have spoken – a lot – and I have been and still am – listening. 

     

    This conference is another opportunity for our nation’s hospitality leaders, innovators, and operators to come together.  It is therefore an honour as the Minister responsible for alcohol policy, to outline some of the Government’s work for the sector.  I am here to reflect back what you have shared – and to talk about how we intend to respond. 

    As you heard earlier from my ministerial colleague, Hon Louise Upston – Minister for Tourism and Hospitality – this Government is focused on growth.  The hospitality and events sector contributes billions to our economy every year.  We know that tourism and hospitality    are areas where there is potential to grow our economy    and increase employment.   

     

    You’ve made it clear that smart changes to our current settings could make it easier to do business – run events – and drink responsibly.   I share your views that supporting a safe consumption environment brings both social and commercial benefits.  

     We know that most New Zealanders do drink responsibly, that going out for dinner with a friend,   going to a festival,   or getting a bottle of wine to enjoy at home – that is part of Kiwi culture, and rightly so. That demand is great for business, great for our culture sector, and great for fostering innovation.  

    I am cognisant of the fact that – at the same time – we need to keep New Zealanders safe. You will have seen that this government is committed to reducing violent crime.  On this front, the Hon Paul Goldsmith and I announced a Ministerial Advisory Group for victims of retail crime last year.  That group has already come back to us with a package of reforms which will give Kiwi businesses additional tools to deal with those who are robbing them of their livelihood and economic growth.

     

    We know that your industry has felt the effects of crime – that crime is bad for business and that it’s bad for the people making their way to and from    your business. 

    With this in mind, I’m carefully considering what would make the alcohol space safe for everybody.      However, crafting a considered – coordinated approach takes work – and I am still working through that –      but I want to outline a few key themes that have emerged from our ongoing dialogue:

     

    First, we need to provide more consistency and certainty for events.   

     

    Events are also a big part of the hospitality sector with huge benefits to your businesses – the economy at large – and to the people attending them.  

     

    You’ve raised concerns that special licensing can be inconsistent, and that it’s not always transparent to you why some conditions are required or not.  I am considering a better approach in this area, one that could recognise the range of events and their characteristics.   

     

    Variation will always be a part of this landscape, but I have asked for advice about how to be more consistent and transparent.  You’ve told us that dealing with multiple local Councils provides extra complexity – especially when touring an event    or artist    in multiple towns around the country – so I’m thinking about that too. 

     You’ve also expressed frustration – about the time-consuming process that central Government takes to pass licence exemptions for televised events like the Rugby World Cup. These are exciting events where we want to host both tourists and encourage New Zealanders to come out and celebrate together.  I’m looking at how we can streamline the process to make that happen without the usual rigmarole around getting an exemption.   

     

    Secondly, the process of getting and keeping a liquor licence should be easier. 

     

    Getting an alcohol licence is an important step obviously – for you, but it contributes to the outcomes we all want – everyone enjoying their night out, drinking responsibly – with you.  But I am aware that there are frustrations with the process, and I’m working on clearing the path and making it fairer for all.   

     

     You need a licensing process that is balanced – that can hear the right voices and take into account what the community wants.  That includes the business community – especially small businesses.   

     

    Keeping your licences – is just as important as getting them. I have heard your concerns that changes in the way local councils considers alcohol policy can create uncertainty for you.  However, we also recognise that it’s important for local communities to make the rules for their communities and not central government – but the rules must be fair, and evidence based if it is to quell harm. I’m thinking about how we can find solutions that work for everyone, I expect we will need to meet in the middle on some things – but certainty for businesses and safe communities are a goal. 

     

     Third, we need to keep everyone safe. 

     

    The hospitality industry is about people, and ensuring people are welcome and safe is what you do for a living. I know that the safety of your patrons, and your staff, is paramount.  If it wasn’t your businesses would fail. 

     

    Crime and harm will ruin a good night, and even a life, whether it’s out on Courtney Place, K-Road, or in their own homes.   Our festivals and events aren’t fun – if people get hurt. A safe society is a prosperous society.  

     

    I’m thinking about that too in our alcohol policy, about whether I need to change anything to drive down the violent crime which is causing harm in our communities. 

     

     Lastly, innovation should be supported. 

     

    Operating in a regulatory regime can mean that the law isn’t keeping up    with the innovative practice   shown by business.  The country needs businesses which use new ideas, knowledge and technology to develop better ways of doing things to help the New Zealand economy grow.  

     

    Reducing the regulatory burden on you means you can invest more in technology and innovation to diversify the economy – and, more importantly – give your customers a   good   time.  You’ve made it clear that you want to do things differently – that there are products and ways of working that you want to try.  And I reckon that consumers want that too!  

     

    For example, you will see today the work that the Department of Internal Affairs has done to get a framework for digital identity credentials up and running.  

     

    Five years ago we were only dreaming about the possibility of digital ID – but we are starting to see a shift to embracing technological solutions – and this government is serious about using these technologies. It’s important our regulatory systems keep up with this kind of innovation and encourage uptake, to make it easier for you to do business. 

     

    Finally, I want you to know – that the Government and I – are listening.  Even targeted, specific interventions are important for the businesses they effect.  You will have heard about the changes the Minister for Regulation is making to hairdressing and barber regulations, as an example.  

     

    I can think about some of the issues you’ve raised with me in this same way. No problem – nor business – is too small. 

      

    The feedback you’ve provided about regulatory barriers holding back innovation – is front of mind for me.  Where we can make changes easily, we should.  Where challenges are more complex, we will work together – to navigate them. 

     

    I reckon that I want many of the same things you do, and I’m appreciative of the concerns and successes you’ve shared with me to date.  You have identified the problems – and I am working on some of the solutions for you. 

     

    Thank you for inviting me here today – I’ve enjoyed the opportunity to discuss my thoughts with you.  I look forward to future discussions and encourage you all to keep going – momentum will build as our economy continues to grow – keep doing your amazing work. 

     

    I understand there is now some time for questions. 

     

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Public advisory: Search and Rescue training exercise in Northland

    Source: New Zealand Police

    A controlled training exercise will be conducted in the Tangihua Ranges, Waiotira from Friday 13 through to Sunday 14 June.

    The multi-agency exercise is being led by Police, with support from Land Search and Rescue and will simulate a land-based search and rescue scenario.

    Police, along with other agency personnel, will be in the area during the course of the weekend.

    Senior Sergeant Cliff Metcalfe, who is leading the search exercise, says: “Training is part of a controlled, routine training exercise and is not an emergency event.

    “These exercises enable Police and partner agencies to test our response and systems should an emergency ever arise and there is no immediate risk to the public.

    “We will aim to cause as little disturbance as possible and hope people will understand the importance of us carrying out these types of exercises.”

    ENDS.

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: East Granby Woman Admits $1.1 Million Pandemic Relief Program Scheme

    Source: United States Department of Justice (National Center for Disaster Fraud)

    David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Harry Chavis, Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation in New England, announced that KAREN GASTON, 44, of East Granby, waived her right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Sarah F. Russell in New Haven to offenses stemming from a scheme to defraud COVID-19 pandemic relief programs of more than $1.1 million.

    In March 2020, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (“CARES”) Act provided emergency financial assistance to Americans suffering the economic effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.  One source of relief provided by the CARES Act was the authorization of forgivable loans to small businesses for job retention and certain other expenses through the Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”).  The PPP was overseen by the U.S. Small Business Administration (“SBA”), and individual PPP loans were issued by private lenders, which received and processed PPP applications and supporting documentation, and then made loans using the lenders’ own funds, which were guaranteed by the SBA.  The CARES Act also authorized SBA to distribute Economic Injury Disaster Loans (“EIDLs”), which provided working capital to eligible small businesses, including sole proprietors, to meet operating expenses.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2020, Gaston controlled certain entities including LNK, Elegant Clinical, Ruby Red LLC, and Diamond Shine LLC.  LNK and Diamond Shine LLC were operational, but shared resources and employees.  Ruby Red LLC had only one client and Gaston was its sole employee.   Elegant Clinical was no longer operational.  Beginning in approximately April 2020, Gaston submitted loan applications to the PPP and EIDL programs that falsely represented the status of the operations, resources, and employees of these entities.  She also filed loan applications at separate financial institutions in order to disguise the true nature of her criminal activity.

    Specifically, Gaston’s loan applications falsely represented that her businesses were all active and operating concerns; falsely represented the number of employees and the amount of wages purportedly paid by the businesses; included copies of fraudulent tax returns and tax related documents; and falsely represented that a family member, used as an applicant on an application, was a part owner of one of her entities.

    Gaston received $1,163,910 in PPP and EIDL loan funds through this scheme.  Instead of using the funds for payroll or other operating expenses, she spent the money on personal expenditures, including travel, food, luxury home goods, expensive jewelry, cars, and paying off her home mortgage.

    Gaston pleaded guilty to wire fraud, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, and making illegal monetary transactions, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.

    Gaston has agreed to make full restitution.  She also has agreed to the forfeiture of a ring she purchased in July 2020 from the jeweler Harry Winston for $39,521.63.

    Gaston is released on a $100,000 bond pending sentencing, which is not scheduled.

    This investigation has been conducted by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael S. McGarry.

    Individuals with information about allegations of fraud involving COVID-19 are encouraged to report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721, or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Louisiana Men Receive Lengthy Federal Prison Sentences for Trafficking Controlled Substances

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    SHREVEPORT, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that several men have been sentenced in related Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (“OCDETF”) cases involving the trafficking of controlled substances. James Cordell Zeno, 37, of Jennings, Blaze Duhon, 27, of Kinder, Jamarcus Jamall Epps, 31, of Many, and James Spikes, 28, of Zwolle, have all been sentenced by United States District Judge S. Maurice Hicks, Jr.  Another defendant, Desmond Antoine Jackson, 40, of Zwolle, has pleaded guilty and is currently awaiting sentencing. 

    Zeno was sentenced to 282 months (23 years, 6 months) in prison, and Duhon was sentenced to 120 months (10 years) in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. According to information presented in court, in July 2022, the United States Postal Inspector intercepted a suspicious package that was destined for Duhon’s residence. Agents obtained a search warrant for the package and found it contained suspected methamphetamine.  The Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office then obtained a search warrant for the residence, and Duhon was located inside.  Days after the search warrant, the United States Postal Inspector intercepted a second suspicious package destined for Duhon’s residence.  Agents obtained a search warrant for this package and found it also contained suspected methamphetamine.  A search of Duhon’s phone revealed text messages between him and Zeno.  Two text messages sent by Zeno to Duhon contained photos of United States Postal Service receipts containing tracking information for two packages.  The tracking information matched both packages of methamphetamine that were intercepted by the United States Postal Inspector.   

    The suspected methamphetamine from both packages was seized and sent to the crime laboratory for testing and the results were positive for methamphetamine with a total weight of 280 grams.  Zeno and Duhon were indicted, and both pleaded guilty. 

    Jamarcus Jamall Epps and Desmond Antoine Jackson were also charged as the result of an investigation into drug trafficking activities in the Sabine Parish area.  In December 2021, the Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office Tactical Narcotics Team conducted a controlled purchase of a Taurus PT738 .380 caliber pistol from Epps. An audio/video recording of the transaction was captured by law enforcement. An examination of the firearm by agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (“ATF”) determined that the firearm sold by Epps was a working firearm. At the time of the sale of this firearm, Epps was a convicted felon, with a prior conviction of aggravated second degree battery in 2019 and he was prohibited from possessing any firearm or ammunition. Epps pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 77 months (6 years, 5 months) in prison for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

    Approximately one month later, law enforcement agents conducted a controlled purchase of methamphetamine from Jackson and that transaction was also recorded. The suspected controlled substance was sent to the crime laboratory for analysis and determined to be pure methamphetamine weighing at least 50 grams.  Jackson was charged and pleaded guilty to distribution of methamphetamine in February 2025 and is awaiting sentencing. 

    James Spikes was also involved in the trafficking of methamphetamine in the Sabine Parish area. In August 2022, an audio/video recording was made of a controlled purchase from Spikes in connection with this investigation. The suspected controlled substance purchased from Spikes was sent to the crime laboratory for testing and confirmed to be approximately 62 grams of pure methamphetamine. He pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and was sentenced to 120 months (10 years) in prison.

    These cases were investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, ATF, and Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jessica D. Cassidy. These cases were part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luttrell reintroduces the Veterans Claims Quality Improvement Act

    Source:

    Congressman Morgan Luttrell (R-TX), Chairman of the Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs (DAMA) Subcommittee on the House Veterans Affairs Committee, reintroduced the Veterans Claims Quality Improvement Act.

    “I am proud to reintroduce the Veterans Claims Quality Improvement Act. This legislation ensures that veterans and their families receive the support they have earned and holds the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) accountable by ensuring veterans receive fair and accurate decisions on their benefit claims, “ said Congressman Luttrell. “It is crucial our veterans get the help they deserve, and I will continue to fight for those who served our nation in Congress.

    Background
     This bill would: 

    • Require the VA to create systems that help claims processors learn from their avoidable deferrals.
    • Require the Veterans Board of Appeals to learn from these mistakes through their training programs.
    • Authorize annual performance evaluations for Board judges.
    • Require the VA to develop a plan to decrease unnecessary remands.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto Unveils Effort to Save Taxpayer Dollars by Rooting Out Medicare and Medicaid Fraud

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto

     ***VIDEO AVAILABLE***

    Senator Cortez Masto Spoke at a Press Conference Today About Her Proposal, which Comes as Senate Republicans Unveil Plan to Cut Americans’ Health Care

    FTPs for TV stations is available here.

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) unveiled draft legislation to invest in and improve the Health Care Fraud and Abuse Control Program (HCFAC). HCFAC was created to combat fraud across federal health programs, primarily Medicare and Medicaid. Cortez Masto’s legislation would strengthen the program and provide the government with a real, effective way to root out fraud and abuse in the health care system without kicking millions of Americans off of their health care. Footage of her speaking about this legislation today can be found here.

    In 2022, HCFAC related activities recovered $11 for every $1 the program spent to support health care audits and investigations. Following its investigations, HHS-OIG estimates that 2,332 individuals and entities were banned from doing business with Medicare and Medicaid as a result of alleged fraud and abuse. Infractions include egregious neglect of beneficiaries (like residents at nursing homes), inappropriate billing practices, and supporting fraudulent providers and suppliers.

    “As the former Attorney General of Nevada, I know first-hand the importance of investing in oversight for our government programs,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “This draft legislation increasing HCFAC funding is exactly what our agencies need to root out real fraud and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid while protecting Americans’ access to care. I hope to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to make sure this commonsense, cost-effective bill becomes law.”

    HCFAC is a joint initiative by the Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General (HHS-OIG), the Department of Justice (DOJ), and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to combat fraud across federal health programs, primarily Medicare and Medicaid. The program needs additional support and funding in order to keep pace with increasingly sophisticated health care fraud schemes.

    This draft legislation would increase mandatory HCFAC funding for HHS, CMS, and DOJ. This legislation would also allow HCFAC funding to be used to conduct oversight of all CMS programs, including the Affordable Care Act Insurance Marketplace and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).

    The bill text can be found here and a summary can be found here.

    Senator Cortez Masto has worked to strengthen the Medicare and Medicaid programs. She passed legislation to allow Medicare to negotiate lower drug prices and cap the cost of insulin at $35-a-month for Medicare recipients through the Inflation Reduction Act. She has also pushed pharmacy benefit managers to help continue to lower prescription drug costs. As Nevada Attorney General, Cortez Masto worked with the Nevada Medicaid Fraud Control Unit to go after bad actors, rooting out fraud and abuse within the system.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto, Nevada Delegation, and Governor Lombardo Demand Trump Administration Reverse Course on Nevada Job Corps Center Closure

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) led a letter joined by Senator Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Governor Joe Lombardo (R-Nev.), and Representatives Mark Amodei (R-Nev.-02), Steven Horsford (D-Nev.-04), Dina Titus (D-Nev.-01), and Susie Lee (D-Nev.-03) demanding that the Department of Labor (DOL) reverse course on its decision to defund and close Nevada’s Job Corps Program. The bipartisan outcry from Nevada officials at all levels underscores the importance of the Sierra Nevada Job Corps to Northern Nevada and its impact on tens of thousands of unprivileged students, staff, and employers from throughout the state. 

    “For more than sixty years, Job Corps has aided millions of low-income individuals gain the skills they need to succeed in the workplace,” wrote the officials. “Job Corps is the largest free residential education and job training program for young adults aged 16-24; and thus, is vital to helping students graduate high school, develop career technical skills, and connect students with employers. At a time when almost three-fourths of jobs require training beyond a high school diploma, Job Corps provides students the opportunity to succeed when they may not initially have the tools to do so.”

    “The Sierra Nevada Job Corps Center in Reno has been a vital economic engine for Northern Nevada, serving approximately 25,000 Nevadans since its opening, and graduating more than 500 vocational students a year,” they continued. “In the 2024 program year alone, nearly 82 percent of its students secured full-time employment with a starting wage of at least $17.97 per hour — nearly $6 above the Nevada’s minimum wage. Furthermore, 75 percent of Sierra Nevada Job Corps participants earn at least one certification required by employers.”

    “The DOL’s imminent stop work order on all Job Corps programming will displace approximately nearly 300 students and 170 staff members at the Sierra Nevada Job Corps Center,” they concluded. “The closure will also compel the Center to evict all of its students, leaving the vast majority at serious risk of homelessness. […] While we appreciate your department working to increase accountability and bring workforce programs into alignment with the Administration’s priorities, we strongly urge you reconsider the decision to cut funding and close Job Corps programs in Nevada and nationwide.”

    Full text of the letter can be found here.

    Senator Cortez Masto has been consistent in her fights against harmful gutting of support to students and families in need throughout Nevada, including cuts to mental health grant funding and food and nutrition programs. She has also delivered critical support to at-risk youth across Nevada. She helped secure nearly $12 million in funding for the Communities in Schools (CIS) program, which works with local partner organizations to provide eligible students and their families with essential services, including mental health care and access to high-quality afterschool and leadership programs. Cortez Masto’s provision to increase the number of mental health professionals in schools was included in the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which was signed into law. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Collins, Bipartisan Group Introduce Resolution Honoring Female Veterans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins, Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Cory Booker (D-NJ), John Boozman (R-AR), and Jacky Rosen (D-NV) introduced a bipartisan resolution to designate June 12, 2025, as “Women Veterans Appreciation Day” to honor the women who have served in the Armed Forces both on and off the battlefield throughout American history.

    “On Women Veterans Appreciation Day, we honor the millions of American women whose service has strengthened both our military and our nation,” said Senator Collins. “As we prepare to celebrate the 250th birthday of the United States Army, it is fitting that we recognize the vital contributions that women have made throughout the history of America’s armed forces. Over the years, their roles have expanded from support positions to senior leadership, and at every step, women have answered the call of duty, serving with courage, skill, and distinction.”

    The complete text of the resolution can be read here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Hears From CEO Of SSM Health Health About Impacts Of Medicaid Cuts In Republicans’ Reconciliation Package

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    June 12, 2025

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) spoke by phone with the CEO of SSM Health, Laura Kaiser, to discuss the impact that President Trump’s and congressional Republicans’ One Big Beautiful Bill Act will have on Medicaid, their hospitals, and the patients they serve. In short, the Republican bill will slash Medicaid coverage in order to pay for significant tax breaks for billionaires. In addition to serving the people of Illinois, SSM Health also has hospitals in Missouri, Wisconsin, and Oklahoma.

    The One Big Beautiful Bill Act cuts $800 billion from Medicaid and $300 billion from the Affordable Care Act (ACA), resulting in 16 million Americans losing health insurance coverage. Under the Republican bill, 498,674 people in Illinois, 250,397 people in Missouri, 199,430 people in Oklahoma, and 258,396 people in Wisconsin are projected to lose their health insurance coverage.

    “President Trump and congressional Republicans are coming for your health care to pay for tax cuts for billionaires. It’s as cruel as that,” said Durbin. “It doesn’t matter if you live in a red or blue state—16 million Americans will lose health coverage— and hospitals will suffer as I discussed with SSM Health. These hospitals don’t just represent Illinoisans—they also serve the people of Missouri, Wisconsin, and Oklahoma. During our call, we discussed the horrible impacts this bill will have on their patients, especially children and in rural areas. I hope the Missouri and Oklahoma Senators as well as the senior Senator of Wisconsin will do the right thing for these hospitals and the people they represent and reject this cruel bill.”

    Under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act:

    1. Patients must first report their employment to obtain Medicaid coverage resulting in difficulties navigating the bureaucratic mess of hastily crafted verification systems.
    1. It halts provider taxes used by 49 states including Illinois to draw down a federal match to finance the Medicaid program—this provision blocks new or increased provider taxes, which will harm access to all patients in urban and rural hospitals.  
    1. It increases co-pays for Medicaid beneficiaries for doctor visits and prescriptions and allows providers to refuse to see patients who fail to pay—resulting in low-income patients forgoing care.
    1. And it fails to extend the enhanced premium tax credits for purchasing insurance on the exchange. These tax credits make insurance more affordable and resulted in the uninsured rate reaching a record low under President Biden. 

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Cleaver, Lynch, Meeks, Torres Introduce Choice Neighborhoods Initiative Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Emanuel Cleaver II (5th District Missouri)

    (Washington, D.C.) – Today, Co-Chairs of the Congressional Public Housing Caucus Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), Ranking Member of the Financial Services Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance, Stephen Lynch (D-MA), Gregory Meeks (D-NY), and Ritchie Torres (D-NY) reintroduced the Choice Neighborhoods Initiative Act. The legislation would permanently authorize and expand the Choice Neighborhoods Program. Senators Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE) and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) have introduced companion legislation in the U.S. Senate. 

    The Choice Neighborhoods Program is a transformative grant program within the Department of Housing and Urban Development that converts severely distressed neighborhoods into high-quality, mixed-use community developments. Established in 2010, the program has provided $1.8 billion in competitive grants to localities and community organizations for comprehensive neighborhood redevelopment across dozens of distressed communities. In a recent HUD report, researchers found that in the neighborhoods studied, every dollar of Choice funding leveraged an additional $7.34 toward housing redevelopment.

    “As American families struggle with our national housing affordability crisis, we need an all-hands-on deck approach to promote the development of affordable housing and rejuvenation of public housing all over the country,” said Congressman Cleaver. “The Choice Neighborhood Program has proven to be the kind of transformative tool we need in this effort, catalyzing public and private investment in underserved areas that enables the revitalization of entire communities. Not only does this program expand the construction of affordable housing options, but it opens the door for working class families to access new opportunities and climb the economic ladder. I’m proud to introduce the Choice Neighborhoods Initiative Act with Senators Blunt Rochester and Van Hollen, along with Reps. Lynch, Meeks, and Torres, as we seek to permanently reauthorize this vital work and strengthen the program in the process.”

    “The Choice Neighborhoods Program leverages public and private investment to expand affordable housing and revitalize entire communities. It’s exactly the sort of solution we should be supporting to solve the housing crisis,” said Congressman Gregory W. Meeks. “It’s a proven model that not only improves housing but also uplifts neighborhoods, businesses, and the families who live there. I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing the Choice Neighborhoods Initiative Act.”

    “The housing crisis in America demands bold, comprehensive solutions and the Choice Neighborhoods Program delivers just that,” said Rep. Torres. “It empowers communities to rebuild from within, transforming public housing and surrounding neighborhoods into engines of opportunity. By permanently authorizing this program, we’re aiming make a long-term investment in housing, equity, and economic mobility. I’m proud to join Rep. Cleaver and my colleagues in advancing this legislation to ensure that every community, especially the most underserved, can share in America’s promise of opportunity.”

    “As the United States faces a severe affordable housing shortage, the Choice Neighborhoods program is a proven tool that can reinvigorate our most distressed neighborhoods and unlock their future success,” said Senator Blunt Rochester, member of the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee. “By catalyzing public and private investment, this program has successfully contributed to the preservation of affordable housing and created over 21,000 new housing units across 52 communities in America, including in my hometown of Wilmington. Making this program permanent not only ensures these transformative investments continue, but it also gives us yet another tool in our toolbox to address the housing affordability crisis in Delaware and across the country. I’m grateful to Senator Van Hollen and Congressman Cleaver for joining me in leading this effort, and I’m hopeful we can work together in both chambers to get this bill passed” 

    “As communities struggle to keep up with the demand for affordable housing, we must accelerate our efforts to redevelop and revitalize underserved neighborhoods. This legislation will help build on the success of the Choice Neighborhoods Program – unlocking additional public and private investment to create greater access to housing, and ultimately opportunity, across the country,” said Senator Van Hollen.

    “As a recent HUD Choice Neighborhoods Implementation grant recipient, our experience with the program has been extremely positive,” said Logan Herring, CEO of The WRK Group. “Choice funding has accelerated our neighborhood plan significantly, with 250 new mixed income homes in or beginning construction just two years after the award. In addition, we’ve been able to leverage over $150 million in additional funding with this grant and the HUD staff has been professional, responsive, and knowledgeable – great to work with. We enthusiastically support this bill to continue and expand the Choice program.”

    “The Choice Neighborhoods Initiative (CNI) revitalizes distressed public housing and nearby areas through community-driven redevelopment,” said Mark Thiele, CEO of NAHRO. “By focusing on housing, people, and neighborhoods, it makes communities safer and more vibrant, creating opportunities without displacing residents. Continued support for CNI is essential to creating lasting positive change in communities nationwide. NAHRO proudly endorses the Choice Neighborhoods Initiative Act of 2025. This act will help transform areas of extreme poverty into sustainable, mixed-income neighborhoods by redeveloping distressed housing and investing in communities.” 

    “PHADA supports the Choice Neighborhoods Initiative Act of 2025,” said Tim Kaiser, executive director of Public Housing Authorities Directors Association (PHADA). “Permanently authorizing the Choice Neighborhoods program—which leverages public and private funding to revitalize public housing developments and their surrounding neighborhoods—will ensure this program remains a vital tool to address the capital needs backlog. PHADA remains committed to advocating for robust funding and resources for public housing programs, including Choice Neighborhoods.”

    This legislation has been endorsed by the  American Planning Association; Catholic Charities USA; Central Delaware Habitat for Humanity; Delaware State Housing Authority; Habitat for Humanity of New Castle County; Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC); National Association of REALTORS; National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials; National Center for Healthy Housing; NeighborGood Partners; Public Housing Authorities Directors Association (PHADA); REACH Riverside Development Corporation; Sussex County Habitat for Humanity; UnidosUS; Wilmington Housing Authority; Wilmington Neighborhood Conservancy Land Bank; and YWCA Delaware.

    Official text of the Choice Neighborhoods Initiative Act is available here.

    A one-pager of the Choice Neighborhoods Initiative Act is available here.

     

    Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee’s Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, North Kansas City, Gladstone, and Claycomo. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee and Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance. For more information, please contact Matt Helfant at 202-590-0175 or matthew.helfant@mail.house.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Biggs Leads Effort to Protect American Jobs and Consumers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Andy Biggs (AZ-05)

    Congressman Biggs led a letter to U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick urging his department to reverse its plan to terminate the Tomato Suspension Agreement (TSA) and instead pursue substantive negotiations that strengthen American businesses and protect American jobs through a bilateral arrangement.

    Since its inception in 1996, the TSA has been renegotiated every five years, ensuring fair and enforceable trade deals that support American tomato growers and keep prices stable for consumers. According to economic analysis, terminating the agreement now risks up to 50,000 jobs in Arizona and Texas alone.

    “President Trump’s America First trade policies have delivered real results for American workers, and abandoning the TSA now would undermine those achievements,” said Congressman Biggs.

    “The TSA has safeguarded tens of thousands of American jobs, stabilized markets, and strengthened our vital agriculture sector. Pulling the plug on the TSA would only hurt American families still struggling from the radical Biden-Harris regime’s inflationary policies.

    “This is an opportunity for President Trump to do what he does best: Make a deal that benefits American businesses, workers, and consumers. I will continue to defend our hardworking farmers and fight for fair trade agreements in Congress.”

    The letter may be read here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Body found following fire, Waihi

    Source: New Zealand Police

    One person has been found deceased following a fire this morning in Waihi.

    At around 7:50am emergency services received reports of a fire on Montrose Road.

    Police and Fire and Emergency New Zealand investigators are carrying out a scene examination.

    The cause of the fire is yet to be determined.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: House Republicans Pass Legislation to Restore Law and Order in Nation’s Capital, End D.C. Sanctuary City Policies

    Source: US House of Representatives Republicans

    The following text contains opinion that is not, or not necessarily, that of MIL-OSI –

    WASHINGTON—Today, House Republicans passed H.R. 2056, the District of Columbia Federal Immigration Compliance Act, which mandates that the District of Columbia (D.C.) government comply with requests from federal immigration authorities, effectively ending D.C.’s sanctuary city policies.

    House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-Mich.) and Congressman Clay Higgins (R-La.), who introduced H.R. 2056, released the following statements: 

    “House Republicans are committed to restoring law and order across our nation, and that starts right here in our capital,” Chairwoman McClain said. “Sanctuary city policies have created a haven for illegal activity and jeopardized the safety of American citizens. Rep. Higgins’ H.R. 2056 sends a clear message: no city is above federal law. Republicans will not sit back while extreme policies threaten American lives.”

    “Sanctuary policies prioritize criminal illegal aliens over the safety and security of the American people. Our nation’s capital city should set an example for enforcing federal immigration laws. I appreciate my colleagues’ support in the House. I urge the Senate to pass this bill and send it to President Trump’s desk so we can restore some modicum of decency in Washington, DC,” Congressman Higgins said.

    H.R. 2056 amends federal law to explicitly require the District of Columbia government to comply with requests from federal immigration authorities. It mandates information sharing between D.C. authorities and federal immigration agencies. It also requires D.C. to detain illegal aliens upon request from federal immigration authorities.

    MIL OSI USA News –