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Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pressley Rallies Against “Big Ugly Bill,” Demands Protection of Medicaid and Life-Saving Care

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07)

    “Medicaid has been essential – providing essential care to those who need it most in the midst of a crisis or a chronic diagnosis.”

    “Republicans who gave their vote and their endorsement to this horrific “Big Ugly Bill” should be ashamed. They voted against their neighbors. They voted against their constituents. They are complicit in wholesale harm.”

    Video (YouTube)

    WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) rallied with advocates from Caring Across Generations, Care Can’t Wait, and partner organizations to protest Trump’s and Republicans’ Big Ugly Bill that proposes disastrous cuts to Medicaid, SNAP, and other essential programs and would leave communities sicker, poorer, and more vulnerable. The Congresswoman made it plain that Medicaid is a lifeline, and the support it provides is critical to everyone’s livelihoods – from those care taking for their loved ones to those needing medication for chronic conditions.

    A transcript of the Congresswoman’s remarks, as delivered, is available below, and the full video is available here.

    Transcript: Pressley Rallies Against “Big Ugly Bill,” Demands Protection of Medicaid and Life-Saving Care

    Upper Senate Park

    June 11, 2025

    Hey, movement family!

    And we are truly one movement and one human family, and that’s why you’re all here.

    When you could have been anywhere else, you chose to be here because you recognize that our freedoms and our destinies are tied.

    Thank you to our advocates and our partners in good. Thank you for being here today. Thank you for never losing sight of what is necessary in the work and the fight for our shared liberation and our collective humanity.

    You know, every day in Congress, I sit across the aisle from Republicans, and I’ve asked myself – since all around us is callousness, contempt for every person that calls this country home, and I’m going to say cluelessness – you know, we’ll stick with that C theme there – chaos, callousness, contempt and cluelessness.

    Because I wonder if they’ve ever sat at the bedside of a loved one in their final days.

    I wonder if they ever rushed a toddler to the emergency room with a fever.

    These are basic human experiences: grief, worry, care, concern.

    So either my colleagues across the aisle are some sort of extreme anomaly, and they’ve never experienced these moments, or they simply don’t give a damn.

    Maybe they believe if the language you speak is different, or your bank account is lighter, your heart just doesn’t break the same way.

    But you and I know that’s not true.

    Again, we are part of one human family.

    Brother James Baldwin reminds us that, “The children are always ours, every single one of them, all over the globe; and I’m beginning to suspect that whoever is incapable of recognizing that may be incapable of morality,” said Baldwin.

    Well, Medicaid is a lifeline to both our elders and our babies.

    It’s NICU care, it’s blood pressure medications, it’s cancer treatment.

    There is no moment, in my view, more basic and human than trying to take care of and keep safe your loved ones.

    In America, far too often, for far too many, we come up short.

    But that is not on our caregivers. That is on a broken system. And in the midst of broken systems and broken promises, programs like SNAP, food stamps have been essential.

    The difference between a family going hungry or being able to stretch those groceries until pay day.

    You know, being poor is not a character flaw, and being poor is one of the hardest, most expensive – one of the hardest jobs you’ll ever have, and one of the most expensive conditions.

    Medicaid has been essential – providing essential care to those who need it most in the midst of a crisis or a chronic diagnosis.

    Republicans who gave their vote and their endorsement to this horrific “Big Ugly Bill” should be ashamed.

    They voted against their neighbors. They voted against their constituents. They are complicit in wholesale harm.

    And these programs, as I said, they are essential. They are core to the basic functions of government. We’re not talking about nice-to-haves.

    We’re talking about programs that determine who lives, programs that determine who dies, programs that determine who survives, programs that determine who thrives.

    But this is not an inevitability.

    And this extremist march towards fascism – what history has taught us time and time again is that appeasement never works. Silence never works.

    What they want is a citizenry that is ignorant and uninformed. They want a citizenry that is indifferent to the suffering of their neighbors. They want a citizenry that is inactive.

    But in this moment today, we assemble, we come together to reject and resist the vision of Donald Trump’s America.

    And let me just say, for those that think that you can inoculate yourself or you are exempt from this harm, this harm is coming for everyone.

    Your whiteness will not keep you safe. Your wealth will not keep you safe. This hurt and harm is coming for everybody.

    I just wish I had some colleagues that were more concerned with doing a job than keeping it.

    That’s what has them complicit in this cult of cowards and wholesale harm because of this culture of grievance and political retribution that the occupant of the Oval Office moves with.

    What happens in the weeks to come will determine the lives and livelihoods of families for decades to come.

    Look, y’all, movement family – this is not just about how do we get through the next four years. This moment is going to determine and shape the next 100.

    And the Senate must act accordingly and listen to the people and stop this bill in its tracks.

    The consequences cannot be more severe. I’m appealing to people – this is bigger than Democrat and Republican. This is about right and wrong. This is about good and evil.

    I’m appealing to people of conscience to stand united against this bill, to raise your voice and share your stories.

    And to the Republicans who are all too eager to green light a handout to billionaires on the backs of the most vulnerable: if you won’t act in good faith, at least act to save your own job, because we will not forget where you stand in this moment.

    The people deserve better, and we can stop this Big Ugly Bill.

    So movement, family, I love you.

    We won’t back down, we won’t back down, we won’t back down, we won’t back down, we won’t back down, we won’t back down.

    I love you, movement family.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Agriculture – Wool carpet decision a ‘parachute’ for farmers – Federated Farmers

    Source: Federated Farmers

    Kāinga Ora’s decision to use wool carpet in its social housing is a massive win for wool growers but won’t be enough to save the industry on its own, Federated Farmers says.
    “Our wool industry is in major freefall, and this move from Kāinga Ora is the parachute we desperately need,” Federated Farmers meat and wool chair Toby Williams says.
    “This will slow our drop a bit but, in reality, what we really need now is an updraft to lift wool back up into being the number-one fibre globally.
    “It’s certainly a massive step in the right direction, though, and we’re very pleased with the announcement yesterday.”
    Williams says Kāinga Ora is New Zealand’s largest landlord, so its contract has the capability to soak up large volumes of wool, which in turn will help drive up prices.
    As well as transitioning to using wool carpet in its new social housing, Kāinga Ora will also use wool carpet in existing homes if the whole house needs recarpeting, such as when renovating older properties.
    The decision comes after a recent Request for Proposal (RFP) inviting both wool and nylon carpet providers to tender for the supply of carpet and underlay in its properties.
    “Last year Federated Farmers slammed Kāinga Ora for initially deciding to categorically rule out using woollen carpets in its social housing,” Williams says.
    “Our homegrown wool is an incredible product and it beggared belief that Kāinga Ora weren’t even giving wool the chance to compete against nylon products.
    “That was a total slap in the face for struggling Kiwi sheep farmers and rural communities, and we made it very clear it was a ridiculous, short-sighted decision.
    “It’s great they saw sense and allowed wool to have a crack – and even better that a wool provider has won the contract.
    “It just goes to show that when wool is given a fair chance, it comes out on top as a natural, sustainable and renewable alternative to cheap and nasty plastic alternatives.”
    Williams says the decision is the result of a massive collaborative effort across the entire wool industry.
    “Federated Farmers and other groups have been working really hard for years to get the Government engaged with, and listening to, wool growers.
    “We recently launched our SOS: Save Our Sheep campaign to hammer home the message that we need urgent action if we’re to keep our sheep and wool industry from collapsing entirely.
    “Farmers are sick of woolly ideas – they want solid actions like this.
    “It just shows that strong leadership from the Government can be a factor in restoring confidence to our embattled wool industry.”
    Williams says the housing agency’s decision is also a big step forward for environmental sustainability.
    “Using cheap, nasty plastic carpets might save a few bucks, but at what cost to the environment?
    “If Kāinga Ora had picked a fossil fuel-derived synthetic carpet over a sustainable New Zealand-grown woollen product, just because it’s cheaper, it would have been a disaster.”
    Williams says he’s also really pleased that high-quality, sustainable Kiwi wool will be in the homes of some of New Zealand’s most vulnerable tenants.
    Kāinga Ora will transition to using wool carpet in its new homes from 1 July 2025, when the supply arrangements come into effect. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement of Commissioner Kristin N. Johnson on the Extension of Compliance Date for Form PF

    Source: US Commodity Futures Trading Commission

    Today, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and the Securities Exchange Commission voted to extend the effective compliance date for relevant registrants to comply with the revised Form PF. The Joint Final Rule by the Commissions was adopted over a year ago on February 8, 2024. As Securities Exchange Commissioner Caroline Crenshaw noted in her statement during the SEC’s public meeting today, registrants have had a significant window of time to prepare for tomorrow’s compliance deadline. The issues raised indicate potential technology-based concerns as well as challenges with validation, testing, and ensuring effective capabilities for timely and accurate reporting of requested information. These issues should have been fully addressed prior to today. In the least, the issues should have been presented to the Commissions before the eleventh hour to enable proper investigation and resolution.
    Notwithstanding grave concerns, I have moved the request for an extension. In part, my decision is intended to demonstrate the strength and value of bi-partisan Commissions as well as our ability to reach the best outcomes for our markets, our economy and our nation. I am hopeful that the Commissions leadership’ commitments to democratic processes continue to prevail and our regulation continues to protect investors, encourage market integrity and stability, and foster and promote the deepest, most liquid markets in the world.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Call for information – Criminal damage – Wadeye

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Police are calling for information after three separate incidents occurred in Wadeye on Sunday.

    Around 3:50pm, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received reports that a male entered the Wadeye clinic yard and allegedly used a rock to smash the windows and side mirrors to two government vehicles before fleeing fled the scene.

    The incident resulted in approximately $20,000 worth of damage.

    Police attended and reviewed CCTV footage and have since identified a person of interest.

    Later in a separate incident, around 10:30pm, police observed a suspicious vehicle driving through Wadeye community. The vehicle began flashing its lights at police and upon police approach the vehicle drove into nearby bushland.

    A short time later, police attempted a traffic apprehension; however, the vehicle failed to stop, and a short pursuit ensued. The offending vehicle then turned around and drove back in the direction of police, swerving toward their vehicle. Police withdrew from the area and returned to the police compound.

    Later, in a third incident, around 12:40am, one male attended the police compound and began throwing projectiles in the direction of the officers. Officers deployed OC spray before the male fled the scene.

    The first and third incident are believed to be linked; however, investigations are ongoing to identify those involved in the traffic incident.

    Police urge anyone with information to make contact on 131 444 or you can report anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Member contributions statement

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    What is a MCS

    The member contributions statement (MCS) is an annual statement used for the 2017–18 and prior years to report:

    • contributions you received for each member during the financial year
    • the balance and other attributes of the account they held in the fund.

    The MCS for the 2017–18 financial year was due 31 October 2018.

    Amendments to information reported on the MCS in the 2017–18 financial year and prior years should be done using Online services for business.

    For detailed information to how to complete the MCS for 2017–18 and prior years, see Member contributions statement protocolExternal Link.

    From 2018-19, the MCS has been replaced by the Member Account Attributes Service (MAAS) and the Member Account Transaction Service (MATS). For more information, see Fund reporting protocol.

    How we use the MCS for 2017–18 and prior years

    We use the MCS for 2017–18 and prior years to:

    • display information online to help members understand, manage and consolidate their super accounts
    • calculate the super co-contribution, low income super contribution (for concessional contributions made between 1 July 2012 and 30 June 2017) and low income superannuation tax offset (for concessional contributions made from 1 July 2017) for eligible members, and pay entitlements to the appropriate destination
    • calculate each member’s concessional and non-concessional contributions and assess, and administer excess contributions tax and the ‘Fairer taxation of excess concessional contributions’ measure
    • assess the member’s liability to Division 293 tax
    • check employer compliance with the super guarantee
    • identify amounts to be collected for former temporary residents.

    What to include in the MCS

    You need to report for every person who was a member during the financial year for 2017-18 and prior years. This includes members who received no contributions during the year and those who rolled over their benefits or exited the fund before the end of the financial year.

    If you rollover all or part of the member’s super interest to another fund during the year, you must still lodge an MCS for that member and report all contributions received prior to the rollover.

    How to lodge

    Electronic lodgment

    You can lodge your MCS for 2017–18 and prior years electronically as a file transfer through Online services for business.

    You must lodge electronically if you’re reporting for 20 or more members. If you’re reporting for fewer than 20 members, electronic reporting is optional.

    The format of your MCS file must meet the current MCS electronic reporting specificationExternal Link.

    You’ll receive an online receipt when the report is lodged.

    Paper lodgment

    You can only lodge a paper form if you’re reporting for:

    In each case, you can still lodge electronically if you prefer.

    Lodging through a supplier or agent

    If a supplier (agent) lodges the MCS on your behalf, you must make a written declaration that:

    • you have authorised the supplier to give the MCS to us
    • the information you gave to the supplier to prepare the document is true and correct.

    Give the declaration to the supplier and keep a copy for 5 years. You must show us this declaration if we ask to see it.

    If the report is lodged:

    • electronically – you can make your declaration using the Supplier lodgment declaration
    • on paper – the declaration is included as part of the form.

    For more information, see Member contributions statement protocolExternal Link.

    Amendments

    If you discover any material errors or omissions in the information you reported in your MCS, you must lodge an amended MCS within 30 days of becoming aware of these errors.

    You must ensure that all the correct, previously reported data in the original MCS for those accounts is re-reported on the amended MCS, exactly as it was in the original lodgment. This is because an amended statement for a particular member account replaces the original MCS for that account.

    You must not amend an MCS merely because a member wants to change the amount or character of the contributions they made during the year, to avoid an excess contributions tax liability.

    Penalties

    Penalties may apply if you:

    • don’t lodge the MCS on time
    • don’t report for all your members and former members who held an interest in the fund at any time during the year
    • provide incorrect information.

    The amount of penalty depends on your fund’s assessable income and how late the lodgment was.

    For more information, see False or misleading statement penalty.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Public country-by-country (CBC) registration form

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    Who can register for Public CBC reporting

    All Public country-by-country (CBC) reporting parent entities (whether located overseas or in Australia) can register with the ATO.

    Registration allows for more efficient interactions with us, including:

    • nominating an authorised representative for your entity
    • providing your Public CBC report to us
    • requesting an extension of time to provide your Public CBC report
    • requesting an exemption from reporting obligations.

    Getting the registration form

    Download the Public country-by-country registration form (NAT 75645, PDF 306KB)This link will download a file and save it to your computer.

    Completing the form

    The form is a fillable PDF file to type in and fill out on-screen. Do not print the blank form and fill out by hand.

    You must complete the form in English.

    For help completing the form, see Instructions to complete Public country-by-country registration.

    Make sure you keep a copy of the completed form and any attachments for your own records.

    Lodging the form

    Email your completed Public country-by-country registration form (NAT 75645) to PublicCBCreports@ato.gov.au. You will receive a receipt email shortly afterwards.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: As Trump’s illegal military deployment cuts into firefighting resources, Governor Newsom launches new CAL FIRE recruiting effort

    Source: US State of California Governor

    Jun 11, 2025

    What you need to know: Governor Newsom is launching a new CAL FIRE recruitment drive – at JoinCALFIRE.com – as President Trump’s illegal military deployment impacts firefighting resources already seeing cuts by the U.S. Forest Service.

    LOS ANGELES – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the launch of a new effort to recruit for one of the world’s leading firefighting departments, CAL FIRE.

    The effort comes as President Trump’s illegal militarization of Los Angeles cuts into valuable firefighting resources. Roughly 300 California National Guard fire crews have been diverted to armories in the Los Angeles region — cutting CalGuard’s firefighting force by three-quarters. This impact is on top of the Trump administration’s cuts to the U.S. Forest Service, which also threatens the safety of communities across the states.

    As part of the state’s ongoing investment in wildfire resilience and emergency response, CAL FIRE has significantly expanded its workforce over the past five years by adding an average of 1,800 full-time and 600 seasonal positions annually – nearly double that from the previous administration. Over the next four years and beyond, CAL FIRE will be hiring thousands of additional firefighters, natural resource professionals, and support personnel to meet the state’s growing demands.

    As California contends with rising wildfire risks, increasing demands for emergency services, and the need to fast-track mitigation and prevention efforts, recruiting mission-driven professionals across all disciplines has never been more critical. The state’s new website launched today, JoinCALFIRE.com, empowers prospective applicants with comprehensive information about the department’s diverse career paths— from firefighting and natural resource management to land use planning and information technology.

    With peak fire season just now getting underway, we can’t let our guard down. President Trump’s political stunt is now impacting our resources – with three-quarters of the National Guard’s firefighting crews diverted to Los Angeles armories. We’re ramping up our efforts to recruit for CAL FIRE to keep our communities safe – especially as the federal government makes conditions even more dangerous.

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    With the scale of hiring underway, JoinCALFIRE.com is launching at a pivotal time to streamline recruitment, improve public access to career information, and ensure the department attracts the qualified, mission-driven professionals needed to strengthen statewide readiness and response capabilities.

    “As our state faces unprecedented challenges, we are committed to building a team that not only meets but exceeds the demands of today’s emergencies,” said CAL FIRE Director and Fire Chief Joe Tyler. “Whether you’re launching your professional journey or looking to make a transformative career change, JoinCALFIRE.com offers the tools and resources to take that first step.”

    Building on unprecedented progress

    Late last month, the Governor announced $72 million for projects across the state that help reduce catastrophic wildfire risk. Governor Newsom also announced 13 new vegetation management projects spanning nearly 7,000 acres have already been approved for fast-tracking under his new streamlining initiative.

    This builds on consecutive years of intensive and focused work by California to confront the severe ongoing risk of catastrophic wildfires, and Governor Newsom’s emergency proclamation signed in March to fast-track forest and vegetation management projects throughout the state. Additionally, to bolster the state’s ability to respond to fires, Governor Newsom announced in April that the state’s second C-130 Hercules airtanker is ready for firefighting operations, adding to the largest aerial firefighting fleet in the world. 

    New, bold moves to streamline state-level regulatory processes builds long-term efforts already underway in California to increase wildfire response and forest management in the face of a hotter, drier climate. A full list of California’s progress on wildfire resilience is available here.

    Highlights of achievements to date include:

    • Historic investments — Overall, the state has more than doubled investments in wildfire prevention and landscape resilience efforts, providing more than $2.5 billion in wildfire resilience since 2020, with an additional $1.5 billion to be allocated from the 2024 Climate Bond.
    • On-the-ground progress — More than 2,200 landscape health and fire prevention projects are complete or underway, and from 2021-2023, the State and its partners treated nearly 1.9 million acres, including nearly 730,000 acres in 2023.
    • Increasing transparency — The Governor’s Task Force launched an Interagency Treatment Dashboard to display wildfire resilience work across federal, state, local, and privately managed lands across the State. The Dashboard, launched in 2023, provides transparency, tracks progress, facilitates planning, and informs firefighting efforts.
    • Hardening communities — Adding to California’s nation-leading fire safety  standards, Governor Newsom signed an executive order to further improve community hardening and wildfire mitigation strategies to neighborhood resilience statewide. Since 2019, CAL FIRE has awarded more than $450 million for 450 wildfire prevention projects across the state and conducts Defensible Space Inspections on more than 250,000 homes each year.
    • Leveraging cutting-edge technology — On top of expanding the world’s largest aerial firefighting fleet, CAL FIRE has doubled its use of Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) and the state is utilizing AI-powered tools to spot fires quicker.

    Press releases, Recent news

    Recent news

    Jun 11, 2025

    News LOS ANGELES – President Trump continues to violate the U.S. Constitution and federal law by turning the military into his own personal police force against American citizens. As Governor Newsom said in his address to Californians and the American people…

    Jun 11, 2025

    News Los Angeles, California – Governor Gavin Newsom issued the following statement today on the passing of Brian Wilson, singer-songwriter and Beach Boys co-founder:”Jennifer and I join the world in mourning the death of Brian Wilson, a musical genius and California…

    Jun 10, 2025

    News Los Ángeles — En un discurso pronunciado esta noche ante casi 40 millones de californianos y estadounidenses en todo el país, el Gobernador Gavin Newsom condenó la militarización ilegal de Los Ángeles por parte del Presidente Trump y advirtió que las acciones del…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Inmate Mistakenly Released Captured by U.S. Marshals

    Source: US Marshals Service

    Philadelphia, PA — On June 11th, members of the U.S. Marshals Eastern Pennsylvania Violent Crimes Fugitive Task Force arrested Jamal Burkett, 53, in the 7900 block of Lindbergh Boulevard in Philadelphia. In 2023, Burkett was sentenced to 192 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to assault on a federal officer and weapons possession. The charges stemmed from Burkett discharging a firearm multiple times at a Philadelphia Police Officer who was assigned to a federal task force. Burkett was mistakenly released on May 14th from the Curran-Fromhold Correctional Facility after local charges were satisfied. An audit conducted by the Marshal Service on June 10th alerted to Burkett’s release and a warrant was immediately issued by the United States District Court for failure to surrender for an imposed federal sentence.

    This morning, at approximately 7:00 a.m., members of the fugitive task force surrounded a family members apartment in southwest Philadelphia where they believed Burkett was hiding. Burkett was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Federal Detention Center.

    Robert Clark, Supervisory Deputy for the fugitive task force stated, “Anyone who discharges a firearm at police officers must pay for their actions. Capturing Burkett in less than 24 hours after being notified of his release is truly exceptional.”

    The Eastern Pennsylvania Violent Crimes Fugitive Task Force is a team of law enforcement officers led by U.S. Marshals in Philadelphia and the surrounding counties. The task force’s objective is to seek out and arrest violent crime fugitives. Membership agencies include the Philadelphia Police Department, Pennsylvania State Parole Officers, Pennsylvania State Police, Pennsylvania Attorney General Agents, Immigration Customs Enforcement, Chester Police Department, Bucks County Sheriffs, and Delaware County Sheriffs.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pacific Partnership 2025 Conducts Mission Stop in Suva, Fiji, June 9, 2025 [Image 11 of 13]

    Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)

    Issued by: on

    SUVA, Fiji (June 9, 2025) U.S. Army soldiers, assigned to 72nd Medical Detachment Veterinary Service Support, and veterinarians from the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) Fiji animal hospital conduct spay surgery on dogs and cats during a spay and neuter clinic, as part of Pacific Partnership 2025, in Suva, Fiji, June 9, 2025. Now in its 21st iteration, the Pacific Partnership series is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster management preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific. Pacific Partnership works collaboratively with host and partner nations to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase security and stability in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships in the Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Moises Sandoval/Released)

    Date Taken: 06.09.2025
    Date Posted: 06.11.2025 18:07
    Photo ID: 9104616
    VIRIN: 250609-N-ED646-3656
    Resolution: 8640×5760
    Size: 8.45 MB
    Location: SUVA, FJ
    Web Views: 2
    Downloads: 0

    PUBLIC DOMAIN  

    This work, Pacific Partnership 2025 Conducts Mission Stop in Suva, Fiji, June 9, 2025 [Image 13 of 13], by PO2 Moises Sandoval, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyden, Colleagues Reintroduce Bill to Protect Reproductive and Sexual Health Data

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)

    June 11, 2025

    Washington D.C.— U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., said today he has joined colleagues to reintroduce the landmark My Body, My Data Act, which would create a new national standard to protect reproductive and sexual health data. 

    “Anti-abortion Republicans are restricting abortion state-by-state, and they’re not going to stop until they get a national abortion ban,” Wyden said. “The way MAGA prosecutors and politicians enforce their cruel assault on women’s rights is by going after their privacy and abusing their personal data to track down and punish women for their personal reproductive health choices. Congress has to draw a line. I’m proud to partner with Rep. Jacobs and Sen. Hirono on the My Body, My Data Act to set the toughest protections ever for reproductive health data.”

    The weaponization of private reproductive and sexual health data has increased in recent years, especially since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade. In 2017, police used web searches and text messages to charge Latice Fisher with second-degree murder after a stillbirth at home. Facebook messages were also a key piece of evidence in an abortion-related investigation of a Nebraska mother and daughter in 2022. A data broker shared cell phone and geo-location data with an anti-abortion political group that then dispensed disinformation about reproductive health to people who visited 600 abortion clinics in 48 states. Earlier this year, police investigated a Pennsylvania mother and daughter after receiving text messages about her pregnancy.

    Specifically, the My Body, My Data Act would:

    • Limit the personal reproductive and sexual health data that can be collected, retained, used, or disclosed to only what is needed to deliver a product or service.
    • Protect personal data collected by entities not currently covered under HIPAA, including data collected by apps, cell phones, and search engines.
    • Require regulated entities to develop and share a privacy policy outlining how they collect, retain, use, and disclose personal reproductive health information.
    • Direct the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to enforce the law and to develop rules to implement the statute.
    • Create a private right of action to allow individuals to hold regulated entities accountable for violations. 
    • Provide additional consumer protections, including the right of an individual to access, delete, or correct their personal data if they choose to.

    In addition to Wyden, the legislation was led by U.S. Senator Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii., and U.S. Representative Sara Jacobs, D-Calif. 

    The legislation is supported by Center for Democracy and Technology, Electronic Privacy Information Center, Electronic Frontier Foundation, National Partnership for Women & Families, Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Reproductive Freedom for All, Physicians for Reproductive Health, National Women’s Law Center, National Abortion Federation, Catholics for Choice, National Council for Jewish Women, Power to Decide, United for Reproductive & Gender Equity, Indivisible, Guttmacher, and National Network of Abortion Funds, All* Above All.

    “Everyone deserves the freedom to make personal decisions about their bodies, lives, and health without the fear of surveillance or criminalization. The ‘My Body, My Data Act’ is a critical step toward protecting our most private health information—including abortion and pregnancy care—from being weaponized against us. We’re grateful to Representative Jacobs and Senator Hirono for their leadership in introducing this bold federal action. We are committed to working with them to fight back as Trump and Republicans continue to attack our fundamental freedoms,” said Mini Timmaraju, CEO and President of Reproductive Freedom for All.

    “In a chaotic and dangerous post-Roe landscape, no one seeking an abortion should have to fear that their health information will be used to criminalize them,” said Jocelyn Frye, President of National Partnership for Women & Families. “Many women, including many women of color and those with low incomes, already face over-surveillance and heightened barriers to accessing abortion care. This bill is an important step in protecting data privacy surrounding abortion care, and we thank Rep. Jacobs and Senators Hirono and Wyden for their leadership on this issue.”

    “Americans’ health data is constantly used in ways that they do not expect. The My Body, My Data Act protects the privacy and safety of people seeking reproductive care but putting strict limits on when reproductive and sexual health information can be collected and how it can be used. Health care and privacy go hand in hand, and EPIC commends Rep. Jacobs for introducing this important bill,” said Caitriona Fitzgerald, Deputy Director, Electronic Privacy Information Center (EPIC).

    “It’s been nearly three years since the Supreme Court decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, and we continue to see states hostile to reproductive rights seeking access to health data. The My Body My Data Act contains critical privacy protections that limit the data companies collect and retain about their customers while providing people clear ways to access and delete their health data when they want. When companies don’t collect and keep people’s health data, they won’t have anything to turn over if folks come asking for it,” said Andrew Crawford, Senior Counsel, Center for Democracy & Technology.

    “As a physician, I know how critical it is for the personal information of the patients I care for to be protected. Too often, data related to reproductive health care is used to target and criminalize people seeking essential care. I am thankful to Senators Wyden and Hirono and Representative Jacobs for introducing the My Body, My Data Act of 2025. Ensuring the health and well-being of patients includes protecting the privacy of personal reproductive health information,” said Dr. Ghazaleh Moayedi, Physicians for Reproductive Health Board Chair and OB/GYN in Texas. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyden, Colleagues Introduce Class Act to give Students Cheated by For-Profit Colleges Their Day in Court

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)

    June 11, 2025

    Washington D.C.—U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., said today he has joined colleagues to reintroduce legislation designed to strengthen students’ ability to hold for-profit colleges accountable in court for their misconduct.  

    The Court Legal Access and Student Support (CLASS) Act would enhance accountability for for-profit colleges and safeguard taxpayer dollars by prohibiting an institution of higher education from receiving Title IV federal student aid if the school’s enrollment agreement requires mandatory arbitration or otherwise restricts students’ ability to pursue claims against the school in court.

    “For-profit colleges must be held accountable for misleading people working hard to get an education, and no student should have to sign a non-disclosure agreement to secure thateducation,” Wyden said. “Students are already dealing with the skyrocketing costs of college across the country, and I am committed to support students to reduce these costs and empower them to hold bad-actors accountable with legislation like the CLASS Act.”.

    Specifically, the CLASS Act would enhance the accountability of for-profit colleges and safeguard taxpayer dollars by:

    • Prohibiting an institution of higher education from receiving federal student aid if the school’s enrollment agreement requires mandatory arbitration or restricts students’ ability to pursue claims against the school in court;
    • Ensuring  the Federal Arbitration Act, which governs the enforcement of arbitration proceedings, would not apply to student enrollment agreements;
    • Taking effect one year after enactment to allow schools to make any necessary changes; and
    • Exempting legitimate non-profit colleges and universities because these institutions do not include mandatory arbitration clauses in their enrollment agreements.  The CLASS Act thus squarely focuses on schools that might seek to profit off of students while hiding from accountability in a court of law.

    The legislation was led by U.S. Senator Dick Durbin, D-Ill., and U.S. Representative Maxine Waters, D-Calif. Along with Wyden, the CLASS Act is cosponsored by Senators Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., Jack Reed, D-R.I., Edward J. Markey, D-Mass., Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii, John Fetterman, D-Pa., Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I., Cory Booker, D-N.J., Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., and Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y. 

    The bill has earned the endorsement of Consumer Action; The Institute for College Access and Success; National Consumer Law Center (on behalf of its low income clients); National Association for College Admission Counseling; Veterans Education Success; National Association of Consumer Advocates; American Association for Justice; Center for Justice and Democracy; Woodstock Institute; Public Justice; Earthjustice; Public Citizen; The National Employment Lawyers Association; Americans for Financial Reform; National Consumers League; Consumer Federation of America; Young Invincibles; and Center for Responsible Lending.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to study looking at the association between prolonged use of progestogen contraceptive pill (desogestrel) and risk of brain tumour

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A study published in The BMJ looks at the use of the progesterone contraceptive pill and brain tumour risk. 

    Dr Karen Noble, Director of Research, Policy and Innovation at Brain Tumour Research, said:

    “This study adds to the growing body of evidence around hormone-related risk factors for brain tumours. While it identifies a small increased risk of intracranial meningioma associated with long-term use of desogestrel oral contraceptives, it’s vital to stress that this is a correlation, not proof of causation. Most women taking desogestrel will not develop a brain tumour, and the overall risk remains low. However, the findings do reinforce the critical importance of sustained investment in research into brain tumours, which historically has received just 1% of the national spend on cancer research since records began in 2002.”

    Dr Mangesh Thorat, Honorary Reader in Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Queen Mary University of London and Consultant Breast Surgeon, Homerton University Hospital, said:

    “This large study using French national database is second in the series of studies by the same group, addressing some of the limitations of their previous study published last year. It shows association between taking a certain progestogen (desogestrel) continuously for more than five years and meningioma risk, however, the magnitude of increase in the risk is small, and short-term use is not associated with increased risk and that the excess risk ceases to exist once the use is stopped for more than a year. These results however do not give any reasons for women using progestogens to panic.”

    What are progestogens?

    “Progestogens are medicinal analogues of naturally produced female hormone progesterone. These are a common component of contraceptive agents, hormone replacement therapy and other hormonal treatments. Two important things to know about these are: first, effects of different formulations vary sometimes substantially and second, the effect of individual drug varies on different organs within our body. Therefore, it is important to consider which specific drug is being used by an individual.”

    What is meningioma?

    “Meningioma is a tumour of coverings of our brain and more than 90% of these are not cancerous. This is a rare tumour, for example, breast cancer is 10-times more common and it is even rarer in young individuals. A proportion of these need to be treated surgically as they increase pressure on the brain and / or nerves. The most common symptoms are persistent headache, and feeling sick all the time often with drowsiness.”

    How much of the risk is attributable to these drugs?

    “Recent studies and a similar study by the same group last year showed that 6 out of more than a dozen progestogen formulations to be associated with significant increase in the risk of developing meningioma. However, these 6 drugs put together account for just over 10% of all meningiomas in women. This study shows that 1 additional drug to be associated with meningioma risk, but the magnitude of increase in the risk is much smaller. In other words, a vast majority of meningioma would occur without use of such drugs.

    “Importantly, this study also shows that many progestogens, for example commonly used tablets like Microgynon or the morning after pill to be completely safe, without any increase in the risk of meningioma.”

    What should individuals using progestogens do?

    “Talk to your healthcare provider regarding the drug you are using. If it is associated with an increased risk of meningioma, this can be changed to a safer alternative. There is no reason to panic as the risk is very small and even in those who developed meningioma, stopping the specific drug has shown to cause regression in the size of meningioma.”

    More research is needed:

    “Although this is a large study, all studies have limitations. This study could not investigate the over-the-counter use of contraceptives. Furthermore, the study cannot provide information on the formulations not commonly used in France but used in other countries. This therefore underscores the need for further research using similar databases in other nations.”

    ‘Oral contraceptives with progestogens desogestrel or levonorgestrel and risk of intracranial meningioma: national case-control study’ by Noémie Roland et al. was published in The BMJ at 23:30 hours UK time Wednesday 11 June 2025.

    DOI: 10.1136/bmj-2024-083981

    Declared interests

    Dr Mangesh Thorat: No conflicts.

    For all other experts, no reply to our request for DOIs was received.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Boozman, Grassley Introduce the Combating Violent and Dangerous Crime Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas – John Boozman

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA) led nine of their Republican colleagues in introducing the Combating Violent and Dangerous Crime Act, legislation to strengthen violent crime statutes, resolve conflicting court decisions by clarifying penalties for violent offenses like carjacking, robbery and kidnapping, and help deter future violent crimes.

    “Soft-on-crime policies have failed to ensure our justice system and law enforcement at all levels have the necessary authorities and tools to maintain order and protect communities from dangerous criminals,” said Boozman. “I am proud to join Senator Grassley and my colleagues to ensure violent offenders are held accountable under the law.”

    “Under the Biden-Harris administration, our nation saw a massive spike in violent crime. As the Trump administration works to clean up the previous administration’s mess, Congress has a duty to resolve any legal ambiguities that may weaken our ability to hold criminals fully accountable,” Grassley said. “Our bill includes several modest, but meaningful, reforms to tamp down on future crime and ensure justice is served.”

    The Combating Violent and Dangerous Crime Act addresses ambiguity and conflicting applications of existing law by clarifying congressional intent. Specifically, the bill would:  

    • Resolve conflicting circuit court decisions that have resulted in a higher burden to charge violent offenses; 
    • Clarify that an attempt or conspiracy to commit an offence involving physical force meets the legal definition of a violent crime; 
    • Increase the statutory maximum penalty for carjacking and remove a duplicative intent requirement needed to charge a carjacking offense;
    • Clarify that attempted bank robbery and conspiracy to commit bank robbery are punishable under the current bank robbery statute; 
    • Outlaw the marketing of candy-flavored drugs including marijuana and fentanyl to minors; and 
    • Establish a new category of violent kidnapping offenses, allowing for greater penalties for violent kidnapping. 

    Along with Boozman and Grassley, the bill is cosponsored by Senators Mike Crapo (R-ID), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), James Lankford (R-OK), Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Susan Collins (R-ME), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Jim Risch (R-ID). 

    The bill text is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Weekend lane closures expected to cause heavy traffic on Highway 1 at 264th

    Drivers are advised to plan for heavy traffic this weekend along Highway 1 near 56th Avenue and 264th Street.

    Lane closures will take place on 56th Avenue and 264th Street on the south side of the interchange from 7 p.m. on Friday, June 13, 2025, until 5:30 a.m. on Monday, June 16. Traffic will merge to single lanes and use single-lane-alternating traffic patterns at times.

    The lane closures are needed for the continued construction of the 264th Street interchange, advancing the widening of Highway 1 through the Fraser Valley. Access to local businesses will not be affected by the work.

    To avoid anticipated heavy congestion and travel delays, drivers are encouraged to use alternative routes during the closure window and are reminded to obey all signage and posted speed limits. Patience is appreciated while this critical work is underway.

    Learn More:

    For the most up-to-date traffic information, visit https://www.drivebc.ca/.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Plan your visit to Pipi7íyekw/Joffre Lakes Park

    People can now plan their mid-summer hiking and backcountry camping trips at Pipi7íyekw/Joffre Lakes Park.

    At 7 a.m. (Pacific time) on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, backcountry camping reservations will open at Upper Joffre Lake campground for arrivals starting June 28, and will be required throughout July and August. The backcountry campground is the only place people can camp in the park and is reached by a moderate-to-challenging 4.5-kilometre hike from the parking lot. Reservations can be made online: https://camping.bcparks.ca/

    The park will remain open for visitors throughout July and August. Day-use passes are required for adults and youth older than 12 to visit the park and can be reserved online at 7 a.m., two days before a planned visit: https://reserve.bcparks.ca/dayuse/

    The passes have been seasonally required at the park since 2021 to ensure adequate and safe parking, and to provide a more enjoyable, less crowded experience. People with valid camping permits do not require a day-use pass during their stay in the park.

    From June 13-27, the park will be closed to the general public so it can recover from years of overuse. Members of the Líl̓wat Nation and N’Quatqua will use this time to reconnect with their land and engage in cultural practices and spiritual activities in private. Day-use passes will be temporarily unavailable during this time.

    In spring 2024, a mutual agreement was reached to pursue a seasonal closure of approximately 60 days. Discussions about the final temporary closure dates for the season are ongoing. The dates will be publicly announced as soon as they are available.

    Pipi7íyekw/Joffre Lakes Park is collaboratively managed with the Líl̓wat Nation and N’Quatqua, with the primary goal of maintaining the park’s natural state. Since 2018, BC Parks, Líl̓wat Nation and N’Quatqua have collaborated through a technical working group to implement the joint Pipi7íyekw/Joffre Lakes Park Visitor Use Management Strategy. A key objective of the strategy includes protecting environmentally sensitive areas, mitigating impacts on vegetation and wildlife, and supporting the Líl̓wat Nation and N’Quatqua to continue their cultural practices, all of which are enabled through temporary park closures.

    Before visiting the park, check the park web page for updates about day-use passes and camping reservation dates.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Proposed amendments to Agricultural Compounds and Veterinary Medicines (Exemptions and Prohibited Substances) Regulations 2011

    Source: NZ Ministry for Primary Industries

    Have your say

    New Zealand Food Safety has identified, and is seeking feedback on, 4 broad categories of amendments to the Agricultural Compounds and Veterinary Medicines (Exemptions and Prohibited Substances) Regulations 2011.

    The proposed changes are intended to:

    • improve accessibility of the regulations
    • create greater certainty and confidence in the regulations
    • reduce compliance and operational costs
    • improve fairness by providing a more flexible and effective exemption regime.

    Summary of the proposed changes

    We’re proposing changes to regulations 3 to 15 and changes to schedules 1 and 2. These include:

    • amending some specific regulations
    • adding new categories of compounds exempt from registration. These have a risk profile that indicates they do not require a higher level of regulatory oversight
    • amending several existing exemptions in Schedule 2. Some amendments are to rationalise entries and conditions to improve consistency and provide new consolidated groupings. Other amendments are proposed to better align with re-assessed risk profiles for the compound groups
    • moving lists of substances restricted from use as exempted agricultural compounds or as ingredients in exempted agricultural compounds in food-producing animals from guidelines to the ACVM regulations. This proposed amendment aims to satisfy requirements for exports to Europe and some other trading partners.

    Full details about the proposed changes and the rationale are in the consultation document.

    Submissions close at 5pm on 3 August 2025.

    Consultation document

    Proposed amendments to agricultural compounds and veterinary medicines regulations [PDF, 950 KB]

    Related document: the existing regulations

    Agricultural Compounds and Veterinary Medicines (Exemptions and Prohibited Substances) Regulations 2011

    Making your submission

    Email your feedback on the consultation document by 5pm on 3 August 2025 to ACVMconsultations2025@mpi.govt.nz

    While we prefer email, you can send your submission by post to:

    Consultation: ACVM Regulations
    Ministry for Primary Industries
    PO Box 2526
    Wellington 6104.

    What to include

    Make sure you tell us in your submission:

    • the title of the consultation document (Proposed amendments to ACVM regulations)
    • your name and title
    • your organisation’s name (if you are submitting on behalf of an organisation, and whether your submission represents the whole organisation or a section of it)
    • your contact details (such as phone number, address, and email).

    Background information about exemptions and prohibited substances

    The Agricultural Compounds and Veterinary Medicines Act 1997 prescribes a product registration process for agricultural compounds, which includes veterinary medicines, horticultural chemicals, and other compounds used in the management of plants and animals.

    The Act also enables an exemption from registration for certain classes of agricultural compounds provided they meet the requirements of the ACVM regulations.

    The ACVM regulations also contain a list of substances that cannot be supplied as agricultural compounds in New Zealand. The proposed amendments will not alter this list.

    Submissions are public information

    Note that all, part, or a summary of your submission may be published on this website. Most often this happens when we issue a document that reviews the submissions received.

    People can also ask for copies of submissions under the Official Information Act 1982 (OIA). The OIA says we must make the content of submissions available unless we have good reason for withholding it. Those reasons are detailed in sections 6 and 9 of the OIA.

    If you think there are grounds to withhold specific information from publication, make this clear in your submission or contact us. Reasons may include that it discloses commercially sensitive or personal information. However, any decision MPI makes to withhold details can be reviewed by the Ombudsman, who may direct us to release it.

    Official Information Act 1982 – NZ Legislation

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Further Extension of Form PF Amendments Compliance Date

    Source: Securities and Exchange Commission

    The Securities and Exchange Commission, together with the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission, today voted to extend the compliance date until Oct. 1, 2025, for the amendments to Form PF that were adopted on Feb. 8, 2024. The compliance date for these amendments was originally March 12, 2025, but was previously extended to June 12, 2025.

    Form PF is the confidential reporting form for certain SEC-registered investment advisers to private funds, including those that also are registered with the CFTC as commodity pool operators or commodity trading advisers. This extension will provide more time for filers to program and test for compliance with these amendments.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Armstrong: Housing funds to move forward after Attorney General finds line-item vetoed bill is valid

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    Gov. Kelly Armstrong today said $35 million in housing funds will be disbursed as approved by the state Legislature after a North Dakota Attorney General’s opinion found that the governor’s written objections in a line-item veto of Senate Bill 2014 clearly did not target the housing funds.

    In an opinion released today, Attorney General Drew Wrigley stated that the governor’s written statement of his objections to SB 2014 is what controls the extent of the line-item veto – not a mismarked version of the bill provided as a visual aid.

    “The written veto message is the controlling document because it clearly states our objection to the bill as required by the North Dakota Constitution. There was no ambiguity in our veto message, which was printed in the official Legislative Journal and is what lawmakers should rely upon when interpreting a veto,” Armstrong said. “We appreciate the Attorney General’s determination, which clarifies the matter, avoids the cost of a special session and nullifies the flawed interpretation that initially blew this up into something much bigger than it needed to be. We always said we would honor what the Attorney General found, and we appreciate his assistance.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Armstrong applauds EPA proposal to repeal burdensome Biden-era power plant regulations

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    Gov. Kelly Armstrong issued the following statement today after the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced its proposal to repeal two burdensome Biden-era power plant regulations known as “Clean Power Plan 2.0” and Mercury and Air Toxic Standards (MATS).

    The announcement comes one month after Armstrong and EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin met in Washington, D.C., discussing the need to repeal the Biden administration’s onerous and overreaching rules on power plants, especially those designed to phase out coal-fired power plants like those in North Dakota that provide critical baseload generation.

    “This is what smart federal regulatory reform looks like,” Armstrong said. “It’s refreshing to finally have a regulatory agency that takes input from the people who produce what the world needs – and allows them to do it better than anyone else while protecting the environment. We thank Administrator Zeldin and the Trump administration for supporting common-sense regulation and unleashing U.S. energy production to hold down costs for consumers and strengthen national security.”

    North Dakota is currently participating in lawsuits against both the Clean Power Plan 2.0, which would effectively shut down existing coal-fired power plants by requiring them to curb greenhouse gas emissions by 90% by 2032, and the MATS rule, arguing it exceeds EPA’s statutory authority and threatens the U.S. power grid by forcing the premature closure of power plants.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: OP-ED: Greenpeace USA leadership pose critical questions during UN Oceans Conference

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    Turtle and fish over corals. © Lorenzo Moscia / Greenpeace

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (June 11, 2025) — President Trump is exacerbating our oceans crisis by signing several Executive Actions that prioritize corporate profit over environmental wellbeing. In the op-ed “Who Will Defend Our Oceans—the Last Global Commons?” published in Common Dreams, Greenpeace USA Interim Executive Director Sushma Raman and Greenpeace USA Oceans Campaign Director John Hocevar discuss solutions for how the international community can stop this dangerous rollback before it is too late.  These include:

    1. Ratifying the Global Ocean Treaty, the only legal tool that can establish marine protected areas in international waters outside of the Southern Ocean
    2. Voting to enact a moratorium on deep-sea mining
    3. Issuing a strong ministerial declaration on the Global Plastic Treaty, a commitment to cutting plastic production, ending single-use plastic, and prioritizing public health, environmental justice, and protection of our ocean

    Excerpts from the piece follow:

    Now is the moment to make it clear that the deep ocean, recognized by the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea as the common heritage of humankind, cannot be seized by those with the deepest pockets or the best-connected lobbyists.

    The next opportunity for bold action is fast approaching, with governments this week convening at the UN Ocean Conference in Nice, France. As the US retreats from leadership on ocean protection, the international community is poised to make decisions that could have lasting benefits or far-reaching consequences. 

    While the scale of the threat is daunting, our history reminds us that we are not powerless.

    This week’s UN Ocean Conference in Nice, France, and the critical UN meetings later this Summer, offer governments a crucial chance to protect the hard-won gains and reverse the damages that have been made. Whether they seize it will determine the future of the world’s largest—and most essential—commons.

    Read the full op-ed here.

    Sushma Raman is the Interim Executive Director of Greenpeace USA.
    John Hocevar is the Oceans Campaign Director of Greenpeace USA.

    Contact: Madison Carter, Greenpeace USA Senior Communications Specialist, [email protected]

    Greenpeace USA is part of a global network of independent campaigning organizations that use peaceful protest and creative communication to expose global environmental problems and promote solutions that are essential to a green and peaceful future. Greenpeace USA is committed to transforming the country’s unjust social, environmental, and economic systems from the ground up to address the climate crisis, advance racial justice, and build an economy that puts people first. Learn more at www.greenpeace.org/usa.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: GPUS decries Trump’s fascist response to LA protests

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    An anti-ICE protest broke out near a Justice Department building in Washington, D.C., over David Huerta’s detention. Huerta is the president of California’s Service Employees International Union (SEIU). © Tim Aubry / Greenpeace

    WASHINGTON, DC (June 11, 2025) – In response to the Trump Administration deploying the National Guard on protesters in Los Angeles and the recent detention of David Huerta, President of SEIU California and SEIU USWW, Greenpeace USA Democracy Campaign Director, Dr. Folabi Olagbaju said:

    “The Greenpeace movement was founded on the belief that peaceful protest is not only a right but a duty. We show up, we bear witness, we hold the line, and we record the truth when those in power try to rewrite it. Right now, the White House is deploying cruel and unjust authoritarian tactics in an attempt to justify unconscionable actions. This administration has made it clear: the only people who are allowed the right to free speech and protest are the people who agree with Trump. Greenpeace USA stands in solidarity with those resisting this unjust use of power – you can’t have climate justice without migrant justice.

    “The Trump administration’s decision to weaponize the federal government and U.S. military is an egregious escalation of their war on the Constitution and the right to protest. 

    “Greenpeace USA expresses our ongoing solidarity with protestors like President Huerta and we echo the SEIU’s demands to release all those being unjustly detained. These terrifying raids on our communities must end. The Trump administration must immediately drop all charges against Huerta and ensure immigration proceedings follow the due process promised to everyone in this country under the Constitution. 

    “What happened to President Huerta is about more than just a single labor leader. What’s happening in America is no longer a mere threat, but a promise: if you stand up to this abuse of power, you will be a target. That is fascism, not democracy. We are not afraid and we will not back down.”  #TimetoResist.

    Contact: Madison Carter, Greenpeace USA Senior Communications Specialist, [email protected]

    Greenpeace USA is part of a global network of independent campaigning organizations that use peaceful protest and creative communication to expose global environmental problems and promote solutions that are essential to a green and peaceful future. Greenpeace USA is committed to transforming the country’s unjust social, environmental, and economic systems from the ground up to address the climate crisis, advance racial justice, and build an economy that puts people first. Learn more at www.greenpeace.org/usa.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warnock, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Close Tax Loophole for Big Pharma

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

    Today, Senator Reverend Warnock introduced the Close the Round-Tripping Loophole Act, to close a tax loophole to make it harder for pharmaceutical companies to move profits to offshore accounts and pay lower taxes on American-sold products 

    Senator Reverend Warnock: “We should not be giving tax breaks to major drug companies that exploit our laws to hide their profits”

    Senator Wyden: “This kind of loophole is what makes middle-class workers whose taxes come out of every paycheck feel like they’re getting ripped off, and the fact is, they’re right” 

    Senator Warner: “This bill puts a stop to one of the worst abuses in the tax code and restores some much-needed fairness for middle class families”

    Senator Welch: “I’m proud to join my colleagues on this legislation to close this loophole and rein in corporate greed”

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Finance Committee Ranking Member Ron Wyden (D-OR), Mark Warner (D-VA), and Peter Welch (D-VT) introduced the Close the Round-Tripping Loophole Act, which closes a tax loophole regularly used by pharmaceutical companies to move profits offshore and pay significantly lower corporate tax rates. The corporate tax loophole was blessed by Washington Republicans and signed into law by President Trump in the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. 

    “We should not be giving tax breaks to major drug companies that exploit our laws to hide their profits,” said Senator Warnock. “This critical legislation provides a commonsense fix that helps lower our deficit while forcing Big Pharma to pay their fair share. I urge my colleagues to pass this bill as quickly as possible.”

    “Big, profitable multinationals have been abusing this loophole for many years with the blessing of Trump and Republicans, who are now gearing up to give those corporations even bigger tax breaks in their massive budget bill,” said Senator Wyden. “I’ve spent years investigating Big Pharma’s many tax schemes, and round-tripping is one of their go-to dodges. This kind of loophole is what makes middle-class workers whose taxes come out of every paycheck feel like they’re getting ripped off, and the fact is, they’re right.”

    “For too long, American corporations have been able to exploit loopholes that let them shift profits overseas and avoid paying their fair share in taxes – leaving hardworking Americans to pick up the tab,” Senator Warner said. “This bill puts a stop to one of the worst abuses in the tax code and restores some much-needed fairness for middle class families.”

    “The ‘round-tripping’ loophole is just another way large corporations and Big Pharma have schemed to rip-off taxpayers and avoid paying their fair share. They’ve been getting away with this for years now—enough’s enough,” said Senator Welch. “I’m proud to join my colleagues on this legislation to close this loophole and rein in corporate greed.”

    The Close the Round-Tripping Loophole Act closes a loophole that large corporations, especially pharmaceutical companies, have used to shift their profits offshore. This legislation would help ensure that companies pay U.S. corporate taxes on profits made in the United States by making it harder for corporations to shift this income to low-tax countries. No small businesses would be subject to these provisions. The proposal would only apply to corporations that average at least $100 million in annual revenue.

    The introduction of the Close the Round-Tripping Loophole Act is Senator Warnock’s most recent effort to combat corporate greed and hold big pharmaceutical companies accountable. In August 2022, Senator Warnock introduced legislation to combat corporate greed and incentivize companies to lower prices at the pump for Georgians by raising taxes on oil and gas companies that utilized greedy practices. In February 2022, Senator Warnock successfully pushed to cap the cost of insulin and prescription drugs for seniors on Medicare.

    Read the Close the Round-Tripping Loophole Act HERE

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warnock Fires Up Medicaid Advocates, Fights to Protect Health Care Access for 16 Million Americans 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

    Warnock Fires Up Medicaid Advocates, Fights to Protect Health Care Access for 16 Million Americans 

    Senator Reverend Warnock inspired a passionate crowd at the “Save Medicaid”  rally

    The current version of the Republican tax bill will kick 16 million Americans off their health care, and raise the cost of care for everyone

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) fired up health care advocates from across the country at the “Save Medicaid Rally” underscoring the dangers of cuts to Medicaid proposed in the Washington Republicans’ tax bill. The rally was organized by Popular Democracy in coordination with American Disabled for Attendant Programs Today (ADAPT), Caring Across Generations, Planned Parenthood, SEIU, ACLU, and other national organizations.

    The Senator’s remarks come as the Senate is currently deliberating over Washington Republicans’ One Big Beautiful Bill Act, President Trump’s tax bill that provides billions in tax breaks for billionaires by cutting health care for 16 million Americans.

    “What he [President Trump] wants to do is unpopular. I don’t blame him for wanting to change the subject. He wants to cut $800 billion out of Medicaid, kick people off of coverage, disabled people, children, the working class. He wants to kick all of them off of health care. He wants to cut $300 billion out of SNAP just to give people like Elon Musk a tax cut,” said Senator Warnock during the rally. “No wonder he’s trying to change the subject, but we’re going to hold them accountable, and we will not be distracted. We will not be distracted, and we will not be divided.”

    Senator Warnock has long championed efforts to expand affordable health care access, starting with his advocacy to close the health care coverage gap in Georgia. Most recently, Senator Warnock published a newreport, “Healthy People, Healthy Economy” finding that placing bureaucratic red tape between working people and their health care will lead to hospital closures, job loss, and economic slowdown. In addition to pushing for solutions to close the coverage gap, Senator Warnock led a delegation of Georgia lawmakers in urging the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to provide tools to Medicaid non-expansion states like Georgia to help them protect health care access for Medicaid enrollees who lose eligibility after the end of the public health emergency declaration. Senator Warnock also adamantly opposed Dr. Mehmet Oz’s consideration to lead the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), for his lack of commitment to protecting Medicaid services.

    Senator Warnock’s remarks during the Save Medicaid Rally are HERE and below:

    “The question is: Who are we? And what do we want in a moment like this? I don’t know about you, but I want a country and a vision that embraces all of us.”

    “So I’m proud to be here with you in this moral moment. I represent the people of Georgia in the United States Senate. I’m deeply honored that they would send me. You know, it’s a real honor for the people of your state to say that, since we care about our children and we want the best for them. We care about our mothers and our fathers as they deal with the blessings and the burdens of aging, because we believe that everybody ought to have health care and every child ought to have a chance. Since all of us can’t go to Washington, D.C., we’re going to send you. We’re going to trust that in rooms of power, you will remember who sent you there. You will remember your covenant that you have with the people that you represent. I think about that every single day, but every time I come and speak at a rally like this, I am reminded that long before I came to the Senate, long before I represented Georgia in these halls of Congress, the last time the Trump administration was pushing forward a reconciliation bill, the year was 2017, and I was here not as a senator. I was here as an agitator.”

    “In 2017, they were focused on cutting health care. They wanted to kick people off of their health care. Y’all remember that? They were trying to repeal the Affordable Care Act. They said, repeal and replace, but they didn’t have anything to replace it with. And I was here that day as an activist, pastor. Pastor of Ebenezer Baptist Church, where I still serve. And we were gathered in the rotunda of the Capitol, praying and singing. [There] were clergy from various faith traditions all across our country, and the Capitol police came and they said, pastors, ‘if you don’t disperse because you can’t sing and pray in this rotunda over here, we’re going to have to arrest you.’ What they didn’t understand is that I had already been arrested. My mind and my heart and my imagination had been arrested by this idea that we are much better than this and that the wealthiest country on the planet can afford to provide basic health care to all of its citizens.”

    “So they arrested me that day, and I thought it was a small price to pay, but in the years since, the people of Georgia have seen fit to send this guy who was used to fighting from the outside to work on the inside, and that’s what our fight has to be about y’all. It has to be an inside fight and an outside fight. Are you ready to make it happen?! We got to fight on the inside, and we got to fight on the outside.”

    “Because I live in Atlanta, I get to walk around and rub shoulders with giants all the time. I was John Lewis’ pastor. Xernona Clayton, another lieutenant of the Movement, who Dr. King – she’s short – he used to call her ‘Big’ she’s a member of my church. Dr King’s sister, up until two years ago when she passed away, she was always sitting on the second row while I was preaching. Can you imagine preaching in front of Martin Luther King Jr.’s sister every Sunday? But Andrew Young, who’s in his 90s, is still with us. Let’s hear for Andy Young. But I want you to hear me today. Andy Young tells me this great story. He says that after they passed the Civil Rights law of 1964, Dr. King went to see the President, and he didn’t go to the President just to say, thank you for passing the Civil Rights bill. He went to the President to say, ‘Now what we really need right now is a voting rights bill. My people are not able to vote in the South.’ And so LBJ said, ‘Martin, I understand what you’re saying, but I can’t do that right now. I had to expend so much political capital just to get that Civil Rights bill over the finish line.’ He said, ‘I don’t have the power to do that right now. So, they left the White House. The staff was feeling all demoralized and dejected, Andy Young among them, they said, ‘Doc, what are we going to do? The President says he doesn’t have the power.’ And Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, with a shrug, said, ‘Well, if the President doesn’t have the power, I guess we’re going to have to go and find him some, we’re going to have to go and give the President the power that he needs to do what needs to be done.’ And that’s why they went to Selma. Selma was the answer on the outside for what they weren’t able to do on the inside.”

    “Do you understand what I’m trying to tell you? I’m trying to tell you that I need you on the streets while I’m fighting in the suites, you have to create the context for change. And hear me, and I know you all know this, but you’ve got to spread the word. You have to do it through peaceful means of protest. Otherwise, you lose your moral credibility, you lose your voice. You cannot allow yourself to look like that which you deplore.”

    “Isn’t it a sad irony that Donald Trump is talking about he may have to invoke the insurrection clause? Imagine that the insurrectionist President wants to invoke the insurrection clause, but we cannot allow ourselves to look like him, because he is trying to divide us. He is using our military, men and women, and service members as pawns in a sad and cynical political game. He does not respect the military. How many veterans do we have out here? Raise your hand. I know we got folks who serve. Give our veterans a great big round of applause. Donald Trump does not respect our service members. He calls them suckers. He calls them losers, and now he wants to use them in his sad and cynical political game. He wants them to show up on the streets in war gear because he’s trying to convince American citizens that we are at war with one another. Well, I’ve got news for Donald Trump. We are not at war with other American citizens. We are at war against bigotry. We are at war against xenophobia. We are at war against a sad policy that would take food out of the mouths of hungry children in order to give a tax cut to billionaires. That’s what we’re fighting against.”

    “Are you ready to stand up in these streets?!”

    “Are you ready to fight for health care?!”

    Are you ready to fight for human dignity?!”

    “We need you in this moment, and so tell our young sisters and brothers, […] I’m serious, tell our young activists that Donald Trump wants nothing more than to be able to call martial law. He wants the story to be about police cars burning. Don’t burn police cars. We need law enforcement every now and then; we’ve got to challenge them, but we need law enforcement. We must not become like him. Do you understand what I’m saying? Because he wants to change the subject, and I don’t blame him. What he wants to do is unpopular. I don’t blame him for wanting to change the subject. He wants to cut $800 billion out of Medicaid, kick people off of coverage, disabled people, children, the working class. He wants to kick all of them off of health care. He wants to cut $300 billion out of SNAP just to give people like Elon Musk a tax cut. No wonder he’s trying to change the subject, but we’re going to hold them accountable, and we will not be distracted. We will not be distracted, and we will not be divided.”

    “We’re focused, right!?”

    “We’re ready, right?!”

    “We know the work that is in front of us, and we know that it’s not about the people in power. It’s about the power that’s in the people. So, stand up today and stand up tomorrow and stand up the next day and stand up the next month, and keep on standing until every child has a chance and every American has health care and we push toward a greater future. God bless everyone.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: The Briefing Room | Global Gender Gap Report 2025

    Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)

    How long will it take to achieve global gender parity? At the current pace: 123 years.

    In this episode of The Briefing Room, leaders from the World Economic Forum, LinkedIn and the World Bank come together to explore the findings from the Global Gender Gap Report 2025 — the definitive benchmark tracking gender equality across 148 economies.
    Hosted by Stephanie Holmes, Head of Public Engagement at the Forum, the discussion features Saadia Zahidi, Managing Director at the World Economic Forum; Sue Duke, Head of Global Public Policy at LinkedIn; and Norman Loayza, Director of the Global Indicators Group at the World Bank.

    The conversation examines this year’s parity score and why, despite some progress, the world remains generations away from full gender equality. It explores the persistent gaps in women’s political and economic participation, the role of smart policy over national wealth in driving change, and the growing economic imperative to accelerate progress. The panel also reflects on what countries can learn from one another and how gender parity is becoming central to long-term growth and resilience.

    Access the full Global Gender Gap 2025 report and explore the data here:
    https://www.weforum.org/stories/2025/06/global-gender-gap-report-2025-key-findings

    Subscribe for more insights from global leaders on the issues shaping our world.

    The World Economic Forum is the International Organization for Public-Private Cooperation. The Forum engages the foremost political, business, cultural and other leaders of society to shape global, regional and industry agendas. We believe that progress happens by bringing together people from all walks of life who have the drive and the influence to make positive change.

    World Economic Forum Website ► http://www.weforum.org/
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    #WorldEconomicForum #GenderGap25 #TheBriefingRoom #GenderEquality

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BkOEU4gTKrU

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Mann Advocates for U.S. Trade Promotion, Global Food Programs in House Agriculture Committee Hearing with Secretary Brooke Rollins

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Tracey Mann (Kansas, 1)

    [embedded content]

    CLICK HEREto download Rep. Mann’s questioning

    CLICK HERE to watch Rep. Mann’s exchange with Secretary Rollins on YouTube.

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01) questioned U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins during her first appearance before the House Agriculture Committee. During Rep. Mann’s questioning, he thanked Secretary Rollins and President Trump for their leadership and advocacy on behalf of American farmers, ranchers, and agricultural producers and highlighted the need for sound federal policy that promotes trade opportunities for American agriculture and recognizes international food aid as a tool for U.S. national security that supports domestic producers.

    Excerpts:

    [Opening Statement]:Secretary Rollins, thank you for being here today and thank you for your leadership in supporting farmers, ranchers, and ag producers across America. It was an honor to have you visit the Big First District of Kansas your first week on the job back in February, right after you were confirmed. We had the chance to participate in a roundtable discussion with ag producers, stakeholders, and toured Finney County Feeders and the Ponderosa Dairy. We even met with some local FFA students, which was a huge highlight of mine and I know it’s something that’s near and dear to your heart as well.  In one of my first meetings with President Trump, I distinctly remember him telling me of his love for American farmers and I appreciate that you share that passion. Over the past few months, you and President Trump have led the way in supporting rural America, and I look forward to continuing to work with you for the next four years as we Make Agriculture Great Again. 

    [On trade opportunities for Kansas farmers]: The One Big Beautiful Bill Act is a major step forward for the future of American agriculture. We were able to strengthen crop insurance, raise reference prices, and really help our producers. We were also able to include historic landmark investments in funding for trade promotion programs in the House version. After the last administration’s failure to act on expanding international markets, I have been really encouraged at your efforts to rebalance trade to support American farmers and ranchers. In particular, I appreciate that you will be traveling on a trade mission to India here in the next few weeks, where greater market access for crops like sorghum would be a game changer for Kansas producers and a clear win for both the United States and India. With this significant upgrade in trade promotion resources, can you share what you and Ambassador Greer will be pursuing to unlock opportunities for U.S. exports of commodities, like sorghum, as part of the ongoing trade negotiations with India?  

    Rollins: India is reflective to your point on sorghum and a lot of our row crops; there is just so much opportunity there. I think we have talked a lot this morning about national security—agriculture security is national security. A lot of that is opening markets with our friends like India and moving away from other markets that clearly are not aligned with us on a value-by-value basis. What I have found with Ambassador Greer, Secretary Lutnick, with Secretary Bessent, and the ultimate dealmaker, President Trump, is they are—we are—relentless. I think I have mentioned this a couple of times, but I think it is worth repeating: the few countries that have already visited me—everyone is so anxious to support this vision of opening up more American products and decreasing the tariffs while working on the non-tariff trade barriers. There is a lot more to come, and would love to work with you, though, as we are working with India and other countries specific to sorghum and other row crops. 

    Mann: I’d love to.I think India is a huge opportunity for sorghum and other commodities as well. Thank you for that.

    [On Food for Peace]:Earlier this year, I introduced legislation to move back to USDA a program that is not only dear to the people of Kansas, but also vital to our ag producers in the country. Food for Peace is a program that I have long supported, and it supports American agriculture while helping feed millions of people around the world. It was originally housed with the USDA when it was created over 70 years ago; a Kansan came up with the idea years ago. My bill would return it back to its roots, to return it home to the USDA, ensuring its long-term sustainability. I’m optimistic that Congress will soon act to codify this move, realigning Food for Peace with USDA where it began. If and when that transition takes place, can you commit that the Department will continue to fund and operate Food for Peace as robustly as it is currently being administered? I welcome any thoughts about Food for Peace.

    Rollins: Sure, and understanding that it is moving through the system and not wanting to get ahead of President Trump specifically, but we stand ready if that is the Congressional direction. We will work with you and your partners to ensure the continued sustainability and success, and make changes if necessary. 

    Mann: A great program, right? We are shipping commodities grown here in bags that say, “A free gift from the American people.” It is good for our farmers, good for our shippers, good for the mouths that receive it. 

    Four days after Secretary Rollins was confirmed as U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, Rep. Mann welcomed the Secretary to the Big First District to tour National Beef Packing Plant, High Plains Ponderosa Dairy, and Finney County Feeder in southwest Kansas. Rep. Mann has applauded Secretary Rollins’ decisive leadership on combatting the Highly-Pathogenic Aviation Influenza (HPAI). Following the decision to halt imports of Mexican livestock to protect livestock from the New World Screwworm, Rep. Mann commended the announcement from USDA.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News 06/11/2025 Blackburn Introduces Bill to End Taxpayer Funding for NPR and PBS

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) introduced the Free Americans from Ideological Reporting (FAIR) Act to stop federal taxpayer dollars from being sent to National Public Radio (NPR) and the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) after years of left-wing politically biased reporting under the guise of public broadcasting. Senator Blackburn has long pushed to ensure taxpayers are not footing the bill for biased media, and this bill would codify the executive order President Trump issued on May 1, 2025.

    “For far too long, American taxpayers have been forced to foot the bill for NPR and PBS while they push left-wing propaganda,” said Senator Blackburn. “The FAIR Act would cut off taxpayer funding to these partisan outlets, ensuring the American people aren’t forced to subsidize media that disparages conservatives and does the left’s bidding.”

    • NPR and PBS have benefited from taxpayer dollars for years while showing a consistent pattern of editorial bias, left-leaning political slant, and a lack of public accountability. NPR and PBS have violated the spirit of public broadcasting by forcing American taxpayers to fund content that misrepresents and excludes conservative viewpoints.
    • Last year, Senator Blackburn called for NPR to lose its funding after it suspended an editor who exposed the outlet’s partisan bias.
    • NPR’s CEO, Katherine Maher, testified before Congress where she admitted to botching coverage of Hunter Biden’s laptop and was grilled about the bias in the organization. Maher has also made statements calling President Trump a “fascist” and a “deranged racist sociopath.” PBS has pushed radical leftist gender ideology, releasing a movie called “Real Boy,” about a transgender teen.
    • President Trump issued an executive order on May 1, 2025, preventing federal dollars from funding NPR and PBS directly through the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) or indirectly through member station dues.

    THE FAIR ACT

    The FAIR Act would:

    • Permanently bar CPB from directly funding NPR and PBS;
    • Permanently bar CPB from indirectly funding NPR and PBS by ensuring that licensees and permittees of public radio and television stations, as well as any other recipients of CPB funds, do not use federal funds for NPR and PBS; and
    • Require the heads of all agencies to identify and terminate direct or indirect funding of NPR and PBS. 

    Click here for bill text

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyden Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Prevent Disastrous Wildfires

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ted Budd (R-North Carolina)

    Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C) and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), alongside U.S. Representatives Kim Schrier (D-Wash.) and David Valadao (R-Calif.), introduced the bicameral, bipartisan National Prescribed Fire Act of 2025 today. The legislation would support prescribed burns as an essential, cost-effective, science-based strategy to save lives and property, and address the harmful impacts of the recent wildfires across the nation.

    The National Prescribed Fire Act of 2025 would invest in hazardous fuels management to reduce the risk of blistering infernos by increasing the pace and scale of prescribed burns during cooler, wetter months. The legislation would grow a technically skilled prescribed fire workforce, provide new tools to aid smoke management, and prescribed fire permitting during winter months to reduce ruinous fires and smoke in the summer.

    “Following the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, thousands of acres of North Carolina forest were left destroyed. Now, these downed trees and piles of leaves represent a serious wildfire risk. By enabling the Forest Service to better conduct controlled burns of unchecked vegetation and scattered debris, we can protect our forests from catastrophic wildfires that may occur in the hottest months of the year. I am proud to join my colleague, Sen. Wyden, in introducing this common-sense, proactive approach to preventing disastrous wildfires,” said Senator Budd.

    “It’s no secret that rising temperatures and increased drought are leading to more and more wildfires, and firefighters are struggling to keep up as they put their lives on the line. We can no longer wait for disaster to strike before we address these fires destroying our neighborhoods and even taking people’s lives. I have heard firsthand from Oregonians who are sick and tired of inaction while the West burns. Our bipartisan, bicameral bill will tackle wildfires head-on by focusing on prevention to get the West out of the cycle of crisis and devastation every wildfire season,” said Senator Wyden.

    “Here in Washington State, we experience devastating wildfires every year. That’s why Congress must act now and address this issue. My bill, the National Prescribed Fire Act, expands the use of prescribed fire to lower the risk of catastrophic wildfires,” said Rep. Schrier.

    “In California, we understand the dangerous impact of wildfires—from damage to property to loss of life. By prescribing controlled burns to fire-adapted land in a safe and supervised way, we can limit dangerous fuel buildup and help reduce the threat of future wildfires. I’m proud to join my colleagues in re-introducing this bipartisan bill to protect our communities from wildfire risk,” said Rep. Valadao.

    Read the full bill text HERE.

    Background

    In 2024 alone, 8.9 million acres of land were burned by wildfires, one of the highest totals on record. As vegetation continues to grow, the Forest Service has been unable to address the current hazardous fuel backlog, which is exacerbated by the nation’s hot and dry fire seasons.

    Hurricane Helene resulted in 822,000 acres of downed timber and debris in North Carolina. As this debris dries out, it poses a significant risk of wildfire. According to the North Carolina Forest Service, there have been 4,193 wildfires burning more than 26,000 acres so far this year, on pace to dramatically exceed 2024’s totals of 4,588 fires burning over 15,000 acres.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján, Cortez Masto Lead Senate Spotlight Forum on Trump’s Tariffs and Their Impact on American Families

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)

    Costs, Chaos, Corruption: The Household Impact of Trump’s Tariffs

    Photos from the forum available here.

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), members of the Senate Committee on Finance, hosted a Spotlight Forum titled “Costs, Chaos, Corruption: The Household Impact of Trump’s Tariffs.” The forum examined how President Trump’s tariff policies fuel economic instability, raise costs on working families, harm the travel and tourism sector, and benefit special interests. The event featured testimony from policy experts, labor leaders, and small business owners directly impacted by the reckless tariffs. 

    “Across New Mexico and the country, Americans arefeeling pain from President Trump’s tariffs,” said Senator Luján. “Costs, Chaos, Corruption – those aren’t just buzzwords. They’re the reality for hardworking families in New Mexico and across America. President Trump’s tariffs are expected to cost American households $2,600 a year, a price that’s far too expensive for many Americans to afford. That’s why I partnered with Senator Cortez Masto to show the American people that President Trump’s tariffs are a tax on working families, a gut punch to small businesses, and a green light for corruption.”

    “President Trump’s tariffs and the haphazard manner in which he’s deploying them are causing real damage to real Americans,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “It’s now more important than ever that we give a microphone to those most impacted by Trump’s shortsighted economic policies. Senate Democrats will never stop fighting for working families.”

    During the forum, witnesses highlighted that President Trump’s reckless tariffs are hurting small businesses, the economy, and the American consumer.

    The forum featured testimony from:

    • Adam Posen, President, Peterson Institute for International Economics
    • Thea Lee, Economist and Former Deputy Undersecretary for International Labor Affairs
    • Preston Martin, CEO, Bicycle Technologies International
    • Steve Wright, President and General Manager of Jay Peak Resort 
    • Emma Jagoz, Owner of Moon Valley Farm

    “This is one of the worst ways to impose a tax and one of the most regressive ways to redistribute income from poorer to richer Americans and increase the tax burden on poorer people. In addition, because they cause uncertainty, provoke retaliation by other nations, and create opportunities for government corruption, tariffs have many destructive side effects that other forms of taxes do not,” said Adam Posen in his opening statement. 

    “The Trump tariffs bring all pain and no gain. In the short term, there will be uncertainty, supply bottlenecks, unpredictable price hikes on essential items, and likely decreases in both imports and exports as some trading partners implement retaliatory tariffs. In the long term, there will be irreparable rifts with valued trading partners and lack of coordination on shared goals,” said Thea Lee in her opening statement. 

    “With over 90% of bicycles, bicycle parts and bicycle accessories manufactured outside the US, the bike industry depends on a global supply chain. BTI imports from around the globe, especially Asia and Europe. Even our US sourced bike products are being affected since they are made from foreign-sourced raw materials. The bicycle industry works on low margins, thus cannot absorb higher tariff expenses,” said Preston Martin in his opening statement. 

    “In a normal year, roughly 750k Canadian tourists come into Vermont and inject roughly $150m into the State’s economy. Recent data shows that hotel reservations from CAD visitors are down 45% between Jan-April, credit card spending is down nearly 40% across that same time period, border crossings have been declining every month and are down nearly 35% and visits to the Vermont.com website, a data point reflecting the likelihood of visiting in the future are off 70% across the first few months of the year,” said Steve Wright in his opening statement. 

    “Small and medium-scale farmers of all political affiliations are bracing for a tough year. Input costs are rising, labor costs are soaring, USDA support is being cut, and consumers are stretched thin,” said Emma Jagoz in her opening statement. 

    Footage of the full forum can be foundHERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Legislative Changes Create Major Tax Savings Opportunity for Thousands of Kiwis and Expat Brits with UK Pensions

    Source: Press Release Service

    Headline: Legislative Changes Create Major Tax Savings Opportunity for Thousands of Kiwis and Expat Brits with UK Pensions

    Groundbreaking changes to New Zealand’s tax law, coming into effect on 1 April 2026, will create unprecedented opportunity for thousands of Kiwis and British expats with UK pensions to save on tax and transfer sooner.

    The post Legislative Changes Create Major Tax Savings Opportunity for Thousands of Kiwis and Expat Brits with UK Pensions first appeared on PR.co.nz.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pacific Partnership 2025 Conducts Mission Stop in Suva, Fiji, June 9, 2025 [Image 4 of 13]

    Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)

    Issued by: on

    SUVA, Fiji (June 9, 2025) Engineering Aide 2nd Class Jordanne Jones, left, and Construction Electrician 2nd Class Connor Croissant, both assigned to Amphibious Construction Battalion 1, conduct construction repairs at Waiqanake School during Pacific Partnership 2025 in Suva, Fiji, June 9, 2025. Now in its 21st iteration, the Pacific Partnership series is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster management preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific. Pacific Partnership works collaboratively with host and partner nations to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase security and stability in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships in the Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Moises Sandoval/Released)

    Date Taken: 06.09.2025
    Date Posted: 06.11.2025 18:07
    Photo ID: 9104598
    VIRIN: 250609-N-ED646-7596
    Resolution: 7731×5158
    Size: 7.19 MB
    Location: SUVA, FJ
    Web Views: 2
    Downloads: 0

    PUBLIC DOMAIN  

    This work, Pacific Partnership 2025 Conducts Mission Stop in Suva, Fiji, June 9, 2025 [Image 13 of 13], by PO2 Moises Sandoval, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.

    MIL Security OSI –