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Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI USA: IAM Local 47 Joins Denver’s Best Buddies Friendship Walk for Inclusion and Awareness

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    On May 4, members of IAM Local 47 proudly participated in the Best Buddies Friendship Walk at Washington Park in Denver. The event, the nation’s leading gathering dedicated to supporting inclusion for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), brought together advocates, allies, and friends to champion the mission of Best Buddies.

    Best Buddies is an international nonprofit organization focused on ending the social, physical, and economic isolation of individuals with IDD. The Friendship Walk, held annually across the country, raises crucial funds to support one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, and inclusive living opportunities for individuals with IDD.

    “Through amazing efforts, vital funds were raised in addition to awareness to sustain and expand our local Best Buddies programs,” said Maurice Jewell. “We look forward to next year’s event. With the Territory’s support, our mission of friendship and inclusion is stronger than ever!”

    Local 47 not only contributed generously to the cause but also showed up in full force. The delegation included Cesar Alvarado (organizer), Pedro Castillo, Juan Gonzalez, Garry Harper, Maurice Jewell, Teddy Salazar, Isabel Salazar, Shivam Talwar (sponsor and guest speaker), Ademir Velaquez, Fernando Villa, and Jacob Ynigez.

    The local gave special thanks to IAM Western Territory General Vice President Robert “Bobby” Martinez, whose donation of shirts ensured that members “represented the union with style” for the walk.

    “It was inspiring to see Local 47 members step up for such an important cause,” said Martinez. “Their commitment to supporting inclusion and advocating for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities speaks to the values we hold dear as a union — solidarity, community, and respect for every individual. I’m so proud of these members for how they showed up for their community.”

    Image Gallery

    The post IAM Local 47 Joins Denver’s Best Buddies Friendship Walk for Inclusion and Awareness appeared first on IAM Union.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: IAM Union Members Show Strength and Solidarity at 54th CBTU Convention

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    IAM Union members from across the country joined hundreds of labor leaders and activists in Orlando earlier this month for the 54th Annual Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU) Convention. The theme, “Preserving and Building on Our Legacy: Unbought, Unbossed, Unstoppable,” reflected the ongoing commitment of Black trade unionists to economic, political, and social justice for all workers.

    CBTU is not a Black separatist or civil rights organization. It is the fiercely independent voice of Black workers within the trade union movement, challenging organized labor to be more relevant to the needs and aspirations of Black and poor workers.

    At the same time, CBTU is recognized as a potent economic and political force within the African-American community. One of every five Black workers belongs to a union, and Black union members earn 40% more than non-union Black workers. In the political arena, CBTU has leveraged the vast resources of unions to mobilize Black voters to influence elections and public policy at every level of government.

    Rev. Terrence L. Melvin, president of the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU), spoke to CBTU delegates throughout the Convention on the importance of leaders who will stand up against billionaires ramping up attacks on all workers. President Melvin also gave a moving tribute to President Emeritus William “Bill” Lucy, who passed away earlier this year at 90.

    READ: Civil service workers: Front-line against union busting and corporate domination People’s World 

    The delegates also heard from AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler, AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Fred Redmond, AFSCME President Lee Saunders, AFGE President Everett Kelley, and many other leaders. 

    WATCH: IAM Delegates Motivated At CBTU Convention in Florida

    IAM members attended workshops on organizing, conflict resolution, leadership development, building power, and sharing strategies to strengthen our union and the broader labor movement.

    View photos here.

    “Our members showed up strong at CBTU because we know that real power comes from solidarity,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “IAM members believe that working people have a right to the full value of their labor. CBTU’s work aligns with our mission to raise standards for all workers—on the job, in our communities, and across the country.”

    IAM National Political and Legislative Director and CBTU Executive Board Member Hasan Solomon delivered an impactful update on the Boeing strike, highlighting the strength and unity of IAM members and the broader labor movement. Solomon also discussed the pros and cons of tariffs and the IAM’s support of strategic tariffs that help protect and grow jobs in the United States and Canada. 

    “The CBTU Convention is about action,” said IAM Human Rights Director Nicole L. Fears. “IAM members left Orlando recharged and ready to organize, mobilize, and lead. We’re proud to be part of a movement unafraid to speak truth to power and fight for justice for all workers.”

    Since its founding conference in 1972, CBTU’s stature among African-American workers has grown. Currently, more than 50 different international and national unions are represented in CBTU. With 50 chapters nationwide and one in Ontario, Canada, CBTU is maximizing the strength and influence of Black workers in unions and empowering their communities.

    IAM members are proud to stand with CBTU in fighting for dignity, justice, and a better future for all.

    The IAM remains committed to building a stronger union through solidarity, justice, and the belief that working people deserve to live with dignity and share in the wealth they create.

    The post IAM Union Members Show Strength and Solidarity at 54th CBTU Convention appeared first on IAM Union.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: DHS Secretary Noem Doubles Down and Escalates Action Against Harvard for their Continued Antisemitic Behavior, Fostering Violence, and CCP Coordination

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: DHS Secretary Noem Doubles Down and Escalates Action Against Harvard for their Continued Antisemitic Behavior, Fostering Violence, and CCP Coordination

    lass=”text-align-center”>The Trump Administration will be relentless in its efforts to end Harvard’s abuse of the American taxpayer and national security interests
    The United States Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security Kristi Noem continued to hold Harvard University accountable for failing to comply with Student Exchange Visa Program (SEVP) regulations, for encouraging and allowing antisemitic and anti-American violence to rage on its campus, and for coordinating with Chinese Communist Party officials on training that undermined American national security

    Following a letter from Harvard officials indicating an “intent” to now comply with SEVP, Secretary Noem held firm and reminded the once respected institution, which has disgraced American values, it still has a long way to comply with requirements of the program and be trusted with U

    S

    taxpayer dollars
    “Harvard’s refusal to comply with SEVP oversight was the latest evidence that it disdains the American people and takes for granted U

    S

    taxpayer benefits,” said Secretary Kristi Noem

    “Following our letter to Harvard, the school attempted to claim it now wishes to comply with SEVP standards

    We continue to reject Harvard’s repeated pattern of endangering its students and spreading American hate—it must change its ways in order to participate in American programs

    ” 
    The Department will continue to engage in good faith with Harvard and looks forward to the University’s full compliance with its requests

    Full text of the notice is available here

    # # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Pendleton County

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Pendleton County

    Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Pendleton County

    FRANKFORT, Ky

    –A Disaster Recovery Center has opened in Pendleton County to offer in-person support to Kentucky survivors who experienced loss as the result of the April severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides

    The new Disaster Recovery Center in Pendleton County is located at: Pendleton County Emergency Operations Center, 2275 Highway 27 North, Falmouth, KY 41040 Working hours are 9 a

    m

    to 7 p

    m

    Eastern Time, Monday through Saturday and 1 – 7 p

    m

    Eastern Time, Sunday

    Disaster Recovery Centers are one-stop shops where you can get information and advice on available assistance from state, federal and community organizations

     You can get help to apply for FEMA assistance, learn the status of your FEMA application, understand the letters you get from FEMA and get referrals to agencies that may offer other assistance

    The U

    S

    Small Business Administration representatives and resources from the Commonwealth are also available at the Disaster Recovery Centers to assist you

    FEMA is encouraging Kentuckians affected by the April storms to apply for federal disaster assistance as soon as possible

    The deadline to apply is June 25

    You can visit any Disaster Recovery Center to get in-person assistance

    No appointment is needed

    To find all other center locations, including those in other states, go to fema

    gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362

     You don’t have to visit a center to apply for FEMA assistance

    There are other ways to apply: online at DisasterAssistance

    gov, use the FEMA App for mobile devices or call 800-621-3362

    If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service

    When you apply, you will need to provide:A current phone number where you can be contacted

    Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying

    Your Social Security Number

    A general list of damage and losses

    Banking information if you choose direct deposit

    If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name

    For more information about Kentucky flooding recovery, visit  www

    fema

    gov/disaster/4864

    Follow the FEMA Region 4 X account at x

    com/femaregion4

     
    martyce

    allenjr
    Thu, 05/29/2025 – 12:45

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Economics: Walmart Family Mobile introduces most affordable plans yet with new features to support families during economic challenges

    Source: Verizon

    Headline: Walmart Family Mobile introduces most affordable plans yet with new features to support families during economic challenges

    NEW YORK – Walmart Family Mobile, a leading prepaid brand powered by Verizon’s award-winning network and available exclusively at Walmart, is proud to introduce its most affordable plans yet, designed to help families stay connected without compromising their budget. With inflation continuing to impact household finances across the country, Walmart Family Mobile helps families save money during times of financial uncertainty.

    New Plans and Features:

    • New $19.88 Plan: Introducing a more affordable entry-level option with 4GB of data, making it easier for families to choose the right plan for their needs–with family plans starting as low as $19.88/month per line. 
    • New $34.88 Plan: A high-value option with 20 GB of high-speed data, giving customers plenty of data to stay connected while staying on budget.
    • Enhanced $24.88/8GB Plan: Offering more data at a competitive price, providing better value for money. 
    • Improved Family Line Pricing: Reduced the price to add a line from $24.88 to $19.88 for customers adding a line on the new plans. Available to new and existing customers.
    • Introducing Family Mobile Peace of Mind For All Plans: Helping families in tough times to stay connected, with up to six (6) times per year of unlimited talk and incoming text messages for just $1/mo plus taxes and fees.
    • Employee Discount: Walmart employees get 33% off all Walmart Family Mobile plans, starting as low as $13.32/month per line.

    Lifeline Value for Families in Need

    Walmart Family Mobile’s Lifeline discount program lowers monthly phone service costs for eligible low-income customers, providing critical and affordable mobile connectivity for families in need. Qualified customers can access plans for as low as $5.88/month in California and $9.88/month in other states, helping ease financial burdens without sacrificing connectivity they can rely on. To further support enrollment and outreach, Walmart Family Mobile will also award grants to community partners to help eligible customers enroll in Lifeline.

    Family Mobile Peace of Mind

    When unexpected challenges arise, Family Mobile Peace of Mind is there to keep families connected to what matters most. The Family Mobile Peace of Mind feature provides up to six months of unlimited talk and incoming text messages for $1/month plus taxes and fees, helping customers stay in touch with loved ones and employers in case of emergency. This feature is available for all customers who have been with Walmart Family Mobile for 90 days or longer.

    “Walmart Family Mobile’s new plans and features underscore our unwavering commitment to supporting families through economic hardships,” said Nancy Clark, President of Verizon Value Brands. “In these challenging times, connectivity is not just a convenience—it’s a necessity. Through these offers and partnerships, we want to make a tangible difference in the lives of those who need it most by providing affordable and reliable mobile services.”

    United Way Worldwide and Goodwill Industries International Partnerships

    As part of the brand’s commitment to supporting families, Walmart Family Mobile is also partnering with United Way Worldwide and Goodwill Industries International (GII) to provide resources that connect families to basic needs.

    Walmart Family Mobile will be supporting United Way’s work with 211, a free, 24/7 service that connects individuals to critical local resources, such as Lifeline, with professional Community Resource Specialists handling over 42,000 calls daily in more than 180 languages.

    The brand is also working with GII at both the national and local level:

    • As a keynote sponsor of Goodwill’s Mission Optimization Learning Event, Walmart Family Mobile will equip event attendees with training and resources to benefit over 2,500 Career Navigators across the Goodwill network.
    • Walmart Family Mobile will also provide dedicated funding and support to local Goodwill organizations who serve Atlanta and Los Angeles.
    • To celebrate these new partnerships and reinforce the brand’s commitment to ensuring working families can stay connected, Walmart Family Mobile will also identify two families within the Goodwill network in need of a lifeline and provide them with new devices and 12 months of service at no cost.

    Walmart Family Mobile remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting families through economic challenges by offering affordable and reliable mobile services, because staying connected shouldn’t come at a high cost, especially when it matters most. For more information on Walmart Family Mobile, visit www.myfamilymobile.com.

    About Walmart Family Mobile 

    Walmart Family Mobile provides quality no-contract wireless solutions to value-conscious consumers and is available exclusively at Walmart and Walmart.com. Walmart Family Mobile is part of the Verizon Value portfolio of prepaid brands, which includes Total Wireless, Visible, Tracfone, Simple Mobile, SafeLink, Straight Talk, and Verizon Prepaid. 

    MIL OSI Economics –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Beneath the Surface: How Panama City Keeps Military Divers on the Cutting Edge

    Source: United States Navy

    PANAMA CITY, Fla. – For the military diver, the unforgiving depths can be a perilous arena. Since August 1, 1882, U.S. Navy sailors have executed essential underwater operations around the globe, from special operations and reconnaissance to ship repair and force protection. Yet these military divers are also at the forefront of subsea and seabed warfare, wielding cutting-edge technology to enhance their safety and expand their capabilities. And for more than 75 years—with May being the Month of the Military Diver—one place has been synonymous with this mission: Panama City, Fla. – the Home of Military Diving.

    MIL Security OSI –

    May 30, 2025
  • Clinical RCB trounce PBKS to punch ticket to IPL final with emphatic eight-wicket win

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Royal Challengers Bengaluru blazed past table-toppers Punjab Kings to book their place in the final of the 18th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) with a commanding eight-wicket victory on Thursday.

    After a spirited bowling display spearheaded by Josh Hazlewood and Suyash Sharma — both claiming three-wicket hauls — Bengaluru’s batters followed up with an aggressive chase to seal the win. From the first over, it was one-way traffic, and the batters ensured it stayed that way in the second innings.

    Defending a modest 101-run total, Punjab showed early resistance as Kyle Jamieson, recalling his 2021 WTC final heroics, dismissed Virat Kohli (12) by extracting extra bounce and drawing an edge to Josh Inglis behind the stumps — a maiden-wicket over that marked Kohli’s lowest score in a chase during IPL 2025.

    Impact substitute Mayank Agarwal, partnered by Philip Salt, counterattacked with a 21-run over against Jamieson to close the powerplay.

    PBKS captain Shreyas Iyer introduced Musheer Khan into the attack, and the youngster delivered by trapping Mayank lbw for 19(13). However, Punjab’s hopes faded as Salt continued his onslaught, reaching a half-century in just 23 balls. Skipper Rajat Patidar then finished the job in style with a slog-sweep into the stands, sealing RCB’s spot in the final.

    Earlier, PBKS collapsed to 48/4 inside the powerplay. Marcus Stoinis (26 off 17 balls, 2 fours and 2 sixes) was the only batter to cross the 20-run mark. Suyash Sharma’s three wickets dismantled the middle order.

    After electing to bowl first, RCB got off to a dream start. The pace trio of Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Yash Dayal, and Hazlewood dominated the early overs.

    Yash struck first, removing Priyansh Arya for 7 via a sharp catch at cover by Krunal Pandya. PBKS were 9/1 in 1.2 overs.

    Prabhsimran Singh played some attacking shots but edged one to keeper Jitesh Sharma for 18 off 10 balls, giving Bhuvneshwar his first wicket. PBKS were 27/2 in 3 overs.

    Hazlewood, returning from injury, made an immediate impact by removing Shreyas Iyer (2) and fellow Australian Josh Inglis (4), reducing PBKS to 38/4 in 5.1 overs.

    Nehal Wadhera’s resistance didn’t last, as a thick edge off Yash crashed into the stumps. PBKS slumped to 50/5 in 6.3 overs.

    Things worsened in the 8th over when Suyash cleaned up both Shashank Singh (3) and Impact Sub Musheer Khan (0), leaving PBKS reeling at 60/7.

    Stoinis was the only remaining hope, but Suyash bowled him for 26, his third wicket. PBKS were 78/8 in 10.3 overs.

    Romario Shepherd dismissed Harpreet Brar (4), and Hazlewood wrapped up the innings by removing Omarzai, who edged to Jitesh. PBKS were all out for 101 in 14.1 overs.

    Suyash (3/17) and Hazlewood (3/21) were the standout bowlers, with Yash claiming 2/26. Bhuvneshwar and Romario took one wicket each.

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Schrier Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Support Washington Farmers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Kim Schrier, M.D. (WA-08)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congresswoman Kim Schrier, M.D. (WA-08) introduced bipartisan legislation to permanently fix the Specialty Crop Research Initiative (SCRI) and provide crucial support for Washington farmers and growers. Representatives Rick Larsen (WA-02), Dan Newhouse (WA-04), and John Moolenaar (MI-02) joined Congresswoman Schrier in introducing this bill. 

    “Washington farmers work tirelessly to provide our state and the entire world with high-quality produce. At a time when changes in the climate, input costs, tariffs, and the economy have taken their toll on Washington agriculture, we must ensure that farmers have the scientific research and expertise they need to feed the world,” said Congresswoman Schrier. “This bill will allow Washington State University and other agricultural research institutions access to federal specialty crop research funding without the sometimes impossible hurdle of matching federal funding dollar for dollar. Federal support should make it as easy as possible to pursue scientific endeavors, including research that will sustain our food system and family farms.”

    The SCRI finances research projects that directly benefit Washington farmers. SCRI has funded projects to combat fungicide resistance in wine grapes, prevent pestilence in onions, and improve precision irrigation for fruit growers. Before 2019, the Secretary of Agriculture was able to waive SCRI’s matching funds requirement when it was prohibitively expensive for research institutions, but the 2018 Farm Bill eliminated this authority.

    Congresswoman Schrier’s bill permanently fixes this issue by once again allowing the Secretary of Agriculture to waive the matching requirement. Representative Schrier has long been focused on this issue, having previously introduced similar legislation in past Congresses, and currently leads a bipartisan funding letter to fix this problem on a temporary basis in annual appropriations legislation. 

    “In Northwest Washington, the Specialty Crop Research Initiative empowers farmers to foster innovation and feed the world,” said Congressman Larsen. “Research into berries, spinach, cabbage seed and other specialty crops is a critical part of our region’s economy and character.”

    “Specialty crops are the backbone of the agriculture industry in Central Washington, and our local research institutions play a key role in innovating industry practices,” said Congressman Newhouse. “Ensuring the Specialty Crop Research Initiative is equal access by waiving the matching funds requirement allows our research institutions to equally compete for funding and support a stronger, smarter specialty crop industry. I thank my colleagues for joining this effort as we work to ensure research institutions are equipped to meet the challenges facing the industry.”  

    “Farmers in Michigan’s Second District grow some of the most diverse specialty crops in the nation. Unfortunately, provisions left out of the last Farm Bill put specialty crop farmers at a disadvantage, limiting the availability of critical research to improve irrigation, and protect their harvests,” said Congressman Moolenaar. “Investing in the Specialty Crop Research Initiative is a commonsense, bipartisan proposal to ensure our farmers can continue to grow the apples, cherries, asparagus, and blueberries families enjoy every day.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: REP. French Hill Introduces Bipartisan Digital Asset Market Structure Legislation

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman French Hill (AR-02)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Rep. French Hill (R-AR), Chairman of the House Financial Services Committee, today introduced the Digital Asset Market Clarity (CLARITY) Act, which would establish a regulatory framework for digital assets in the United States.

    House Committee on Agriculture Chairman G.T. Thompson (R-PA), House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-MN), House Committee on Financial Services Subcommittee on Digital Assets, Financial Technology, and Artificial Intelligence Chairman Bryan Steil (R-WI), House Committee on Agriculture Subcommittee on Commodity Markets, Digital Assets, and Rural Development Chairman Dusty Johnson (R-SD), Rep. Warren Davidson (R-OH), House Agriculture Committee Ranking Member Angie Craig (D-MN), Rep. Ritchie Torres (D-NY), and Rep. Don Davis (D-NC) are all original co-sponsors.

    Chairman Hill said, “I am proud to introduce the bipartisan CLARITY Act with my colleagues. Our bill brings long-overdue clarity to the digital asset ecosystem, prioritizes consumer protection and American innovation, and builds off our work in the 118th Congress. I look forward to delivering our bill to President Trump’s desk and securing America’s position as the global leader in digital assets.”

    Chairman Thompson added, “I’m proud to join Chairman Hill, and bipartisan leaders from both our committees in introducing Digital Asset Market Clarity (CLARITY) Act. Today’s introduction of CLARITY is an exciting step towards delivering the certainty and clarity digital asset entrepreneurs and markets need. This landmark legislation will protect consumers, unleash entrepreneurship, and ensure the United States sets the global standard for the future of innovation.”

    House Majority Whip Emmer stated, “This is an important moment for the United States. This bill is a bold step to ensuring that the next iteration of the internet is developed by Americans and driven by our values. I am grateful to my colleagues for all of their work to craft this thoughtful, globally competitive framework, and look forward to working with them to ensure this commonsense legislation is signed into law.”

    Subcommittee Chairman Steil said, “The golden age of digital assets is here. America won’t just participate in the Web3 revolution; we will win it. The CLARITY Act ensures that financial innovation and development of digital assets occurs here in the United States. Our bill secures American dominance, democratizes digital assets, unleashes innovation, and protects consumers from fraud. Thank you, Chairman Hill and Chairman Thompson, for leading this effort.” 

    Subcommittee Chairman Johnson added, “America should be the global leader in the digital assets marketplace – but we can’t do that without establishing a clear regulatory framework. This legislation gives our markets the clarity they need to thrive, protect consumers, and foster innovation. I’m grateful for the partnership of Chairmen Thompson, Hill, Steil, and Majority Whip Emmer thus far and I’m looking forward to working together to get this landmark legislation across the finish line.”

    Rep. Davidson said, “The CLARITY Act creates a clear and effective regulatory framework for digital assets. It protects the right to self-custody and the freedom to transact. These principles are essential for innovation, economic growth, and individual liberty. Since 2018, I’ve worked to bring legal clarity to digital assets. The CLARITY Act delivers on that goal. I applaud Chairman Hill for his leadership in solidifying the United States’ position as a global leader in digital assets.”

    Ranking Member Craig said, “Digital assets, including crypto currencies, are moving from a unique, novel financial product to becoming more and more integrated with our current financial architecture. I believe it is critical that Congress establish clear protections for consumers and retail investors as well as rules of the road for businesses dealing in digital assets. The bipartisan CLARITY Act will ensure oversight and regulation of digital assets in our financial system so that business owners, innovators and consumers can engage with in these markets knowing what is expected of them.”

    Rep. Torres said, “For too long, regulatory uncertainty has held back the full potential of digital innovation in the United States. The CLARITY Act will deliver clear rules of the road that entrepreneurs, investors, and consumers deserve. By protecting consumers, promoting transparency, and closing regulatory gaps, this legislation will ensure that America remains the global leader in digital asset innovation.”

    Rep. Davis said, “Families, entrepreneurs, and small businesses across our country, including rural areas in eastern North Carolina, seek ways to engage in the modern economy. Digital assets present a chance for a more inclusive financial future, but we need clear rules and fair oversight for innovation to thrive. Congress must ensure that America shapes digital finance, creates opportunities, protects consumers, and supports overlooked communities.”

    Click here for the text of Digital Asset Market Clarity (CLARITY) Act.

    Click here for a section-by-section.

    Click here for a one-pager.

    Further Background on the Committee’s work on digital asset market structure legislation:

    • On May 22, 2024, the Financial Innovation and Technology for the 21st Century (FIT21) Act passed the House of Representatives 279-136 with 71 Democrats supporting the bill in the 118th Congress.
    • On April 4, 2025, Chairman Hill and Chairman Thompson published an op-ed in CoinDesk outlining their vision for digital asset market structure legislation for the 119th Congress.
    • On April 9, 2025, the Subcommittee on Digital Assets, Financial Technology, and Artificial Intelligence held its first digital asset market structure hearing of this Congress.
    • On May 5, 2025, Chairman Hill, Chairman Thompson, Subcommittee Chairman Steil, and Subcommittee Chairman Johnson released a digital asset market structure discussion draft to establish a regulatory framework for digital assets in the United States.
    • On May 6, 2025, the House Financial Services and Agriculture Committees held a public joint roundtable discussion on key concepts and principles for digital asset market structure legislation. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Minority Leader Harold Jones II Appointed Chairman of Senate Study Committee on Improving Family Caregiver Services

    Source: US State of Georgia

    ATLANTA (May 29, 2025) — Last week, Lt. Governor Burt Jones appointed Minority Leader, Sen. Harold Jones II (D–Augusta), as Chairman of the Senate Study Committee on Improving Family Caregiver Services.

    “I want to thank Lt. Governor Burt Jones for appointing me Chair of the Senate Study Committee on Improving Family Caregiver Services,” said Sen. Jones. “This issue is critically important to families across Georgia. Every day, people across our state bring a loved one home from the hospital and instantly find themselves in the role of a health care provider, often without the training or support they need. Our goal with this committee is to determine how the State can better assist families as they care for their loved ones at home. I look forward to hearing directly from people across Georgia as we work to address this pressing issue.”

    The Senate Study Committee on Improving Family Caregiver Services is tasked with determining policy goals and identifying legislative action to improve family caregiving. Additional Senate members appointed to the committee include Sen. Chuck Hufstetler (R–Rome), Sen. Larry Walker III (R–Perry), Sen. Ben Watson (R–Savannah) and Sen. Kenya Wicks (D–Fayette).

    More information about Senate Study Committees can be found here.

    # # # #

    Sen. Harold V. Jones II serves as the Democratic Leader. He represents the 22nd Senate District, which includes portions of Richmond County. He may be reached at 404.656.0036 or via email at harold.jones@senate.ga.gov.

    For all media inquiries, please reach out to SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: First Stage of New Midtown Bus Terminal Construction Marked

    Source: US State of New York

    The deck-overs represent the first step in the replacement of the existing 75-year-old, functionally obsolete bus terminal with a world-class facility. When complete, the project will include a new main terminal, a separate storage and staging building and new ramps leading directly into and out of the Lincoln Tunnel. The project plan — including the permanent closure of a portion of 41st Street between Eighth and Ninth avenues, a central main entrance, more street-facing retail, a soaring multi-story indoor atrium and new public open space — will enhance the commuter experience at the world’s busiest bus terminal and become a centerpiece for the community. The project is expected to create approximately 6,000 good-paying union construction jobs.

    Port Authority of New York and New Jersey Chairman Kevin O’Toole said, “It is incredibly satisfying to break ground on the first stage of construction of a new Midtown Bus Terminal that will improve the lives of hundreds of thousands of daily commuters between New Jersey and New York, and greatly improve the community hosting it. I’d like to thank Governor Murphy and Governor Hochul for their full support of a project that will bring economic growth and vitality to our bistate region for decades to come.”

    Port Authority of New York and New Jersey Executive Director Rick Cotton said, “Today’s groundbreaking for the first stage of a new Midtown Bus Terminal is a momentous accomplishment that moved forward after years of delay by focusing on two key propositions — improving the lives of tens of thousands of daily commuters and providing real benefits to a community burdened by an architectural eyesore and a deluge of bus traffic. By focusing on benefits both to commuters and the surrounding community, we are now moving forward with a project that enjoys unprecedented support at every level of government on both sides of the river. And at last, we are on our way to creating a gateway that our region deserves.”

    Port Authority of New York and New Jersey Vice Chairman Jeffrey Lynford said, “Today marks the start of a long-awaited transformation: replacing one of our region’s most notorious eyesores with a modern, best-in-class bus terminal. When complete, this new facility will not only improve commutes — it will also serve as a valuable neighborhood asset. This project is the result of over a decade of work, including hundreds of meetings with community leaders, transit advocates, and elected officials, as well as a rigorous environmental review led by the Federal Transit Administration. Thanks to that deep engagement, the project has earned broad support — from the local community to every level of government.”

    NJ TRANSIT President and CEO Kris Kolluri said, “The new Midtown Bus Terminal represents a transformative investment in the future of regional mobility. For NJ TRANSIT, as the largest tenant, this project is more than just infrastructure — it’s a once-in-a-generation opportunity to redefine the commuting experience for the tens of thousands of New Jersey residents who depend on it every day. The new terminal will stand as a gateway to opportunity, and a powerful symbol of our shared commitment to a stronger, more connected region.”

    Reliable and efficient bus service between New York and New Jersey is critical to the interconnected economies of both states, as hundreds of thousands of New Jersey residents work in New York City. The new terminal is designed to meet projected 2040-50 commuter growth, provide a best-in-class customer experience that serves the region’s 21st century public transportation needs, and enhance the surrounding community. The project does not include the taking of any private property as it will be built on existing Port Authority of New York and New Jersey property stretching as far west as 11th Avenue.

    The new bus terminal will be built for the future and designed to be net-zero emissions, accommodating all-electric bus fleets and implementing modern high technology innovations. The new ramp structure will provide a direct connection to the Lincoln Tunnel, with added queue space and bypass capability, thereby reducing congestion, bus circulation, idling and parking on local city streets. Community-friendly outward-facing local retail will benefit commuters and the community alike.

    The final plan for the Midtown Bus Terminal replacement project incorporates extensive public feedback from a broad community outreach effort, including input from New York City, New Jersey, commuters, local community boards and elected officials in both states. The total cost of the replacement project has been estimated at approximately $10 billion, with actual procurement for phase one of the project actively in progress. Construction of the Dyer Avenue deck-overs is now underway. The project has received unprecedented support from the community, the city, state and federal agencies.

    The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s construction plan for the new bus terminal calls for it to be built in phases, with the deck-overs being built first followed by the storage and staging facility. The Dyer Avenue deck-overs project encompasses the construction of two decks over below-grade portions of Dyer Avenue and the Lincoln Tunnel Expressway between West 37th and West 38th streets and between West 38th and West 39th streets. The storage and staging facility can serve as a temporary terminal while the existing terminal is demolished and replaced.

    Senator Kirsten Gillibrand said, “The Midtown Bus Terminal is a relic of a bygone era and overdue for a much-needed upgrade. This first step makes it possible to rebuild the bus terminal with minimal interruptions for hundreds of thousands of passengers every day. This project will also represent a long-term investment in the city by creating 6,000 new jobs and 3.5 acres of much-needed open space in Midtown. I am grateful to the Port Authority for reaffirming its commitment to a world-class 21st century travel experience in New York.”

    Representative Jerry Nadler said, “Finally, after many years of discussion and hard-fought community negotiation, we are finally breaking ground on the first phase of a brand-new Port Authority Bus Terminal in Midtown, the Dyer Avenue deck-overs. The replacement bus terminal is long overdue and thankfully moving forward. A new bus terminal will improve air quality and make our streets safer for pedestrians by removing all commuter and inter-city buses from our streets. And it will replace the outdated and deteriorating bus terminal with a modern, efficient transportation hub that meets the needs of both commuters and residents while contributing to the continued growth and success of New York City. These new deck-overs will eventually lead to a new 3.5-acre publicly accessible open space on the West Side, something that is desperately needed in Hell’s Kitchen. I have been proud to support this project and helped it secure up to $1.9 billion in federal funding from the Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (TIFIA) Loan Program championed by the Biden Administration’s Build America Program.”

    State Senator Jeremy Cooney said, “Hundreds of thousands of travelers from New York and New Jersey rely on this route and the Midtown Bus Terminal. This project will mean good-paying construction jobs, more efficient travel, and eventually new green spaces for the community to enjoy. I want to thank Governor Hochul and Governor Murphy for their dedication to making this project a reality and creating a more seamless transportation experience between our two states.”

    State Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal said, “Construction on our new, state-of-the-art Midtown Bus Terminal is officially underway. The deck-overs, breaking ground today, will allow work on this project to begin without disrupting service at the busiest bus terminal in the world. It’s particularly exciting that when construction of the terminal is complete, not only will we have a bus terminal that will reduce congestion and accommodate more riders, we will also have new park land, as the deck-overs will be transformed into 3.5 acres of publicly accessible green space. I look forward to the day that the construction is completed and the Midtown Bus Terminal goes from ‘worst’ to ‘first’ in the eyes of the millions of New Yorkers who utilize or live near the terminal, including my constituents on the west side of Manhattan.”

    Assemblymember Tony Simone said, “The start of construction over Dyer Avenue marks the beginning of the total transformation of our outdated bus terminal into a world class transit hub. This massive investment by the Port Authority will not only get buses off our crowded streets, these deck overs will eventually be new green space for the west side. When complete, this neighborhood will be unrecognizable from its current state, becoming a place New Yorkers will want to spend in, all while drastically changing how millions move through our city and region.”

    New York City Mayor Eric Adams said, “Today marks a major milestone in building the future of public transit for our region. Breaking ground on the Dyer Avenue deck-overs is more than the start of construction — it’s the beginning of a transformative investment in sustainable infrastructure, improved air quality, and expanded public space. The new Midtown Bus Terminal will not only modernize a vital commuter hub, but will also reconnect our neighborhoods, support thousands of good-paying jobs, and create a greener, more accessible West Side for generations to come.”

    Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine said, “Breaking ground on the Dyer Avenue deck-overs is an important first step in the replacement of the Midtown Terminal, which will be a transformational project for the west side. It is time for the busiest bus terminal in the world to become a world-class facility for commuters, visitors, and residents. I am excited for this project to become a reality and will continue to work with the Port Authority and the community to ensure the best outcomes during and after construction.”

    New York City Councilmember Erik Bottcher said, “Today’s groundbreaking marks a truly transformative moment for New York City — and especially for the West Side. After years of collaboration, planning, and deep community engagement, we are finally beginning the next chapter for the Midtown Bus Terminal. This project isn’t just about replacing a building — it’s about restoring a neighborhood. By removing buses from our streets and creating a network of vibrant green spaces, we are reconnecting Hell’s Kitchen, healing the urban fabric, and delivering the modern transit infrastructure New Yorkers deserve. This is a victory for the community, for sustainability, and for the future of our city. I’d like to thank the Port Authority, Manhattan Community Board 4 and my colleagues in government for all the work they have done to bring us to this point.”

    New York City Councilmember Selvena Brooks-Powers, Chair of the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure “Reliable, accessible public transportation is essential to our region’s economic health and quality of life. The Midtown Bus Terminal is a critical link for commuters across the city and beyond, and this groundbreaking marks an important step toward delivering a modern, efficient facility that meets 21st-century needs. I look forward to continued engagement with the Port Authority to ensure that this project centers equity, sustainability, and community benefit at every phase.”

    New York City Economic Development Corporation President and CEO Andrew Kimball said, “With today’s groundbreaking on the Dyer Avenue deck-overs, the Midtown Bus Terminal vision moves one step closer to becoming reality and Midtown Manhattan gets a huge upgrade. The new terminal is more than just one of the busiest transit hubs in the country, it will bring new open space, reduce congestion, employing thousands of union workers during its construction, and bring massive quality of life upgrades to Midtown Manhattan.”

    New York City Department of Transportation Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez said, “It is welcome news to the city, to bus riders, and to the local communities on Manhattan’s west side that construction of the Dyer Avenue deck-overs is now underway. By reducing bus congestion and idling, easing the commuter experience, and creating new public space the midtown bus terminal replacement project will greatly enhance this area that New York City has outgrown. NYC DOT congratulates the Port Authority on breaking ground and we look forward to continuing to support them in this impactful initiative.”

    New York City Department of City Planning Director Dan Garodnick said, “It’s hard to overstate how vital the Midtown Bus Terminal is to New York City, the tri-state region, and the country. It’s one of the great front doors to our city. With today’s groundbreaking on the Dyer Avenue deck-overs, we’re taking the first step toward a modern, world-class transit hub that New Yorkers deserve. I look forward to seeing this transformation take shape and serve residents, commuters, and visitors for generations to come.”

    Building and Construction Trades Council of Greater New York President Gary LaBarbera said, “Today marks a crucial milestone for the Midtown Bus Terminal Replacement Program, a key critical infrastructure project that will not only establish a modern and state-of-the-art transit hub for New Yorkers and visitors alike, but also generate thousands of family-sustaining union construction careers. We applaud Governor Hochul and Governor Murphy, along with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey for pushing forward this major development that will serve as an economic boon for our city and surrounding communities. Our members look forward to playing a role in building this project and pursuing the paths to the middle class that it creates.”

    New York League of Conservation Voters President Julie Tighe said, “The new Midtown Bus Terminal will be a game changer for commuters and neighborhood residents alike and a huge win for the environment. While serving hundreds of thousands of daily passengers, the new zero-emission, electric-bus friendly commuter hub will cut air pollution, ease the burden on neighborhood streets, and create thousands of good-paying union jobs in the process. Just as important, the addition of 3.5 acres of new public green space will deliver lasting environmental and public health benefits to the surrounding community. We commend Governors Hochul and Murphy and the Port Authority for prioritizing climate-smart design and investing in a healthier, more sustainable future.”

    New York Building Congress President and CEO Carlo A. Scissura said, “This groundbreaking is a landmark moment not just for the transformation of Manhattan’s West Side but the entire region. The Port Authority is advancing a bold vision for transit and public space that delivers real benefits and will create over 6,000 good-paying union jobs and 3.5 acres of public open space, all while providing long overdue infrastructure upgrades. The new Midtown Bus Terminal project is exactly the kind of investment New York needs, and we proudly stand alongside those who made it happen today – with special thanks to Rick Cotton for his leadership – as we break ground on this exciting and essential project.”

    Real Estate Board of New York President James Whelan said, “REBNY and its members are pleased to see the launch of this project. More than just supporting the growth of New York City’s diverse regional transit infrastructure, the project will energize our economy with thousands of new jobs and retail in Midtown.”

    Regional Plan Association President and CEO Tom Wright said, “Today’s groundbreaking is the result of years of thoughtful partnership to deliver a shared vision for a reimagined Midtown Bus Terminal that strengthens the local community and expands regional connectivity. The Port Authority Bus Terminal is one of the most high-traffic transportation hubs in the nation and is critical to the tri-state region’s continued economic vitality. This moment marks an important step towards the creation of a modern, expanded, best-in-class terminal that will not only serve the needs of commuters but create an amenity and attraction for the community.”

    Association for a Better New York CEO Emma Pfohman said, “As the gateway for millions of commuters and travelers each year, the revitalized Midtown Bus Terminal will not only improve the daily lives of New Yorkers but also fuel our city’s continued growth and resilience. The Association for a Better New York applauds Governor Hochul, Governor Murphy, and the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey for leading this important investment in the region’s transportation infrastructure and in our city’s future.”

    Times Square Alliance President Tom Harris said, “The Midtown Bus Terminal is an extremely vital aspect of the commuter life of the hundreds of thousands of people who commute to Times Square every day. We applaud both governors for taking this first step toward the new world class terminal to come that will provide another reason why Times Square is one of the strongest transportation hubs in the city and beyond.”

    Bryant Park Corporation President Dan Biederman said, “We’ve seen an early version of the Port Authority’s plans for the bus terminal. They’re excellent, just what we’d expect from the agency that has had recent success with terminals at Newark and LaGuardia airports. We strongly endorse their interim steps to at long last make the PABT, which serves as a gateway for Bryant Park visitors, an attractive facility.”

    Manhattan Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Jessica Walker said, “This is an exciting day for all New Yorkers as well as employees and visitors coming here from the broader region. This forward-looking project is critical to New York’s preparation for future growth and demand. It is innovative and aspirational in nature, understanding that our city’s best days are ahead. Congratulations to the Port Authority and Governors Hochul and Murphy for bringing us to this point.”

    Manhattan Community Board 4 Chair Jessica Chait said, “Community Board 4 is proud to mark this milestone toward a cleaner, less congested, and more connected region. The Dyer Avenue deck-overs lay the literal groundwork for a modern, sustainable transit hub that reflects a welcoming and efficient gateway to New York City. We thank the Port Authority and our elected partners for centering community input in a project that will improve air quality, reduce street-level congestion, and bring vital open space to our neighborhood.”

    Hudson Yards Hell’s Kitchen Alliance President Robert J. Benfatto said, “The Hudson Yards Hell’s Kitchen Alliance is looking forward to the completion of the construction of the Midtown Bus Terminal project, including the Dyer deck-overs, so that the neighborhood can begin using a new, first-in-class bus transit facility. We will continue to advocate for our community throughout this long process, as our mission states that we are dedicated to enhancing the quality of life of the diverse population who lives, works and visits within the district.

    About the Midtown Bus Terminal

    What is now the world’s busiest bus terminal opened in 1950, after the mayor of New York City requested the Port Authority to consolidate eight separate, smaller bus terminals throughout Midtown Manhattan in order to relieve street congestion. As the regional population grew and spread geographically, the Port Authority expanded the terminal’s capacity in 1963 by converting parking space to a fourth level of bus operations and adding three new levels of public parking for 1,000 cars. By 1966, the terminal served nearly 69 million passengers, once again requiring increased bus capacity. In 1970, the Port Authority created a 2-mile exclusive bus lane (XBL) on the New Jersey Route 495 approach to the Lincoln Tunnel, giving buses faster access directly to the bus terminal and saving commuters up to 20 minutes in travel time.

    In 1981, the Port Authority expanded the bus terminal’s capacity by 50 percent with a new North Wing extension to 42nd Street and the diagonal girder façade now familiar to bus riders. The current facility spans 1.9 million square feet as the nation’s largest bus terminal and the world’s busiest. Individual carriers, the largest of which is NJ Transit, serve routes for daily commuters throughout New Jersey, eastern Pennsylvania, and the lower Hudson Valley, as well as provide intercity services to and from locations such as upstate New York, New England, the Mid-Atlantic and Canada. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the bus terminal accommodated an estimated 260,000 passenger trips on an average weekday. As of 2024, the terminal served approximately 205,000 average weekday daily passengers.

    For more information on the replacement project, visit the Port Authority’s website on the Midtown Bus Terminal replacement.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: Sheet Harbour — Update: RCMP seeking public’s assistance to help find Brian Warrington

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment continues to search for 40-year-old Brian John Matthew Warrington, who was last seen Sunday in Sheet Harbour.

    Ground search and rescue (GSAR) teams and RCMP and GSAR remotely piloted aircraft system operators have been searching the Sheet Harbour area, along the East River and on Hwy. 7 and Hwy. 224.

    Warrington is described as 6-foot-0, 210 pounds. He has brown hair, brown eyes and walks with a limp. Currently, no clothing description is available.

    Information gathered indicates that Warrington is known to hitchhike to Halifax and surrounding communities. If you’ve provided a ride to a man fitting his description, please contact police.

    Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Brian Warrington, or who has video footage of Hwy. 7, between the 22000 and 23000 blocks on May 24 or 25, is asked to contact police at 902-490-5020. To remain anonymous, call Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or use the P3 Tips app.

    File #: 25-73768

    MIL Security OSI –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Drought declared in north-west of England

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Drought declared in north-west of England

    Many reservoirs in the region are at historic low levels for the time of year

    The Environment Agency has declared drought status for the north-west of England following the driest start to spring in 69 years.

    River flows have been declining along with groundwater levels due to the dry March, April and start of May.

    Reservoir storage levels in the region are also receding and are currently lower than they were at this time during the 1984, 1995 and 2022 drought years.

    The recent rain, while welcome, is not enough to reverse the dry start to the year and expected hotter weather in the coming weeks is set to exacerbate the situation.

    The decision by the EA to move into drought status sees the regulator increase their operational response while ensuring water companies step up the actions agreed in their drought plans.

    This includes fixing leaks, communicating with customers and supporting them to reduce demand, and submitting drought permits to take more water, as needed. These actions if taken in a timely manner will help preserve supplies for people and the environment.

    In the North West, the EA continues to work to ensure United Utilities acts in accordance with their drought plan.

    Although the North-west has experienced a dry start to the year, it is a mixed picture in other parts of England. The Environment Agency and Defra ministers will convene a meeting of the National Drought Group on 5 June to assess the situation across the country and ensure that water companies are enacting their drought plans to conserve water supplies.

    Andy Brown, Water Regulation Manager at the Environment Agency said:

    Drought is a naturally occurring phenomenon. As we see more impacts from climate change heavier rainfall and drier summers will become more frequent. This poses an enormous challenge over the next few decades.

    Despite the rain over the weekend levels remain low and we are encouraging people to be aware of the impacts of drought as we enter the summer period.

    With further unsettled periods and rainfall over the coming weeks we will continue to closely monitor the situation and implement our Drought Plan.

    Water Minister Emma Hardy said:

    I am receiving regular updates from the Environment Agency.

    I’m doing everything in my power to hold United Utilities to account to ensure we have the regular supply of water that is needed across the region.

    The government is taking decisive action to secure our water supply for the decades to come. That’s why we are building 9 new reservoirs and upgrading pipes to cut leakage by 17%.

    Periods of dry weather and low rivers can have several environmental consequences such as deoxygenating water. This can lead to fish kills, as well as more algal blooms and diminished river flow that prevents wildlife from moving up or downstream. 

    The Environment Agency is encouraging the public to report environmental incidents to their 24/7 hotline on 0800 80 70 60.

    Defra announced today that the Environment Secretary was stepping in to speed up delivery for the first two major reservoirs since the 1990s as part of government action to secure our water supply for future generations.

    Further information

    A decision to declare drought is taken based on reservoir levels, river flows and moisture in the soil along with consideration of the long-term weather forecasts.  Droughts are often long-term events, starting as far back as the previous Autumn with effects felt throughout the following seasons. Declaring drought status enables the Environment Agency to plan, deliver and manage actions in drought plans.

    However, there is no single definition for drought, so while it’s caused by a period of low rainfall, the nature, timing and impacts on people, the environment, agriculture or business will vary. Some droughts are short and intense like a hot, dry summer, while others are long and take time to develop over multiple seasons.

    Read more here: Drought explained – Creating a better place

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    Updates to this page

    Published 29 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Canada: Cathedral Park will partially reopen to hikers

    Cathedral Park will partially reopen for hiking and backcountry camping in selected areas on Friday, June 20, 2025, providing access to lakes located in the core area.

    Reservations have been added to the popular Quiniscoe Lake backcountry campground in the core area of the park, and will be required during the peak camping season from June 27 to Sept. 20, 2025. People can reserve one of the 30 tent pads at the lake starting at 7 a.m. (Pacific time) on Tuesday, June 3, online: https://bcparks.ca/reservations/

    Outside of peak season, people will need to register and pay online for camping at Quiniscoe Lake.

    Quiniscoe Lake is accessible only by hiking the 14-kilometre Lakeview Trail or the 20-km Centennial (Wall Creek) Trail. Other areas of the park that will open on June 20 include the vehicle-accessible Buckhorn and Lakeview campgrounds, along with five other trails: Scout Lake, Diamond, Glacier Lake, Ladyslipper and the Rim Trails. Reservations are not required for Buckhorn or Lakeview campgrounds.

    Located southwest of Keremeos, Cathedral Park is an approximately 33,3000-hectare (82,200 acres) wilderness area between the Cascade Mountains and the Okanagan Valley. The park has been closed since August 2023 due to the Crater Creek wildfire that caused significant damage to several trails and destroyed two other backcountry campgrounds in the core area of the park: Lake of the Woods and Pyramid campgrounds.

    The bridge that provided vehicle access to the core area of the park was destroyed by the fire and is scheduled to be replaced this summer. To ensure public safety, some trails in the park that were adversely affected by the fire will remain closed as restoration work continues.   

    Learn More:

    For more information about Cathedral Park and to view what areas are open for hiking and camping, visit:
    https://bcparks.ca/cathedral-park/

    For more information about backcountry reservations and permits, visit:
    https://bcparks.ca/reservations/backcountry-camping/permit-registration/

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: H.R. 1098, a bill to reauthorize the Junior Duck Stamp Conservation and Design Program Act of 1994

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    H.R. 1098 would reauthorize the appropriation of $350,000 annually from 2025 through 2031 period for the U.S Fish and Wildlife Service to administer the Junior Duck Stamp program. The program supports conservation education and hosts an annual national art competition for high school students. The winning design is featured on the junior duck stamp sold by the Department of the Interior. Under current law, the authorized funding for the program expired in 2010 and no money has been provided for the program in recent years.

    Assuming appropriation of the specified amount each year, CBO estimates that implementing H.R. 1098 would cost $2 million over the 2025-2030 period.

    The CBO staff contact for this estimate is Kelly Durand. The estimate was reviewed by H. Samuel Papenfuss, Deputy Director of Budget Analysis.

    Phillip L. Swagel

    Director, Congressional Budget Office

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: S. 433, National Manufacturing Advisory Council Act

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    S. 433 would require the Department of Commerce to establish a National Manufacturing Advisory Council to propose solutions to problems affecting U.S. manufacturing, provide advice about federal programs that affect manufacturing, and produce an annual strategic manufacturing plan. The bill also would transfer the functions of the U.S. Manufacturing Council at the department to the new advisory council. The new council would include members with manufacturing experience in private industry. The council would sunset between five and six years after its first meeting.

    Based on the cost of similar advisory committees, CBO estimates that operating the council would cost less than $500,000 for staff salaries, travel costs, and other expenses; any related spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds.

    The CBO staff contact for this estimate is Zunara Naeem. The estimate was reviewed by H. Samuel Papenfuss, Deputy Director of Budget Analysis.

    Phillip L. Swagel

    Director, Congressional Budget Office

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: S. 748, a bill to reaffirm the applicability of the Indian Reorganization Act to the Lytton Rancheria of California, and for other purposes

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    S. 748 would clarify that the Department of the Interior has the authority to take land into trust for the Lytton Rancheria of California under the Indian Reorganization Act. The bill also would deem lands that are taken into trust under that act to be part of the tribe’s reservation and administered accordingly.

    Based on the cost of similar activities, CBO estimates that the administrative costs to implement S. 748 would be insignificant; any related spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds.

    The CBO staff contact for this estimate is Margot Berman. The estimate was reviewed by H. Samuel Papenfuss, Deputy Director of Budget Analysis.

    Phillip L. Swagel

    Director, Congressional Budget Office

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: CBO’s Panel of Health Advisers, 2025

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    The Congressional Budget Office’s Panel of Health Advisers consists of widely recognized experts in health policy and the health care sector. Members of the panel have a variety of backgrounds, areas of expertise, and experience. CBO hosts an annual meeting of the panel so that its members can discuss important issues in their areas of expertise and advise the agency on its analysis. In addition, CBO engages with members of the panel throughout the year. The agency may, for example, call on them for advice about how to address analytical questions that arise in the preparation of studies and cost estimates. Through that engagement, CBO and its analysis benefit from the advisers’ understanding of cutting-edge research and the latest real-world developments in health care delivery and financing. Although the advisers provide considerable assistance, they bear no responsibility for CBO’s work; that responsibility rests solely with the agency.

    Today, I would like to announce the members of the Panel of Health Advisers for the coming year:

    • Katherine Baicker
    • Michael Chernew
    • Jeffrey Clemens
    • Heather Dlugolenski
    • Marisa Domino
    • Erin Fraher
    • Craig Garthwaite
    • Darrell Gaskin
    • John Haupert
    • Anne Karl
    • Lisa Lee
    • Thomas Lee
    • Patricia MacTaggart
    • David Meltzer
    • Sergio Santiviago
    • Kosali Simon
    • Neeraj Sood
    • Cori Uccello
    • Melanie Whittington

    Members of CBO’s Panel of Health Advisers are selected to represent a variety of perspectives, enabling the agency to gather information and insights from experts with diverse views and from their interactions at periodic panel meetings. The panelists’ affiliations are shown on CBO’s website. CBO requires panelists to disclose to the agency any substantial political activity in which they may be involved and any significant financial interests that they may have.

    CBO also has a Panel of Economic Advisers.

    Phillip L. Swagel is CBO’s Director.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: CBO’s Panel of Economic Advisers, 2025

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    The Congressional Budget Office relies on many outside experts. For example, the agency works with its Panel of Economic Advisers to learn about important analytical issues in the advisers’ areas of expertise and to obtain feedback about the agency’s economic forecast. In addition, from time to time during the year, CBO calls on members of the panel for advice about how to address analytical questions that arise when preparing studies and cost estimates. Although such experts provide considerable assistance, CBO is solely responsible for the accuracy of its work.

    Members of the panel generally serve two-year terms and can be reappointed. Today, I would like to announce the current members of the Panel of Economic Advisers:

    • Alan Auerbach
    • Markus Brunnermeier
    • Seth Carpenter
    • Kathryn Dominguez
    • Karen Dynan
    • Robert Hall
    • Glenn Hubbard
    • Donald Kohn
    • Gregory Mankiw
    • Giuseppe Moscarini
    • Emi Nakamura
    • Jonathan Parker
    • James Poterba
    • Valerie Ramey
    • Joshua Rauh
    • Brian Sack
    • Ayșegül Șahin
    • James Stock
    • Kevin Warsh
    • Mark Zandi

    Members of CBO’s Panel of Economic Advisers are selected to represent a variety of perspectives, enabling the agency to gather information and insights from experts with diverse views and from their interactions at periodic panel meetings. The panelists’ affiliations are shown on CBO’s website. CBO requires panelists to disclose to the agency any substantial political activity in which they may be involved and any significant financial interests that they may have.

    CBO also has a Panel of Health Advisers.

    Phillip L. Swagel is CBO’s Director.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Wildfire Management Balances Wildfire Prevention and Ponderosa Pine Regrowth

    Source: US Geological Survey

    Ponderosa pines are the most widely distributed pine species in North America. To lower wildfire risk in ponderosa pine forests, land managers in the region often thin small trees, clear out debris, and use controlled burns to reduce the forest’s understory. While these methods are effective for reducing wildfire risk, their impact on natural tree regrowth is less clear.  

    A team of scientists, funded in part by the Southwest CASC, examined 77 forest sites in the Southwestern U.S., each with different histories of forest management – from thinning and prescribed burns to no interventions at all. Working closely with local forest managers, the scientists combined field observations, meteorological estimates, and water balance modeling to evaluate how these management strategies and climate conditions shaped ponderosa pine regeneration in these forests over the past 20 years.  

    Their study found that, despite increasingly unfavorable climatic conditions, managed forests generally had stronger natural regeneration of ponderosa pine, usually occurring 5-10 years after treatment due to a reduction in competition between plant species, a changing forest structure and overall improved environmental conditions. However, not all outcomes were ideal. In 21% of the managed sites, trees regenerated too well, meaning they regenerated to excessively high densities that could increase future fire risk and may require follow-up treatments. Regeneration success was also influenced by temperature and soil moisture, the density of competing tree species, the amount of understory litter and debris cover, and cone production by mature trees.  

    The takeaway: forest management strategies like thinning and burning can support both wildfire prevention and forest regeneration. However, continued monitoring and modifications are needed to support effective management application. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: Birmingham Man Sentenced to More than Three Years in Prison for Robbery

    Source: US FBI

    BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – A Birmingham man has been sentenced for his role in the robbery of a Hibbett Sports Distribution Center, announced U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona.

    U.S. District Court Judge Madeline H. Haikala sentenced Mario Autwun Scott, 42, to 45 months in prison. In November 2024, Scott pleaded guilty to conspiracy to interfere with commerce by robbery and interference with commerce by threats or violence.

    Michael Anthony Pippens, 42, of Birmingham, Scott’s co-conspirator in the robbery, was previously sentenced to 30 months in prison. In January 2025, Pippens pleaded guilty to conspiracy to interfere with commerce by robbery. 

    According to court documents, in October 2022, Scott robbed the Hibbett Sports Distribution Center in Shelby County, stealing two trailers full of sporting goods merchandise worth over $84,000.  Prior to the robbery, Pippens provided a box truck to Scott so that he could transport the stolen goods.  

    The FBI investigated the case along with the Alabaster Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Darius C. Greene and Lloyd C. Peeples prosecuted the case. 

    MIL Security OSI –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: Kansas City Man Sentenced to 12 Years for Fentanyl Trafficking, Illegal Firearms

    Source: US FBI

    KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man has been sentenced in federal court for possessing fentanyl with the intent to distribute and possessing firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking.

    James Paden, 63, was sentenced by U.S. Chief District Judge Beth Phillips on Tuesday, May 27, to 12 years in federal prison without parole. Paden was sentenced as a career offender due to his prior felony convictions.

    On Nov. 18, 2024, Paden pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and one count of possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

    On Feb. 22, 2024, investigators of the Kansas City, Mo. Police Department executed a search warrant on Paden’s residence after a confidential informant purchased tablets labeled “M30”, which contain fentanyl, from Paden on three occasions.  Investigators found a total of over 60 grams of fentanyl, 22 grams of cocaine, and 1 gram of methamphetamine.  Investigators also found a Smith & Wesson, .38 caliber revolver, a Taurus, G2 Millenium, 9mm semi-automatic pistol, a privately manufactured 9mm semi-automatic pistol with no serial number, with a Louis Vuitton design, and $1,000 in cash.

    This case was prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica L. Jennings.  It was investigated by the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department and the FBI.

    Project Safe Neighborhoods

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    MIL Security OSI –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: Missouri Man Pleads Guilty to Multimillion-Dollar Medicare Fraud Conspiracy

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    A Missouri man pleaded guilty today to orchestrating a scheme to defraud Medicare by unlawfully billing millions of dollars in claims for cancer genetic testing and cardiovascular genetic testing. 

    According to court documents, Jamie P. McNamara, 49, of Kansas City, operated several laboratories in Louisiana and Texas, which obtained doctors’ orders for genetic testing from telemarketers and call centers that used aggressive telemarketing campaigns to induce Medicare beneficiaries to agree to receive genetic testing. Orders for genetic testing were signed by purported telemedicine doctors who were not the beneficiaries’ treating physicians, did not perform consultations with the beneficiaries, and did not follow up with the beneficiaries after the testing was performed. To obtain the orders, McNamara paid illegal kickbacks and bribes, which he disguised through sham contracts. In furtherance of the scheme, he also shifted the billing between his laboratories to evade scrutiny from Medicare and law enforcement and concealed his ownership and control of the laboratories by falsely listing the names of his family members as owners and company representatives on Medicare and other documents. In approximately one and a half years, the laboratories operated by McNamara submitted over $174 million in claims to Medicare for genetic testing and received over $55 million in reimbursements. The government previously seized several luxury vehicles and over $7 million in bank accounts.

    “The defendant used illegal payments and lies to fraudulently bill Medicare over $174 million,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Health care fraud harms patients, drains government resources, and violates the public trust. The Criminal Division is fully committed to uncovering and aggressively prosecuting these schemes.”    

    “This guilty plea marks the conclusion of a meticulous and complicated prosecution,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson for the Eastern District of Louisiana. “Medicare fraud schemes profoundly erode taxpayer confidence and faith in our medical institutions. Schemes such as these must be rooted out, investigated and prosecuted, not only for the monetary loss triggered by the fraud, but also to preserve the public’s trust. Our office, along with our investigative partners, will continue to work diligently to maintain taxpayer confidence in our federal institutions and seek justice for all victims of fraud.”

    “McNamara lined his pockets by preying on vulnerable Americans concerned about their health. The genetic tests Medicare patients were lured into receiving did not provide them with any answers on their predisposition to life threatening illnesses and cost taxpayers millions of dollars,” said Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Tapp of the FBI New Orleans Field Office. “Today’s plea is the culmination of thorough investigative work and partnership between the FBI and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) to protect the public and ensure that justice is served.”

    “Misleading patients with fraudulent genetic testing schemes to exploit the Medicare program is not just unethical — it’s criminal,” said Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Christian J. Schrank of HHS-OIG. “Today’s plea reflects HHS-OIG’s steadfast commitment to holding those who deceive patients and seek to cripple the integrity of our nation’s federal health care programs accountable. We will continue to collaborate with our law enforcement partners to investigate such schemes and bring those responsible to justice.”

    While on pretrial release, McNamara violated his bond conditions by, among other things, fleeing from a DUI arrest and cutting off an ankle monitor. He was subsequently detained.

    McNamara pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit health care fraud. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Sept. 9 and faces up to 10 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    HHS-OIG and the FBI are investigating the case.

    Assistant Chief Justin M. Woodard and Trial Attorney Kelly Z. Walters of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas Moses for the Eastern District of Louisiana are prosecuting the case.

    The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of 9 strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,800 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $30 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.

    MIL Security OSI –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Economics: Microsoft reaches key milestones of its 2030 sustainability goals

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: Microsoft reaches key milestones of its 2030 sustainability goals

    Today, Microsoft published its 2025 Environmental Sustainability Report. This report covers our fiscal year 2024, and measures progress against our 2020 baseline. You can read the foreword below and explore the report in its entirety here.

    As Microsoft continues to grow and innovate, our commitment to environmental sustainability remains a core value. This year, we reflect on our progress towards our ambitious 2030 goals: to be carbon negative, water positive, and zero waste, while protecting ecosystems. As we enter the second half of the decade, Microsoft remains steadfast in our dedication to achieving the company’s 2030 environmental sustainability commitments.

    Since we announced our goals in 2020, we have made meaningful progress while seeing major changes in both the technology sector and in our understanding of what it will take to meet our goals. We are learning as we go, and we are proactively working to address sustainability challenges and accelerate solutions. We remain resolute in our commitment not only to meeting our climate goals but also to empowering others with the technology they need to build a more sustainable future.

    At the heart of our approach is an understanding that sustainability is not simply a set of isolated initiatives, but a fundamental principle that must be integrated into every aspect of our business. Our cross-company Climate Council brings together leaders from across Microsoft to drive innovation, accelerate progress, and identify ways to build sustainability into our operations, products, and partnerships.

    We remain pragmatically optimistic because of the promise of new sustainability technologies, innovations in AI, and market solutions that are emerging which can accelerate progress across challenging sectors like steel, concrete, and energy transitions. This annual report is our opportunity to share our learnings to help accelerate these markets, be transparent about our progress, and explore how we can ultimately scale solutions across our value chain.

    We are sharing details about the progress made in each of our core commitment areas: carbon negative, water positive, zero waste, and protecting ecosystems. Our report also highlights a number of our breakthrough innovations, drawing insights from the leading edge of climate innovation.

    Our progress

    In 2020, Microsoft made bold sustainability commitments. At this halfway point to our 2030 goals, we are reaching key milestones and making progress that includes:

    • Ecosystems. In 2022, we met our target of protecting more land than we use by 2025, a target we’ve since exceeded by more than 30%. AI innovation is now driving biodiversity conservation through research efforts led by the AI for Good Lab and tools like the Microsoft Planetary Computer.
    • Zero waste. We exceeded our annual target to divert 75% of construction and demolition waste six years early by diverting 85% of this waste in FY24. We have also surpassed our target for our reuse and recycling rate for servers and components, reaching 90.9%. The Surface Copilot+ PCs now feature our most sustainable packaging design yet. Packaging from over 30,000 server racks was processed through recycling programs in FY24—diverting over 2,500 metric tons of waste from landfills.
    • Water positive. We met our target to provide more than 1.5 million people with clean water and sanitation solutions. We are also on track to replenish more water than we consume across global operations and improve datacenter water use efficiency, including through a new innovative datacenter design that optimizes AI workloads and consumes zero water for cooling to avoid the use of an estimated 125,000 cubic meters annually per facility.
    • Carbon negative. To date, we have contracted 34 gigawatts (GW) of carbon-free electricity (CFE) across 24 countries, about an eighteenfold increase since 2020. We have also entered long-term agreements to procure nearly 30 million metric tons of carbon removal since the start of this program.

    Carbon negative: a marathon, not a sprint

    As we remain focused on sustained progress towards our 2030 goals, it has become clear that our journey towards being carbon negative is a marathon, not a sprint. While our total emissions (Scope 1, 2, and 3) have increased by 23.4% compared to our 2020 baseline due to growth-related factors such as AI and cloud expansion, we are encouraged by the fact that this increase has been modest compared to the 168% increase in energy use and 71% revenue growth that has taken place over the same period.

    For Microsoft to be carbon negative by 2030, we will need to reduce our value chain emissions. Starting with our direct operational emissions, as we shared earlier this year, since 2012 our carbon strategy has included a combination of procuring environmental attributes leveraging our corporate carbon fee and overall carbon emissions reduction efforts. This enabled us to decrease our Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 29.9% from our 2020 baseline in FY24. At the same time, as we shift away from procuring non-additional environmental attribute certificates, we recognize that we must also bring more carbon-free electricity onto the grids where we operate.

    We are also implementing strategies to reduce our Scope 3 emissions by 2030, which increased in FY24 by 26% from our 2020 baseline. We are prioritizing addressing these emissions through supplier engagement programs including establishing standards via our Supplier Code of Conduct. Through the latter, select large-scale Microsoft suppliers are required to transition to 100% carbon-free electricity for their delivered goods and services as well as forthcoming guidance, launching in July, to target usage of sustainable aviation fuel, where possible, for Microsoft business-related air travel by 2030. We also remain committed to developing and supporting innovative solutions to reduce emissions from key datacenter and operational inputs including building materials, chips, and fuels, focusing on long-term solutions over short-term stopgaps. To do this, we have been adapting our strategies to use new sustainability technologies and address the challenges of expanding energy demand.

    We see significant progress in several key areas, demonstrating potential for global impact:

    Powering operations with carbon-free electricity (CFE):

    In 2024, Microsoft contracted 19 GW of new renewable energy across 16 countries through power purchase agreements (PPAs), which are central to our carbon reduction strategy, driving down our Scope 2 emissions. Microsoft has taken a first-mover approach to making long-term investments to bring more CFE online.

    We continue to advocate for expanding clean energy solutions globally to support not only our power needs but also those of our supply chain. We are addressing challenges with permitting, interconnection delays, and fluctuating interest rates by innovating through circularity and contracting. For example, we signed groundbreaking PPAs with Engie requiring that 100% of photovoltaic modules will be reused or recycled.

    Transforming datacenters and campuses:

    In FY24, we launched our first datacenters constructed with mass timber, a strong, ultra-lightweight wood in a hybrid construction model. This approach is projected to reduce the embodied carbon footprint of these new datacenters by up to 65% compared to typical precast concrete. We also doubled our rate of power savings and are transitioning from traditional air-cooled datacenters to chip-level liquid cooling designs at all owned datacenters. As the World Economic Forum highlighted in Innovation and Adaptation in the Climate Crisis, “Data-driven and digital technologies are uniquely suited to build adaptive capacity.”

    We believe technology can be a powerful tool to address some of society’s toughest challenges, including environmental sustainability. As demand for AI and cloud services grows, we are advancing how we design, build, and operate our datacenters and campuses. Decarbonizing the built environment is a crucial element in this process.

    Accelerating carbon removal initiatives:

    In FY24, Microsoft signed long-term agreements to procure more carbon removal than all previous years combined, achieving nearly 22 million metric tons in contracts for carbon removal. We are committed to helping build the markets we buy from, translating leading science into commercial innovation and regularly updating our Criteria for High-Quality Carbon Dioxide Removal. We also know we cannot accelerate this market alone, which is why we co-founded the Symbiosis Coalition with industry partners. The Symbiosis Coalition is targeting up to 20 million metric tons of high-quality, nature-based carbon removal credits by 2030.

    Improving operational efficiency and logistics:

    In FY24, among facilities that manufacture devices for Microsoft, we saw a tenfold increase over the previous year in transitions to 100% CFE. This was accomplished, in part, by partnering with 3Degrees to launch the Supplier REach portal to support suppliers making their CFE transition. Our drive to reduce datacenter emissions extends to transforming the logistics operations of these facilities.

    Through strategic partnerships and targeted initiatives, Microsoft continues to reduce emissions across transportation, warehousing, and the broader logistics supply chain, setting new benchmarks for operational efficiency and environmental impact. We adopted alternative fuels and electric vehicles to reduce emissions, collaborating with several leading logistics service providers (LSPs).

    Renewable diesel is now in use in our road freight operations in Europe and California, cutting emissions by 50% for these shipments while keeping existing equipment in use. We also have partnered with airlines and shipping lines to expand the use of sustainable aviation and marine fuels. These efforts have reduced emissions by over 17,000 metric tons of CO2 emissions, comparable to avoiding the combustion of nearly 40,000 barrels of oil.[1]

    Accelerating global solutions

    At Microsoft, we understand that driving meaningful sustainability progress goes beyond our own practices and requires global collaboration, investment, and innovation. Across our operations, we are working to empower customers, build impactful partnerships, and invest in breakthrough solutions that drive progress worldwide.

    • Investing in innovation: A hallmark of this effort has been our Climate Innovation Fund (CIF)—our $1 billion commitment set in 2020 to advance innovation beyond Microsoft’s four walls. To date, CIF has made significant investments in innovative climate technologies including commercial direct air capture technologies, sustainable aviation fuel, industrial decarbonization, and more. CIF has invested over $793 million in capital in new climate technologies, expanding to 63 investments across CFE, sustainable fuels, carbon removal, and advanced building materials.
    • Empowering customers: We help customers and organizations centralize, analyze, and act on their data with AI-powered platforms for advanced analytics and reporting insights. For example, the Howden Resilience Laboratory supported by Microsoft and our Planetary Computer uses technology and data platforms to help investors understand climate risks to critical infrastructure, improve resilience, and contribute to better-informed investment decisions.
    • Partnering for impact: Partnering to scale our impact is a critical component of our sustainability efforts. Today GitHub fosters a thriving community that is home to over 150 million developers and 60,000 climate-focused open-source projects, advancing climate technology, greener software, and device sustainability. Xbox has made significant investments not only to reduce the environmental footprint associated with the production of our devices, accessories, and console packaging, but also to reduce the energy usage of the console itself. For example, Xbox became the first console to release a dedicated energy consumption and carbon emissions measurement tool designed for game creators.
    • Accelerating AI for sustainability: Our AI for Good Lab, sustainability science, and research teams collaborate globally to accelerate solutions and develop climate resilience with AI. For example, we have partnered with the United Nations to apply AI to climate challenges through programs like the Early Warnings for All initiative, which seeks to better understand which populations may be at risk of extreme weather events and other threats. By sharing our progress, tools, and learnings with the world, we aim to accelerate the pace of innovation, improve overall operational efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and find new solutions with long-term results.

    Sustained momentum and future impact

    There is no issue today that connects everyone on the planet more than climate change. As we strive to build a more sustainable future, we remain inspired by the dedication of our employees and partners and committed to transparency, accountability, and collaboration.

    While the road to a sustainable future is challenging and not linear, we are encouraged by the progress we have made in FY24. By strategically focusing on CFE, carbon removal, water stewardship, waste reduction, and ecosystem protection, we are building an efficient, sustainable engine that drives us closer to our commitments.

    We encourage you to read further to learn more about our progress and learnings across all of these areas, and we look forward to engaging in continued dialogue as we learn and develop new ways to help us meet our goals. We will continue to adapt our strategies, utilize emerging sustainability markets, and scale innovative technologies for even greater impact.

    We recognize that achieving our ambitious goals requires sustained momentum, and we are dedicated to driving that momentum forward.

    [1] This estimate is calculated based on the EPA estimate of the typical passenger vehicle emitting 4.6 tons of carbon dioxide per year.

    Tags: Environmental Sustainability, Environmental Sustainability Report, Microsoft Sustainability Manager, sustainability

    MIL OSI Economics –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Global: Surge of ICE agreements with local police aim to increase deportations, but many police forces have found they undermine public safety

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By W. Carsten Andresen, Associate Professor of Criminal Justice, St. Edward’s University

    A Kinney County sheriff’s deputy arrests an undocumented immigrant who was pulled over in March 2023 in Brackettville, Texas. Jabin Botsford/The Washington Post via Getty Images

    During his first few months in office, President Donald Trump has been establishing a framework for deporting undocumented immigrants en masse. It’s something he has previously vowed will be “the largest deportation operation in the history of our country.”

    Part of that operation includes what’s known as the federal 287(g) program. Established in 1996, it allows U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, whose work is normally carried out by federal officials, to train state and local authorities to function as federal immigration officers.

    Under 287(g), for example, local police officers can interview people to determine their immigration status. They can also issue immigration detainers to jail people until agents with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement take custody.

    “Illegal immigration has wide-ranging consequences, including a troubling surge of dangerous drugs into our state,” T.K. Waters, sheriff of Jacksonville, Florida, said in a February 2025 statement to explain his office’s participation in 287(g). “We remain committed to partnering with President Trump’s administration and our federal counterparts to secure our borders, protect Floridians, and establish a framework for the rest of the nation to follow.”

    Local police authorities across the country – from Jackson County, Texas, to Frederick County, Maryland – are participating in 287(g) for similar reasons.

    Since Trump began his second term in January, ICE has increased 287(g) agreements from 135 in 25 states in December 2024 to 628 in 40 states as of May 28, 2025.

    As a criminal justice scholar, I believe the surge of 287(g) agreements sets a dangerous precedent for local policing, where forging relationships and building the trust of immigrants is a proven and effective tactic in combating crime. In my view, the expansion of 287(g) will erode that trust and makes entire communities – not just immigrants – less safe.

    Past federal-local cooperation

    There is a long history of federal authorities collaborating with local police to enforce immigration laws.

    During the Great Depression, federal officials blamed Latinos for taking American jobs, and local agencies helped them deport up to 1.8 million people to Mexico. It’s estimated that 60% of those deported were U.S. citizens.

    In the early 1930s, local police participated in immigration raids in California and other states. As author Adam Goodman details in his book “The Deportation Machine,” state and local government agencies, including social workers, welfare agencies and police, acted as “de facto immigration agents.”

    Trump’s mass deportation plan mirrors President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s 1954 federal immigration initiative, which resulted in 1.3 million deportations.

    As author Natalia Molina notes in her book “How Race is Made in America,” local police often served as “immigration cops” in Eisenhower’s program because the federal government “did not have enough agents to cover such a large territory” as the U.S.

    During his two terms, President Barack Obama deported over 5 million people and used the 287(g) program to help him do that, primarily to target jailed or recently arrived undocumented people. Obama’s use of 287(g) peaked at 76 agreements during his first term but dropped to 35 during his second term.

    A Justice Department investigation launched in 2008 found the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office in Arizona engaged in unconstitutional law enforcement actions against Latinos. The Justice Department found that the sheriff’s office engaged in a pattern of “unlawful seizures, including unjustified stops, detentions, and arrests, of Latinos in violation of the Fourth Amendment.”

    Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio looks on as inmates are moved in Phoenix, Ariz., in April 2009.
    Joshua Lott/Getty Images

    Power of local policing

    Forty states have adopted 287(g) agreements as of May 2025.

    This could have effects outside of the immigration laws.

    In the past 45 years, many law enforcement professionals in urban areas have highlighted the importance of forging relationships and building trust with immigrant communities. That’s because the police depend on the participation of all citizens to prevent crime and solve criminal investigations.

    But police departments across the U.S. have found that 287(g) partnerships erode that trust.

    In 1979, Los Angeles Police Chief Daryl Gates created Special Order 40 that prohibited local officers from enforcing immigration laws in response to community complaints alleging discrimination against Latinos. Gates issued the order “to encourage immigrants to cooperate with police and build community trust.”

    Other large police departments followed. In places such as Chicago and San Francisco, they shifted focus from helping federal immigration officials to prioritizing community relationships.

    William Bratton, who led six police departments, including in Boston, Los Angeles and New York, criticized 287(g) in a 2009 op-ed. He said that deputizing local officers to enforce immigration laws immediately “undermines their core public safety mission.”

    Conservative police scholar George Kelling, co-author of the broken windows theory, which presumes that visible signs of disorder can lead to crime, also expressed support for local police agencies prioritizing their community relationships.

    In a 1999 study, Kelling highlighted a San Diego police memo announcing its refusal to enforce federal immigration laws. The San Diego Police Department, he wrote, “thought through its values, mission, and functions and elaborated a policy that put public safety and harmony above aggressive attempts to ferret out undocumented aliens.”

    During Trump’s first administration, some police chiefs echoed Bratton and Kelling. They warned that employing local officers to enforce immigration measures could spark fear and damage public safety.

    Former Seattle Police Chief Kathleen O’Toole stated in 2016 that Seattle police officers were prohibited from “inquiring about a person’s immigration status.”

    And former Milwaukee Police Chief Ed Flynn announced in 2016 that his department does not enforce immigration law.

    He added, “It is our opinion, our strongly held belief that our responsibility is to protect the residents of our city. To protect them, they must trust us, they must be willing to report crimes, they must be willing to be witnesses.”

    A Cameron County sheriff’s officer puts handcuffs on a suspected undocumented immigrant detained during a traffic stop in South Texas.
    Robert Daemmrich Photography Inc/Corbis via Getty Images

    Consequences of 287(g)

    President Trump has frequently linked immigrants with higher crime rates, calling them murderers and rapists.

    But multiple studies have found that undocumented people commit fewer crimes than U.S. citizens.

    Although the Trump administration is expanding the use of local police in immigration enforcement, research casts doubt on using mass deportation as a crime reduction strategy.

    A 2018 study on 287(g) from the libertarian Cato Institute found no evidence that ICE-led partnerships with local police decreased crime rates.

    And a 2014 study on the Secure Communities Program, which calls for local police agencies to share arrestee information with federal immigration officials, found that this program has “no discernible impact” on crime in medium and large municipalities.

    The Trump administration’s expansion of 287(g) ignores the shift that some big city police departments have made away from immigration enforcement in favor of community policing. And I believe it threatens to undermine the relationship between local police and the increasingly diverse communities they serve.

    W. Carsten Andresen was employed in the past (2000-2003) at The Police Institute, a Rutger’s University Think Tank run by George L. Kelling.

    – ref. Surge of ICE agreements with local police aim to increase deportations, but many police forces have found they undermine public safety – https://theconversation.com/surge-of-ice-agreements-with-local-police-aim-to-increase-deportations-but-many-police-forces-have-found-they-undermine-public-safety-255937

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: John James Introduces Securing America’s Critical Minerals Supply Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John James (Michigan 10th District)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman John James (MI-10) introduced the Securing America’s Critical Minerals Supply Act to the U.S. House of Representatives. The legislation redefines “critical energy resource” to empower the Department of Energy with a clear mandate: to secure the supply of minerals essential to our energy sector. The bill is being co-led by Rep. Jay Obernolte (R-CA) and Rep. Mariannette Miller Meeks (R-IA).

    From manufacturing to AI, the demand for critical minerals is skyrocketing. Yet, for too long, misguided policies have left the United States reliant on foreign adversaries for these resources, jeopardizing our energy security and economic potential.

    Rep. James issued the following statement regarding his legislation:

    “This bill is a bold step toward ensuring the United States leads in energy innovation, security, and independence. We cannot be the ‘land of the free’ if we choose to rely on critical mineral supply chains that are dependent on child and slave labor. This is about unleashing American energy—powering our factories, fueling innovation, and securing our future. The Securing America’s Critical Minerals Supply Act is a cornerstone for reshoring manufacturing, reducing dependence on foreign dictators and despots, and building an energy-independent America. I urge my colleagues to support this bill and unleash the full potential of American energy.”

    Specifically, the bill would:

    • Amend the Department of Energy (DOE) Organization Act to require the Secretary of Energy to conduct an ongoing assessment of the nation’s supply of critical energy resources, the vulnerability of the critical energy resource supply chains, and the energy security considerations of critical energy resources in the development of energy technologies.
    • Direct the Secretary to strengthen critical energy resource supply chains by diversifying sourcing and increasing domestic production, refining, and processing of resources.
    • Redefine the term “critical energy resource” to mean any energy resource that is essential to the energy sector and energy systems of the United States and the supply chain of which is vulnerable to disruption.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Lawler, Riley Introduce Bill to Support Veterans Exposed to PFAS

    Source: US Congressman Mike Lawler (R, NY-17)

    Washington, D.C. – 5/29/25… Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) and Congressman Josh Riley (NY-19) introduced the VET PFAS Act today, bipartisan legislation that ensures veterans and their families exposed to toxic per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) at military installations receive the health care and disability benefits they have earned through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

    The VET PFAS Act will:

    • Designate PFAS exposure as a service-connected condition for affected veterans;

    • Require the VA to provide health care and benefits for medical conditions associated with PFAS exposure;

    • Ensure military families have access to the care and support they need.

    “Our veterans have sacrificed so much in defense of our freedoms. We must honor that sacrifice with concrete action to support them once they’ve come home,” said Congressman Lawler, a member of the Bipartisan Congressional PFAS Task Force. “Too many of our brave veterans were stationed at military facilities where they were unknowingly exposed to toxic PFAS chemicals. The VET PFAS Act will deliver long-overdue care to those who have already given this nation so much.”

    “In Upstate New York’s 19th District, we have over 30,000 veterans who answered the call to serve our nation, and we owe them more than just our thanks; we owe them the care they need,” said Congressman Josh Riley. “The VET PFAS Act is about stepping up and ensuring these servicemembers and veterans finally get the healthcare and benefits they’ve earned, without further delay.”

    Studies have linked PFAS exposure to serious health risks, including cancer, liver and kidney disease, high cholesterol, hypertension, thyroid disorders, and other chronic conditions. With PFAS contamination documented at more than 700 military bases across the globe, the burden falls disproportionately on veterans and their families.

    Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York’s 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.

    ###

    Full text of the bill can be found HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Canada: Housing targets deliver more than 16,000 homes, new priority communities added

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    More people are finding homes as the Province and municipalities boost housing delivery through targets, with new communities joining the program.

    Housing targets have delivered 16,130 net new homes, built across the first 30 priority municipalities. In 2023, the Province implemented the Housing Supply Act, which enabled government to establish housing targets for communities based on areas of greatest need and highest projected growth. Achieving the targets within five years will help communities address projected population growth and local housing demands.

    “I appreciate that these communities in the next group are already making progress in building more housing for people. Setting housing targets allows us to further align with our broader goals as a province,” said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs. “As we add new communities to the housing targets program to keep up with demand, we will continue to work together with municipalities to make sure more people can find homes that fit their needs and budgets. We’re also delivering real results – more than 16,000 homes have now been built through housing targets and thousands more are on the way.”

    A fourth group of priority communities will soon be given housing targets, after targets were announced in 2024 for the second and third sets of priority communities. Many in the fourth group are already leaders in building more homes. By joining the housing targets program, they will demonstrate that all communities, big and small, have a vital role to play in addressing the housing crisis.

    The group will include Burnaby, Coquitlam, Courtenay, Township of Langley, Langford, Penticton, Pitt Meadows, Richmond, Squamish and Vernon. Targets for these communities will be set following consultation and will reflect 75% of each municipality’s estimated housing need.

    “Burnaby has been proactive in delivering the housing our community needs,” said Mike Hurley, mayor of Burnaby. “By streamlining our planning process and reducing barriers, we’ve increased our housing starts. In 2024, we issued permits for more than 2,300 homes, and so far this year we have issued permits for more than 4,000 more.”

    In addition, to ensure people benefit from more homes being built faster, the Province is expanding the list of communities that may receive housing targets. Twelve communities with high demand, low vacancy rates and limited housing availability are being added to the list. Three of these communities are already included in the fourth set of priority communities receiving targets.

    The new communities joining the list are Coldstream, Comox, Courtenay, Cumberland, Lake Country, Parksville, Peachland, Penticton, Qualicum Beach, Salmon Arm, Summerland, and Vernon. Many of these communities are already taking steps to increase housing supply. Joining the program will support them in accelerating homebuilding and meeting the needs of their growing populations.

    “Over the past two years, Penticton has advanced development by refining key policies and building strong partnerships with industry and community organizations,” said Julius Bloomfield, mayor of Penticton. “These efforts are delivering results, with many new housing units already approved and built. We welcome provincial support to help accelerate solutions that meet the urgent need for housing.”

    Building on the progress of the first 10 communities announced in 2024, which reported more than 8,300 homes built in their first year of targets, six-month progress reports from the second and third sets of priority communities show more than 7,800 net-new homes have been built. Many communities, including Central Saanich, Esquimalt, New Westminster and Kelowna, are trending toward exceeding their first-year housing targets. This shows strong local commitment to building the homes people need and planning for future growth aligned with the Province’s new housing policies.

    “Affordable housing is a top priority for our council, and locally we are taking action, already surpassing 38% of our five-year housing target in the first year,” said Tom Dyas, mayor of Kelowna. “As we increase housing options, we look forward to partnering with the Province to align infrastructure delivery with community growth.”

    Other communities are on track to meet their first-year targets with projects in the works. The Province will continue to support them as they accelerate approvals and meet the new provincial requirements, and will also monitor progress and consider next steps for municipalities that do not meet housing targets.

    The housing targets program is part of the Province’s Homes for People action plan to deliver more homes in B.C., building on its historic $19-billion housing investment. Since 2017, the Province has nearly 92,000 homes delivered or underway throughout B.C.

    Quotes:

    Nathan Pachal, mayor, City of Langley –

    “Langley City is proud to deliver a variety of housing for various needs. With an official community plan that aligns with provincial housing goals, we remain focused on getting homes built while preserving walkability and livability in our city. To support timely, high-quality housing delivery, we will continue to streamline our development processes, which remain among the most efficient in Metro Vancouver.”

    Patrick Johnstone, mayor, New Westminster –

    “Meeting the Province’s one-year housing target demonstrates New Westminster city council’s and staff’s commitment to addressing local needs across the housing spectrum. Staff’s work to streamline permitting, develop new funding tools and update zoning bylaws builds on our record of strong leadership in tackling the housing crisis.”

    Quick Facts:

    • To facilitate implementation of the housing targets and other initiatives, the Province has provided local governments with a range of resources and supports, such as:
      • the historic $1-billion Growing Communities Fund to help all 188 local governments address population growth;
      • $51 million in grant-based funding to support activities or projects, such as updating existing zoning bylaws, housing needs reports and official community plans; and
      • $10 million for a second intake of the Local Government Development Approvals Program administered by the Union of BC Municipalities.

    Learn More:

    To learn more about municipal housing targets, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/local-governments-and-housing/housing-targets

    To learn about the steps the Province is taking to tackle the housing crisis and deliver affordable homes for people in British Columbia, visit: https://strongerbc.gov.bc.ca/housing/

    A backgrounder follows.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Members of Washington Delegation Demand Answers regarding ICE Raid in Kent

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (7th District of Washington)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representatives Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Adam Smith (WA-09), Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Rick Larsen (WA-02), Emily Randall (WA-06), and Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) wrote to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, ICE Acting Director Todd Lyons, and IRS Acting Commissioner Michael Faulkender to express deep concern over the recent immigration enforcement raid in Kent, Washington and to demand immediate answers regarding the nature of the raid and individuals detained.

    The letter is copied in full below.

    Dear Secretary Noem, Acting Director Lyons, and Acting Commissioner Faulkender,

    We write to express our deep concern over the recent immigration enforcement raid in Kent, Washington and demand immediate answers regarding the nature of the raid and individuals detained.

    On May 20, officials from four federal agencies, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Criminal Investigation Division, arrested 17 people at Eagle Beverage and Accessories Products in Kent. Notably, this appears to be one of the first immigration raids involving IRS personnel.

    The Trump administration has repeatedly sought to portray its immigration enforcement efforts as focused on deporting violent criminals. Yet federal authorities have not noted any sort of violent criminal connection serving as a motivating factor behind the raid. Raids like this which arbitrarily target hardworking community members only serve to tear families apart, stoke fear, and undermine trust in local law enforcement. These actions inevitably have ripple effects throughout our country, causing people to avoid going to work or school out of fear and crippling our local economies.

    We request that you immediately provide answers to the following questions:

    1. How many individuals were arrested as part of the May 20 raid in Kent? Please provide details on their gender, age, nationality, immigration status, and reason for their arrest.
    2. Were there any collateral arrests?
    3. Had any of the arrested individuals previously received a form of prosecutorial discretion?
    4. Did any of the arrested individuals have a pending asylum claim?
    5. Are the arrested individuals now in custody at Northwest ICE Processing Center (NWIPC)? If not, where are they currently being held?
    6. Have the arrested individuals been given the opportunity to contact attorneys and family members?
    7. Have the arrested individuals been scheduled for a court date?
    8. Did ICE collaborate with state or local law enforcement agencies?
    9. What role did IRS personnel play in the raid?
    10. What training did IRS personnel receive to participate in the raid?
    11. Did the IRS share the taxpayer data of any of the individuals arrested with DHS prior to the arrests?
    12. How is the IRS’s participation in immigration raids impacting the agency’s ability to carry out its mission of investigating criminal violations of the Internal Revenue Code?

    We thank you for your attention to this matter and look forward to receiving your response.

    Sincerely,

    Issues: Immigration

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: As GOP Tries to Gut Medicaid and Attack Reproductive Healthcare, Pressley Reintroduces Bill Affirming Equitable Access to Reproductive Healthcare for People with Disabilities

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

    Resolution Designates “Disability Reproductive Equity Day” in May, Calls for Disability and Reproductive Justice Amid Trump’s Attacks on Healthcare

    This Month, Pressley Delivered Keynote at Center for American Progress’ Reproductive Equity Summit

    Resolution Text

    WASHINGTON – Today, as Republicans advance deep cuts to Medicaid and continued attacks on reproductive healthcare, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), in partnership with disability justice and reproductive justice advocates, reintroduced a resolution demanding equitable access to reproductive and sexual healthcare for people with disabilities, and designating a day in May as “Disability Reproductive Equity Day.”

    With Donald Trump and Republicans attempting to rip away healthcare for millions through cuts to Medicaid – which would be devastating for people with disabilities – the Disability Reproductive Equity Day resolution presents an affirmative vision for healthcare equity and demands increased access to reproductive and sexual healthcare for those with disabilities.

    The resolution enumerates the unique, discriminatory barriers that people with disabilities face in accessing critical reproductive and sexual healthcare, and calls for equitable access to healthcare and the right to reproductive and sexual health, autonomy, and freedom.

    “Bodily autonomy should be a fundamental right. The paths to true reproductive justice and disability justice are inextricably linked, and together we are pressing for the reproductive and sexual healthcare needs of people with disabilities,” said Rep. Ayanna Pressley. “While Donald Trump and Republicans push their Big, Ugly Bill that would strip healthcare from people with disabilities and those seeking reproductive healthcare, we are fighting back and recommitting ourselves to disability justice, to healthcare equity, and to reproductive freedom. I am proud to reintroduce the Disability Reproductive Equity Day resolution with disability justice and reproductive justice partners to demand a more just America.”

    The Disability Reproductive Equity Day resolution is endorsed by: National Partnership for Women & Families, Disability Culture Lab, American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD), New Disabled South, U.S. Gender and Disability Justice Alliance, The Reproductive Justice Collective at the Center for Racial and Disability Justice (CRDJ), Autistic Women and Nonbinary Network, Lurie Institute for Disability Policy at Brandeis University, Planned Parenthood Federation of America, the National Women’s Law Center, and the National Health Law Program.

    “Self-determination and bodily autonomy are core values of both the reproductive rights and disability rights movements, yet for too long, the discrimination and systemic barriers disabled people face when seeking sexual and reproductive health care have been ignored. People with disabilities have continually been denied the right of deciding if, when and how to start their families,” said Rolonda Donelson, Huber Reproductive Health Equity Legal Fellow for the National Partnership for Women & Families.

    “The National Partnership for Women & Families is proud to endorse the resolution to support the second-ever Disability Reproductive Equity Day, and we’re grateful to Rep. Ayanna Pressley for continuing the fight for the reproductive health care and rights of disabled people.”

    “Disability reproductive equity isn’t a niche issue; it’s a fundamental matter of human rights and public health. Disabled folks must be able to make informed choices about our bodies,” said Keidra Chaney, Program Director at Disability Culture Lab. “We need access to comprehensive reproductive health care without barriers, and to be able to parent without fear of discrimination or state interference. The current rise in eugenic laws that make even these basic rights impossible are an attack on disabled lives and reproductive rights. Disability justice and reproductive justice are one fight: we demand policies that prioritize our lives, freedom, access, and bodily autonomy.”

    “For disabled people, as for all people, access to comprehensive and quality sexual and reproductive healthcare is essential for their autonomy, their health and well-being, and their capacity for self-determination. No lawmaker or politician should be able to substitute their personal opinion for medical facts or treatments,” said the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD). “AAPD thanks Rep. Pressley for her leadership and joins her in calling on Congress to recognize Disability Reproductive Equity Day and to work to ensure that all people have the right to make the decisions that are best for them and their families.”

    “New Disabled South and New Disabled South Rising endorse the reintroduction of the resolution designating a day in May as Disability Reproductive Equity Day. Disabled people deserve reproductive health equity just like nondisabled people. Disability justice includes reproductive justice and reproductive justice must include disabled people along with all of their reproductive and sexual health needs. Disabled people should have full bodily autonomy and access to equitable reproductive healthcare. We call upon lawmakers to not only acknowledge the historic reproductive wrongs committed against disabled people in the name of eugenics, but to ensure that disabled people have access to the full range of reproductive healthcare services.”

    “The US Gender & Disability Justice Alliance strongly supports the designation of Disability Reproductive Equity Day. Disabled people are whole people, with the right and the capacity to live full, self-determined lives that include love, family, pleasure, and parenting. Our bodies and choices have long been targeted by policies rooted in ableism, eugenics, and control. We call on Congress to recognize that disability is not a limitation of worth, but a powerful part of human diversity, and to honor our right to access reproductive and sexual health care with dignity and respect.”

    “The Reproductive Justice Collective at the Center for Racial and Disability Justice (CRDJ) recognizes the critical importance of affirming reproductive autonomy, equity, and justice for disabled individuals, particularly in the context of historic and ongoing reproductive oppressions rooted in ableism, racism, and structural inequality. Our research, policy briefs, and Reproductive Justice Toolkit emphasize the urgent need to dismantle systemic barriers to reproductive health, which disproportionately impact disabled people of color, including: coerced sterilization, restricted parental rights, inaccessible reproductive health care, inadequate sexual education, increased surveillance and criminalization. The national designation of Disability Reproductive Equity Day is an essential step towards acknowledging and addressing these inequities, and it aligns deeply with our commitment to intersectional, community-led strategies that uplift dignity, autonomy, and justice for all disabled people.”

    “The Autistic Women and Nonbinary Network applauds the introduction of Disability Reproductive Equity Day. Autistic children become autistic adults and deserve the same rights to bodily, sexual, and reproductive freedom as anyone else. We urge lawmakers to recognize and honor our ability to make decisions for ourselves–especially these most personal and private decisions. Autistic people and all people with disabilities deserve the dignity and respect to make our own decisions, especially regarding sexual and reproductive health.”

    “Reproductive equity cannot exist without disability justice. Disabled people—especially those who are multiply marginalized—have long been excluded from conversations about reproductive health, rights, and autonomy. We applaud Representative Pressley’s leadership in recognizing that the reproductive freedom of disabled people is essential to a just and equitable future,” said Dr. Monika Mitra, Director, Lurie Institute for Disability Policy, Brandeis University.

    “People living with disabilities deserve inclusive, respectful, accessible care, including sexual and reproductive health care, but right now House Republicans are trying to gut Medicaid, threatening access to life-saving care. People with disabilities — especially those who are Black, Latino, Indigenous, LGBTQ+, or have low incomes — already face significant barriers to reproductive care, which are exacerbated by abortion and gender-affirming care bans and other restrictions.  In the face of these attacks, we thank Rep. Ayanna Pressley for reintroducing the vital Disability Reproductive Equity Act. Reproductive rights and disability rights are inextricably linked. Everyone deserves the freedom to make decisions about their own bodies, lives, and futures,” said Alexis McGill Johnson, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood Federation of America.

    “We proudly support the resolution recognizing Disability Reproductive Equity Day. Today, disabled people are facing urgent threats to our access to sexual and reproductive health care, from a reconciliation bill that could kick millions of disabled people off of Medicaid to this administration’s ongoing attacks on reproductive rights. That makes it even more critical than ever that we reaffirm our vision: a future where disabled people are empowered to make decisions about our reproductive rights and care and live with dignity and self-determination,” said Ma’ayan Anafi, senior counsel for health equity and justice at the National Women’s Law Center. “This resolution celebrates disabled people and uplifts their leadership in the movement towards reproductive freedom. We thank Rep. Pressley for her continued commitment to advancing equity and justice for all.”

    “For too long, the United States has denied people with disabilities equitable access to affordable and comprehensive sexual and reproductive health care, subjecting us to coverage gaps, discrimination, coercion, and violence. Proposed Medicaid cuts such as work requirements in the reconciliation bill, as well as ongoing attacks on the Affordable Care Act’s preventive services mandate and health care nondiscrimination protections, threaten to intensify structural barriers. The National Health Law Program is grateful to Representative Pressley for her commitment to safeguarding current rights and forging a future in which all people with disabilities have access to high-quality sexual and reproductive health care.”

    A copy of the resolution text can be found here.

    Earlier this month, at the Center for American Progress’ Disability Reproductive Equity Summit, Rep. Pressley spoke of the importance of intersectional policymaking and affirming disability rights and reproductive rights as the human rights that they are.

    Rep. Pressley has been a longtime advocate the disability community and has championed policies that promote disability justice. In addition to being an original co-lead of the Disability Reproductive Equity Day resolution, Rep. Pressley is a co-lead of the Reproductive Health Care Accessibility Act, legislation that would eliminate barriers and strengthen access to reproductive health care for people with disabilities.

    Rep. Pressley has also been an outspoken critic of Republican’s harmful budget reconciliation bill, which would make harmful cuts to Medicaid and threaten the reproductive healthcare access for millions in America, including those with disabilities.

    • On May 6, 2025, Rep. Pressley joined the Disability Justice Initiative at the Center for American Progress in kicking off their Disability Reproductive Equity Summit to develop an agenda for disability reproductive justice.
    • On August 14, 2024, Rep. Pressley issued a statement applauding Biden-Harris Administration for finalizing its proposed rule to improve access to medical diagnostic equipment (MDE) for people with disabilities. The DOJ’s final rule followed an April letter by Rep. Pressley and 11 of her colleagues urging it to strengthen and finalize its proposed rule, and underscoring the need for health care facilities to have functional and accessible MDE for people with disabilities.
    • On May 23, 2024, Rep. Pressley held a press conference alongside colleagues and reproductive justice and disability justice advocates to unveil the Disability Reproductive Equity Day Resolution.
    • On May 2, 2024, Rep. Pressley issued a statement applauding the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) finalized rule that prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability. 
    • On April 4, Rep. Pressley led her colleagues in urging the Department of Justice (DOJ) to strengthen and quickly finalize its proposed rule to improve access to medical diagnostic equipment (MDE) for people with disabilities.
    • On December 12, 2023, Rep. Pressley wrote to the Biden-Harris Administration seeking data on the housing needs for aging adults, people with disabilities, and Medicaid beneficiaries.
    • On September 29, 2022, Rep. Pressley and Rep. Cori Bush introduced the Reproductive Health Care Accessibility Act, legislation that would eliminate barriers and strengthen access to reproductive health care for people with disabilities.
    • On June 25, 2022, Rep. Pressley applauded the passage of H.R. 2543, which included several key amendments championed by Rep. Pressley to advance disability and economic justice.
    • On May 24, 2022, in a House Financial Services subcommittee hearing, Rep. Pressley discussed the crisis of Long COVID as a disability justice issue and outlined how the status quo has relegated disabled Americans—including those with Long COVID—to a second-class standard of living.
    • On April 14, 2020, Rep. Pressley urged Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker to rescind the Crisis of Care standards that have disproportionately harmed communities of color and the disability community in Massachusetts.
    • On March 29, 2022, in a historic committee hearing on Medicare for All, Rep. Pressley highlighted Medicare For All as a disability justice issue and questioned Ady Barkan, founder of Be A Hero and leading advocate for Medicare for All, about how tying health coverage to employment perpetuates deep inequities for people with disabilities.
    • On February 25, 2021, Rep. Pressley, Rep. Katie Porter, and their colleagues introduced the Mental Health Justice Act to reduce violence against individuals with mental illness and disabilities.
    • On March 30, 2021, she led her colleagues on a letter with 107 of their colleagues to President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris calling for an historic investment of $450 billion in home- and community-based services (HCBS) in the Build Back Better infrastructure package.
    • On September 18, 2022, Rep. Pressley, Dr. Subini Ancy Annamma, and Villissa Thompson published an op-ed in Teen Vogue in which they called for an end to the policies and systemic injustice that result in the overcriminalization of Black girls with disabilities in schools.
    • On July 29, 2020, Rep. Pressley, Rep. Ilhan Omar, and Senators Chris Murphy and Elizabeth Warren unveiled the Counseling Not Criminalization in Schools Act to end the over-policing of K-12 schools and stop the criminalization of students, including those with disabilities.
    • In early 2020, she worked with advocates to challenge Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker’s crisis standards of care and release updated guidelines with input from the disability community.
    • On October 11, 2019, Rep. Pressley and her colleagues introduced the Improving Access to Higher Education Act to help improve college access and completion for students with disabilities.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 30, 2025
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