Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3
Summary
Company Announcement Date: July 16, 2025 FDA Publish Date: July 16, 2025 Product Type: Food & BeveragesFoodborne Illness Reason for Announcement:
Recall Reason Description Sprouted Moong (sprouted mung beans)
Company Name: CHETAK LLC GROUP Brand Name:
Brand Name(s) Deep
Product Description:
Product Description Sprouted Moong (sprouted mung beans)
Company Announcement Chetak New York LLC, Edison, NJ Chetak San Francisco LLC, Union City, CA Chetak Chicago LLC, Streamwood, IL Chetak Orlando LLC, Kissimmee, FL Chetak Los Angeles LLC, Pico Rivera, CA Zeenat Inc., Sugarland, TX Are recalling Frozen ‘Deep Sprouted Mat(Moth) 16 oz. and Deep Sprouted Moong 16oz. because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infection in young children, frail or elderly people and others with weakened immune system. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illness such as arterial infections (i.e. infected aneurysms) endocarditis and arthritis The Recalled Sprouted Beans were distributed nationwide in retail stores under following Lot numbers
Deep Sprouted Mat (Moth) 16 oz.LOT CODE- printed on back side of bag- IN24330, 25072,25108,24353,25171,24297,25058,25078,24291,25107,24354 AND 24292 Deep Sprouted Moong 16 oz. packetLOT CODE- printed on back side of bag- IN24330, 25072,25108,24353,25171,24297,25058,25078,24291,25107,24354 AND 24292
No illness have been reported to date in connection with this problem to company The potential for contamination was noted after routine testing by FDA Production of the product has been suspended while FDA and the company continue their investigation as to the source of the problem. Consumers who have purchased 16 oz. packet of “Sprouted Mat (Moth) and Sprouted Moong” are urged to return them to place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the Company at 908-209-8878
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jo McDonald, Professor, Director of Centre for Rock Art Research + Management, The University of Western Australia
Senior Ranger, Mardudunhera man Peter Cooper, oversees the Murujuga landscapeJo McDonald, CC BY-SA
On Friday, the Murujuga Cultural Landscape in northwest Western Australia was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. We were in Paris to see Murujuga become Australia’s 21st world heritage property, but only our second property listed exclusively for its Indigenous cultural values.
Murujuga, meaning “hip bone sticking out”, is an ancient rocky landscape rising out of the Indian Ocean in northwest Australia.
Murujuga is shaped by the Lore and the presence of Ngarda-Ngarli – the collective term for the Traditional Owner groups of the coastal Pilbara – since Ngurra Nyujunggamu, when the earth was soft, the beginning of time.
Murujuga includes the Burrup Peninsula, the Dampier Archipelago’s 42 islands and the listed property covers almost 100,000 hectares of land and sea country. Across this cultural landscape are between one to two million petroglyphs – rock art – created by carving designs into rock surfaces. The petroglyphs record Ngarda Ngarli’s attachment and adaptation to a changing environment through deep time.
The UNESCO listing recognises the “outstanding universal value” of the Murujuga Cultural Landscape. This value lies in the traditional system governing it, in tangible and intangible attributes that attest to 50,000 years of Ngarda-Ngarli using and caring for the land and seascape.
The Ngarda-Ngarli have campaigned for World Heritage Listing of the Murujuga Cultural Landscape for more than 20 years.
Murujuga Board and Circle of Elders members in Sydney at the ICOMOS General Assembly, where they hosted a Symposium on the Cultural Landscape nomination. Jo McDonald, CC BY-SA
A controversial nomination
While the outstanding universal values of this place were not in question, the nomination became mired with broader climate concerns.
Industrial development began at Murujuga in the 1950s and was established before Traditional Owners had decision-making authority. The Dampier Archipelago, as well as housing petroglyphs across 42 islands, is also home to one of the largest industrial hubs in the southern hemisphere.
The recent approval for the North-West Gas Hub has elevated climate change concerns and raised questions about whether the government is serious about protecting Murujuga.
While acidic pollution has been suggested by some, our work on the monitoring program found rain and dust at the site was pH neutral, and there is no acid rain impacting on the petroglyphs.
Other criticism included that the air quality at the site is compromised by local gas production. The research found the air quality at Murujuga is “good” to “very good” by international standards. We also found average annual nitrogen dioxide levels − the emission under most scrutiny − is five times lower than World Health Organisation guidelines.
According to MRAMP research, Murujuga’s air quality is well within national standards. Nitrogen dioxide is 16 times lower than the national standard, and sulphur dioxide never exceeding 10% of the national standard.
Importantly, the research program is ongoing and will transition to monitoring led by the Ngarda-Ngarli with support and training from the scientists. And this ongoing monitoring will be part of the management regime in place to protect Murujuga as a world heritage listed site.
The MRAMP monitoring team in action at Murujuga. Ben Mullins, CC BY-SA
Ngard-Ngarli leadership
Traditional Owners and Custodians led the world heritage nomination, supported by State and Commonwealth governments.
Traditional Owners consider the listing will better protect Ngarda-Ngarli knowledge, lore and culture as expressed through the landscape and in the petroglyphs.
World heritage recognition will support Ngarda-Ngarli decision-making and ongoing management across the Murujuga Cultural Landscape.
This global recognition is a mechanism to help Ngarda-Ngarli do what they have always done: protect their culture and decide what is right for Country for future generations.
The inscription is a testament to the old people who started this quest decades ago, many of whom have not lived to celebrate this victory.
The Australian delegation on the floor of UNESCO during the inscription session. Jo McDonald, CC BY
Australia’s deep time heritage
Australia now has two places on the World Heritage List which are exclusively listed as Indigenous sites of outstanding universal value to all humanity.
The Murujuga Cultural Landscape joins on the list the southwestern Victorian site Budj Bim, one of the world’s most extensive and oldest aquaculture systems.
Murujuga Aboriginal Custodians celebrate the Word Heritage listing decision in Paris this week. Jo McDonald, CC BY
By this listing, the world has recognised the deep time creative genius and ongoing connection of Ngarda-Ngarli to the Murujuga Cultural Landscape.
This international acclaim recognises the extraordinary resilience of Australia’s First Nations peoples and should be a source of pride and celebration for all Australians.
Jo McDonald is an employee of the University of Western Australia and receives funding from the Australian Research Council.The Centre for Rock Art Research and Management receives funding for its research and training operations from Rio Tinto. Jo was a member of the World Heritage committee and contributed to the writing of the dossier.
Amy Stevens is an employee of Murujuga Aboriginal Corporation, which receives funding from the Australian Government, the WA Government and industry and was a lead author on the Murujuga Cultural Landscape World Heritage nomination.
Belinda Churnside serves as Deputy Chair. Board Directors are remunerated for their duties in accordance with community-approved sitting fees. These payments are made from MAC’s operational income.
MAC receives funding support for a range of projects from both State and Federal government departments, as well as from industry partners operating within the Burrup and Maitland Industrial Estate Agreement (BMIEA) area.
The Department of Water and Environmental Regulation provides operational and strategic support for the Murujuga Rock Art Monitoring Program. The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions funds MAC’s National Park Ranger Team, while other funding bodies contribute to the Murujuga Land and Sea Unit Rangers.
All funding sources and expenditures are transparently reported in MAC’s annual financial report, which is audited each year by an independent external auditor.
Ben Mullins is the lead scientist on the Murujuga Rock Art Monitoring Project, which is funded by the Government of Western Australia.
Peter Hicks is the Chair of the Board of Murujuga Aboriginal Corporation (MAC). Board Directors are remunerated for their duties in accordance with community-approved sitting fees. These payments are made from MAC’s operational income.
MAC receives funding support for a range of projects from both State and Federal government departments, as well as from industry partners operating within the Burrup and Maitland Industrial Estate Agreement (BMIEA) area.
The Department of Water and Environmental Regulation provides operational and strategic support for the Murujuga Rock Art Monitoring Program. The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions funds MAC’s National Park Ranger Team, while other funding bodies contribute to the Murujuga Land and Sea Unit Rangers.
All funding sources and expenditures are transparently reported in MAC’s annual financial report, which is audited each year by an independent external auditor.
Terry Bailey is a World Heritage advisor to Murujuga Aboriginal Corporation and WA Government and was lead editor and co-author of Murujuga Cultural Landscape World Heritage nomination. His appointment is funded by the WA Government.
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jo McDonald, Professor, Director of Centre for Rock Art Research + Management, The University of Western Australia
Senior Ranger, Mardudunhera man Peter Cooper, oversees the Murujuga landscapeJo McDonald, CC BY-SA
On Friday, the Murujuga Cultural Landscape in northwest Western Australia was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. We were in Paris to see Murujuga become Australia’s 21st world heritage property, but only our second property listed exclusively for its Indigenous cultural values.
Murujuga, meaning “hip bone sticking out”, is an ancient rocky landscape rising out of the Indian Ocean in northwest Australia.
Murujuga is shaped by the Lore and the presence of Ngarda-Ngarli – the collective term for the Traditional Owner groups of the coastal Pilbara – since Ngurra Nyujunggamu, when the earth was soft, the beginning of time.
Murujuga includes the Burrup Peninsula, the Dampier Archipelago’s 42 islands and the listed property covers almost 100,000 hectares of land and sea country. Across this cultural landscape are between one to two million petroglyphs – rock art – created by carving designs into rock surfaces. The petroglyphs record Ngarda Ngarli’s attachment and adaptation to a changing environment through deep time.
The UNESCO listing recognises the “outstanding universal value” of the Murujuga Cultural Landscape. This value lies in the traditional system governing it, in tangible and intangible attributes that attest to 50,000 years of Ngarda-Ngarli using and caring for the land and seascape.
The Ngarda-Ngarli have campaigned for World Heritage Listing of the Murujuga Cultural Landscape for more than 20 years.
Murujuga Board and Circle of Elders members in Sydney at the ICOMOS General Assembly, where they hosted a Symposium on the Cultural Landscape nomination. Jo McDonald, CC BY-SA
A controversial nomination
While the outstanding universal values of this place were not in question, the nomination became mired with broader climate concerns.
Industrial development began at Murujuga in the 1950s and was established before Traditional Owners had decision-making authority. The Dampier Archipelago, as well as housing petroglyphs across 42 islands, is also home to one of the largest industrial hubs in the southern hemisphere.
The recent approval for the North-West Gas Hub has elevated climate change concerns and raised questions about whether the government is serious about protecting Murujuga.
While acidic pollution has been suggested by some, our work on the monitoring program found rain and dust at the site was pH neutral, and there is no acid rain impacting on the petroglyphs.
Other criticism included that the air quality at the site is compromised by local gas production. The research found the air quality at Murujuga is “good” to “very good” by international standards. We also found average annual nitrogen dioxide levels − the emission under most scrutiny − is five times lower than World Health Organisation guidelines.
According to MRAMP research, Murujuga’s air quality is well within national standards. Nitrogen dioxide is 16 times lower than the national standard, and sulphur dioxide never exceeding 10% of the national standard.
Importantly, the research program is ongoing and will transition to monitoring led by the Ngarda-Ngarli with support and training from the scientists. And this ongoing monitoring will be part of the management regime in place to protect Murujuga as a world heritage listed site.
The MRAMP monitoring team in action at Murujuga. Ben Mullins, CC BY-SA
Ngard-Ngarli leadership
Traditional Owners and Custodians led the world heritage nomination, supported by State and Commonwealth governments.
Traditional Owners consider the listing will better protect Ngarda-Ngarli knowledge, lore and culture as expressed through the landscape and in the petroglyphs.
World heritage recognition will support Ngarda-Ngarli decision-making and ongoing management across the Murujuga Cultural Landscape.
This global recognition is a mechanism to help Ngarda-Ngarli do what they have always done: protect their culture and decide what is right for Country for future generations.
The inscription is a testament to the old people who started this quest decades ago, many of whom have not lived to celebrate this victory.
The Australian delegation on the floor of UNESCO during the inscription session. Jo McDonald, CC BY
Australia’s deep time heritage
Australia now has two places on the World Heritage List which are exclusively listed as Indigenous sites of outstanding universal value to all humanity.
The Murujuga Cultural Landscape joins on the list the southwestern Victorian site Budj Bim, one of the world’s most extensive and oldest aquaculture systems.
Murujuga Aboriginal Custodians celebrate the Word Heritage listing decision in Paris this week. Jo McDonald, CC BY
By this listing, the world has recognised the deep time creative genius and ongoing connection of Ngarda-Ngarli to the Murujuga Cultural Landscape.
This international acclaim recognises the extraordinary resilience of Australia’s First Nations peoples and should be a source of pride and celebration for all Australians.
Jo McDonald is an employee of the University of Western Australia and receives funding from the Australian Research Council.The Centre for Rock Art Research and Management receives funding for its research and training operations from Rio Tinto. Jo was a member of the World Heritage committee and contributed to the writing of the dossier.
Amy Stevens is an employee of Murujuga Aboriginal Corporation, which receives funding from the Australian Government, the WA Government and industry and was a lead author on the Murujuga Cultural Landscape World Heritage nomination.
Belinda Churnside serves as Deputy Chair. Board Directors are remunerated for their duties in accordance with community-approved sitting fees. These payments are made from MAC’s operational income.
MAC receives funding support for a range of projects from both State and Federal government departments, as well as from industry partners operating within the Burrup and Maitland Industrial Estate Agreement (BMIEA) area.
The Department of Water and Environmental Regulation provides operational and strategic support for the Murujuga Rock Art Monitoring Program. The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions funds MAC’s National Park Ranger Team, while other funding bodies contribute to the Murujuga Land and Sea Unit Rangers.
All funding sources and expenditures are transparently reported in MAC’s annual financial report, which is audited each year by an independent external auditor.
Ben Mullins is the lead scientist on the Murujuga Rock Art Monitoring Project, which is funded by the Government of Western Australia.
Peter Hicks is the Chair of the Board of Murujuga Aboriginal Corporation (MAC). Board Directors are remunerated for their duties in accordance with community-approved sitting fees. These payments are made from MAC’s operational income.
MAC receives funding support for a range of projects from both State and Federal government departments, as well as from industry partners operating within the Burrup and Maitland Industrial Estate Agreement (BMIEA) area.
The Department of Water and Environmental Regulation provides operational and strategic support for the Murujuga Rock Art Monitoring Program. The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions funds MAC’s National Park Ranger Team, while other funding bodies contribute to the Murujuga Land and Sea Unit Rangers.
All funding sources and expenditures are transparently reported in MAC’s annual financial report, which is audited each year by an independent external auditor.
Terry Bailey is a World Heritage advisor to Murujuga Aboriginal Corporation and WA Government and was lead editor and co-author of Murujuga Cultural Landscape World Heritage nomination. His appointment is funded by the WA Government.
Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall
Senator Marshall Joins Fox Business to Talk About Fed Chairman Jerome Powell
Washington – On Wednesday, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas), joined Elizabeth McDonald on Fox Business’ The Evening Edit to discuss Jerome Powell’s tenure at the Federal Reserve, why interest rates need to come down for the good of the country, and concerns about the overspending on the Federal Reserve HQ renovations.
Click HERE or on the image above to watch Senator Marshall’s full interview.
On whether President Trump will fire Jerome Powell:
“I don’t see the president firing him, but Jay Powell should resign. That’s what he should do. He’s lost the confidence of the President and the American people. There’s a reason the President calls him ‘too late.’ He was too late when we saw Bidenflation just jump through the roof; they told us it would be transient, [but] he was so late that inflation was persistent.
“Then, a month before the November election, he suddenly, without good reason, he drops the interest rate. And now we just had a quarter of 2.1% inflation numbers, and he refuses to drop them. It just seems to me that Jay Powell has a blind spot. That he’s too much emotionally invested in the situation. Now it probably be best if he resigned. Gave us give us some notice, though, and let America’s economy get on the way here. We need to drop the interest rates.”
On the ongoing costs of the Federal Reserve HQ Renovations:
“We certainly need an inspector general, or the Government Accounting Office, to go in there and figure this out. This building costs $2,000 a square foot. It has a theater, it has wellness centers, and I don’t know if it’s gold-plated or not, but it’s way over budget. Did we even need a new one to start with? There’s much better things we could do with this money, and I do expect to see more of this as we go through some type of congressional hearing.”
Source: United States Senator for Idaho James E Risch
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), and Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.) introduced the Graham Hoffman Act, which will make it a federal crime to assault first responders.
“Last month’s evil attack on first responders in North Idaho is a stark reminder of the dangers our brave men and women in uniform face every day,” said Risch. “The Graham Hoffman Act is commonsense legislation to properly punish those who assault the men and women who keep our communities safe. Vicki and I continue to pray for the victims of the North Idaho ambush, their loved ones, and all affected by this reprehensible act.”
“The devastating loss of Idaho firefighters John Morrison and Frank Harwood and severe injury of David Tysdal during a premeditated, deadly ambush last month in Coeur D’Alene remind us of the real dangers and sacrifices first responders make every day to protect our families and communities,” Crapo said. “Their loss impels us to strengthen the law and deter further violence to ensure justice is fully meted on any individual who attacks our law enforcement or first responders.”
“Graham Hoffman was a courageous firefighter-paramedic whose life was tragically cut short at the hands of a known criminal who had been released from custody shortly before the attack. This tragic loss underscores the urgent need to protect our first responders, who put their lives on the line to serve our communities. This legislation, in honor of Graham, ensures that anyone who assaults or kills a first responder faces the full force of federal law,” said Schmitt.
Risch and Crapo are joined by U.S. Senators Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), Ashley Moody (R-Fla.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), and Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.).
On June 29, 2025, two North Idaho firefighters—Kootenai County Fire and Rescue Chief Frank Hardwood and Coeur d’Alene Fire Department Battalion Chief John Morrison—were killed in an ambush while responding to a brush fire on Canfield Mountain. Another first responder, Coeur d’Alene Fire Department Engineer Dave Tysdal, was seriously injured and remains in recovery.
This legislation is named in honor of Graham Hoffman, a paramedic from Kansas City, Mo., who was attacked and killed in the line of duty by a known criminal on April 27, 2025.
Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo
Washington D.C.–U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and Eric Schmitt (R-Missouri) introduced the Graham Hoffman Act, which would make it a federal crime to assault first responders.
“The devastating loss of Idaho firefighters John Morrison and Frank Harwood and severe injury of David Tysdal during a premeditated, deadly ambush last month in Coeur d’Alene remind us of the real dangers and sacrifices first responders make every day to protect our families and communities,” Crapo said. “Their loss impels us to strengthen the law and deter further violence to ensure justice is fully meted on any individual who attacks our law enforcement or first responders.”
“Last month’s evil attack on first responders in north Idaho is a stark reminder of the dangers our brave men and women in uniform face every day,” said Risch. “The Graham Hoffman Act is commonsense legislation to properly punish those who assault the men and women who keep our communities safe. Vicki and I continue to pray for the victims of the north Idaho ambush, their loved ones and all affected by this reprehensible act.”
“Graham Hoffman was a courageous firefighter-paramedic whose life was tragically cut short at the hands of a known criminal who had been released from custody shortly before the attack. This tragic loss underscores the urgent need to protect our first responders, who put their lives on the line to serve our communities. This legislation, in honor of Graham, ensures that anyone who assaults or kills a first responder faces the full force of federal law,” said Schmitt.
Crapo and Risch are joined by U.S. Senators Josh Hawley (R-Missouri), Ashley Moody (R-Florida), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Bill Hagerty (R-Tennessee) and Maggie Hassan (D-New Hampshire).
On June 29, 2025, Kootenai County Fire and Rescue Battalion Chief Frank Hardwood and Coeur d’Alene Fire Department Battalion Chief John Morrison were killed in an ambush while responding to a brush fire on Canfield Mountain. Another first responder, Coeur d’Alene Fire Department Engineer Dave Tysdal, was seriously injured and remains in recovery.
This legislation is named in honor of Graham Hoffman, a paramedic from Kansas City, Missouri, who was attacked and killed in the line of duty by a known criminal on April 27, 2025.
Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo
Washington, D.C.–The One Big Beautiful Bill Act delivers on President Trump’s promise to seniors, providing significant tax relief to low- and middle-income seniors with a bonus exemption on top of other significant tax relief.
“This legislation reflects our commitment to care for our seniors, ensuring low- and middle-income senior citizens receive a crucial tax break and are able to keep more of the money they have earned over the course of their lives,” said Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho).
Key wins:
Provides a $6,000 bonus exemption to millions of low- and middle-income seniors, slashing their tax burden.
Permanent lower tax rates, letting Americans keep more of their hard-earned money.
Permanent increased and enhanced standard deduction, claimed by over 90 percent of taxpayers.
What they are saying:
“The bill’s broadest tax impact comes from making permanent the reduced income tax rates enacted during Trump’s first term and initially set to expire after this year. Another key provision, backed by AARP, provides targeted tax relief for older adults in the form of a $6,000 “bonus” deduction that could offset federal taxes on Social Security benefits.” – AARP
“The One, Big, Beautiful Bill will unleash the full potential of the U.S. economy. It locks in permanent, pro-growth tax cuts for families, workers, and job creators. The bill also enacts No Tax on Tips, No Tax on Overtime, and new tax cuts for seniors. The OBBB will strengthen important programs for those who need them most and save taxpayer dollars by cutting waste, fraud, and abuse. This consequential legislation cements the blue-collar boom and improves the lives of Americans on every rung of the economic ladder. As we saw after the passage of the 2017 Trump Tax Cuts, American businesses will hire, invest, and raise wages now that this Administration and the Republican Congress have delivered certainty and stability for the economy.” – Scott Bessent, Treasury Secretary
“Under the One Big Beautiful Bill, 51.4 million seniors – 88 percent of all seniors receiving Social Security income – will pay no tax on their Social Security.” – Council of Economic Advisers
Click HERE to learn more about the Finance Committee provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman David G. Valadao (California)
WASHINGTON –Today, the House of Representatives passed Congressman Valadao’s (CA-22) bill, H.R. 1044. The existing permit for the Kaweah Hydroelectric Project in Tulare County is set to expire in 2026, and this bill authorizes seven permit renewals to ensure it can continue operating.
“The Kaweah Hydroelectric Project is a critical source of clean, reliable, and affordable energy for California, and these permit renewals are the key to keeping it running,”said Congressman Valadao.“Without authorization, CA-22 ratepayers would see a dramatic increase in their energy costs and would be left to foot the bill for dismantling much-needed infrastructure. This is an issue that’s been a priority throughout my time in Congress, and I look forward to working with my Senate colleagues to get this bill across the finish line.”
Congressman Valadao spoke on the House Floor during debate on the legislation. Watch his remarks here or read as prepared below:
Mr. Speaker,
I rise to urge support for my bill, H.R. 1044, which authorizes seven permit renewals for the Kaweah Hydroelectric Project in Tulare County, California.
Southern California Edison has operated the Kaweah Hydroelectric Project since 1899—marking well over a century of reliable, clean power.
For decades, Congress has allowed the continued use of federal lands for this purpose. But unless we act now, that authorization will expire in 2026.
Without authorization, Southern California Edison would be forced to dismantle critical infrastructure—costing ratepayers in the region tens of millions of dollars and eliminating a clean, reliable, and affordable source of energy.
This bill ensures that Kaweah can keep operating without disruption or unnecessary costs to families across California.
I want to thank Chairman Westerman and his staff at the Committee on Natural Resources for their work on this issue. I urge my colleagues to support this bill and protect the Central Valley’s clean energy future.
Thank you, and I yield back.
Background:
Southern California Edison (SCE) and its predecessor have operated the Kaweah Hydroelectric Project since 1899, providing reliable, renewable energy to Californians. Part of the project’s infrastructure—Kaweah #3—is located on National Park Service land. Since 1912, the federal government has authorized use of this land through a series of permits.
In 1986, Congress passed legislation allowing one 10-year permit with one 10-year renewal. When those expired, Congress again acted in 2005 to authorize two more 10-year extensions. Those extensions will expire in 2026. Without further congressional action, SCE will be forced to dismantle its infrastructure inside the park at a cost of tens of millions of dollars—costs that would fall directly on California ratepayers.
Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) today released the following statement after the Intelligence Authorization Act (IAA) for Fiscal Year 2026 passed out of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence:
“The U.S. Intelligence Community and congressional intelligence committees play vital roles in keeping Texans safe and secure in an increasingly complex threat environment at home and around the globe,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This legislation will ensure our intelligence agencies are equipped with the tools to confront foreign espionage, enhance counternarcotics efforts, and bolster our cybersecurity all while prioritizing transparency and efficiency, and I was glad to support it.”
Sen. Cornyn’s Legislation Included in the Bill:
Intelligence Community Technology Bridge Act:Would enable the Intelligence Community (IC) to streamline acquisition processes and prioritize small business and nontraditional defense contractor solutions.
Counternarcotics Enhancement Act: Would direct the Director of National Intelligence (DNI) to submit to the congressional intelligence committees an action plan to enhance counternarcotics collaboration, coordination, and cooperation between the U.S. and Mexico.
Strengthening Prosecution Integrity for Espionage Statutes (SPIES) Act: Would help hold foreign spies who commit espionage crimes against the U.S. accountable by removing the statute of limitations for certain offenses such as gathering or delivering classified information to aid foreign governments.
Other Key Provisions Include:
Requiring the DNI to assess the counterintelligence vulnerabilities of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA);
Requiring the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to assess and share the counterintelligence risks to commercial spaceports;
Reforming and improving efficiencies and effectiveness within the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) and the broader IC;
Requiring that visas be denied to certain nationals applying to work at the United Nations if they are known or suspected of being foreign intelligence officers or committing intelligence or espionage activities;
Prohibiting the IC from contracting with Chinese military companies engaged in biotechnology research, development, or manufacturing;
Codifying tour and travel restrictions for Chinese, Russian, Iranian, and North Korean diplomats in the United States;
Enhancing protections for, and congressional oversight of, IC whistleblowers;
Prohibiting IC contractors from collecting or selling IC personnel location data;
And promoting transparency by requiring the DNI to conduct a declassification review and publish intelligence relating to the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following statement after President Trump signed the Halt All Lethal Trafficking of (HALT) Fentanyl Act, which will help keep this deadly drug off of Texas’ streets by permanently classifying fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I, into law:
“This legislation is essential to stopping the flow of illicit fentanyl that has infiltrated our nation and taken hundreds of thousands of innocent lives,” said Sen. Cornyn. “I have heard heartbreaking stories from families across Texas who have lost loved ones to this deadly drug, and I commend President Trump for swiftly signing this bill into law to combat the fentanyl crisis and make our communities safe.”
Background:
Fentanyl is a controlled substance, tightly regulated under the Controlled Substances Act. Illicit drug manufacturers and traffickers sidestep the law by producing fentanyl-related substances – drugs that are substantially similar to fentanyl, but chemically tweaked ever so slightly – to push potent drugs into the U.S. on a technicality. Fentanyl-related overdoses account for nearly 70% of drug overdose deaths nationwide, and fentanyl poisoning is the leading cause of death for 18-45 year olds.
To keep pace with rapidly evolving drugs and combat the epidemic of opioid-related deaths, in 2018, the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the leadership of President Trump, temporarily restricted all fentanyl-related substances. Since then, Congress has repeatedly extended President Trump’s temporary scheduling order. The HALT Fentanyl Act permanently extends the 2018 Schedule I classification for fentanyl-related substances, which expired on March 31, 2025.
The HALT Fentanyl Act passed out of the Senate Judiciary Committee, which Sen. Cornyn serves on, by a bipartisan vote of 16-5 earlier this year, and it passed the Senate in March and the House in June.
The HALT Fentanyl Act, now law, will:
Amend the Controlled Substances Act to permanently classify illicit fentanyl knockoffs, known as fentanyl-related substances, as Schedule I drugs, for which there is no accepted medical use;
Protect patients’ access to legitimate, FDA-approved fentanyl for medical purposes directed by a physician;
Support law enforcement and codify existing criminal penalties to ensure illicit manufacturers and traffickers can be fully prosecuted and victims and their families receive justice;
And advance scientific and medical research by streamlining registration processes and allowing more scientists to study fentanyl-related substances.
This law is supported by more than 40 major advocacy groups, as well as a coalition of more than 200 groups made up of families personally impacted by fentanyl.
Source: United States Senator for Arkansas – John Boozman
WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH), members of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, introduced the Veterans Burial Assistance Act, legislation to help expedite the process of certifying a veteran’s passing and minimize or avoid delays in benefits owed to their loved ones. Congressman Tom Emmer (R-MN-06) introduced similar legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.
“Ensuring that a death certificate – an important legal document – is provided to a veteran’s loved ones in a timely manner after their passing is crucial not only for emotional closure, but necessary for a variety of legal, financial and administrative matters,” said Boozman. “Without one, it is difficult to access survivor and burial benefits and further assistance from the VA. Our bill ensures that veterans who pass away in VA care promptly receive this fully executed, vital document.”
“While we can never fully repay the debt that we owe to veterans for their service to our country, we can help ensure that as their families work to lay their loved one to rest, they receive the support that they have earned and deserve,” said Hassan. “This commonsense legislation will help ensure that when a veteran passes away, their death certificate is processed quickly so that their loved ones can experience the closure and certainty that comes with a dignified burial.”
“Our duty to our veterans must not end with their final breath,” Emmer said. “With this commonsense reform, no veteran family will be denied closure – or forced to endure uncertainty – when burying one of our nation’s heroes.”
The Veterans Burial Assistance Act would require the signing of a veteran’s death certificate by a VA doctor or nurse practitioner within 48 hours of notification for any veteran whose primary care doctor is employed by the VA, regardless of where the veteran passes. When the VA is unable to meet this timeline, the local coroner or medical examiner may sign the death certificate.
The signing of a death certificate for veterans who have died of natural causes has been delayed for as many as eight weeks, preventing loved ones from receiving death benefits in a timely manner and forcing local governments to pay for the veteran’s body to be stored until the death certificate is signed and a burial can be performed.
The bill is supported by AMVETS, Vietnam Veterans of America and With Honor.
Drivers are advised the north side on-ramp to Highway 1 westbound from East 1st Avenue will close for two weeks, from Thursday, July 17, until Monday, Aug. 4, 2025.
The closure will allow City of Vancouver crews to safely continue work on sewer upgrades on East 1st Avenue. The Ministry of Transportation and Transit will advise if any further closures or extensions are needed.
During the closure period, the on-ramp will remain closed and there will be no right or left turn onto the Highway 1 westbound on-ramp from East 1st Avenue.
Drivers travelling westbound can detour through East Hastings Street or McGill Street and should plan additional travel time through the route.
Travellers are reminded to obey signage. Traffic updates will be available on www.DriveBC.ca.
As millions of Australians are preparing to lodge their tax returns, scammers are actively seeking new ways to exploit personal information. If successful, they can use stolen details not only to commit fraud against the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), but also carry out broader identity theft and financial crimes across the community.
The ATO has reported a sharp rise in impersonation scams, with a 150 per cent increase over the last 12 months. 90 per cent of ATO impersonation scams are currently being sent via email.
Scammers are constantly enhancing their methods to impersonate the ATO, making it increasingly difficult for individuals to recognise fraudulent messages. Staying informed and vigilant is essential to protecting personal information.
To help keep your personal information safe and protected, the ATO’s app now has powerful new safety features designed to give users real-time control over their tax affairs through alerts and instant account locking to help stop fraudsters in their tracks.
The app enhancements bolster the ATO’s existing fraud controls that have been in place for some time to detect unusual or out of pattern behaviour on taxpayers’ accounts.
Quotes attributable to ATO Assistant Commissioner Rob Thomson
‘This is the time of year when people are awaiting their tax returns or expecting to hear from the ATO, and scammers know it.’
‘That’s why we’ve strengthened the ATO app with new security features. It’s fast, free, and puts security in your hands, giving you the power to monitor your account in real-time and instantly lock it if something doesn’t feel right.’
‘Downloading the ATO app is a simple and effective way to stay one step ahead.’
‘If you receive a notification and something doesn’t feel right, lock your account immediately in our app, and verify and report the interaction on the ATO website or by calling 1800 467 033 during business hours to discuss any suspicious activity.’
Fraudsters are getting smarter, but so are the protective features in the app. The ATO app now includes new security features designed to help you stay protected, such as:
Real-time messages when changes are made to your ATO record.
Quick account locking when you receive a real-time message to prevent unauthorised access or fraudulent refunds.
These features provide peace of mind knowing your account is protected and you remain in control of your tax affairs anytime, anywhere.
The ATO works closely with the National Anti-Scam Centre (NASC), which operates under the ACCC, to protect Australian’s identity information from scams through awareness and education that focuses on three simple steps – stop, check, protect. This partnership strengthens our ability to detect and respond to scam threats, especially during peak periods like tax time.
Quotes attributable to ACCC Deputy Chair Catriona Lowe
‘If you receive an unsolicited contact claiming to be from the ATO and offering any of these options, it’s very likely a scam. Scammers may also use spoofed phone numbers, fake caller IDs, and convincing email templates to appear legitimate.’
‘Don’t let scammers pressure you. We urge all Australians to ‘stop, check and protect’ before reacting to an unexpected call or message and keep front of mind that the ATO and myGov do not use links in their messages.’
Fraudsters and scammers plan on you being distracted and thrive on weak security. Your first line of defence is the ATO app, followed by:
Using a digital ID like myID to securely access online services. It’s unique to you and helps protect you from identity theft and fraud across platforms like tax, education, and government services.
Knowing how to spot and report scams impersonating the ATO. It only takes a few seconds to stop and check an interaction is legitimate. Remember, the ATO will never send you a link asking for your personal information or for you to log into online services.
Turning on multi-factor authentication wherever possible.
Using strong and unique passwords or passphrases.
Keeping your devices and software updated to block the latest threats.
And most importantly, never share your TFN, myGov login, or bank details even in private messages or emails. These are keys to your identity.
If you’ve received a suspicious call, SMS, email or social media message:
We’ve published a draft Practical Compliance Guideline PCG 2025/D3Global and domestic minimum tax lodgment obligations – transitional approach and an update to Taxation Ruling TR 2006/11DCPrivate Rulings for Pillar Two for public consultation until 29 August.
The draft PCG 2025/D3 covers:
Pillar Two lodgment obligations and due dates
lodgment deferrals and suspension of lodgment enforcement action
our approach to failure to lodge penalties and statement penalties during the transition period (fiscal years beginning on or before 31 December 2026 but not including a fiscal year that ends after 30 June 2028).
Consistent with Organisation of Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) guidance, we’ll adopt a soft-landing approach during the transition period, allowing taxpayers to take reasonable measures to meet their obligations.
Updates to TR 2006/11DC include an:
updated reference to the provisions that are relevant to rulings, including the new Pillar Two provisions
explanation that the Commissioner may decline to rule on a private ruling application on the Australian income inclusion rule, the undertaxed profits rule, or on domestic minimum tax, if it would be unreasonable to comply with the application, including examples where this might occur.
We’re inviting comments on these drafts from:
multinational enterprise groups in Australia that may be in-scope of Pillar Two
tax and legal professionals, advisers and consultants with clients in-scope for Pillar Two.
The consultation is open until 29 August. If you represent one of the above groups, you can provide comments directly to the contact person listed on the draft PCG and TR.
We’ll be making:
further updates to TR 2006/11DC to address recent case law developments and will release another draft for consultation at that time – we’ll share progress updates through our Advice under development program
routine updates to related lodgment and penalties practice statements and taxation rulings to cover Pillar Two – these will be published when available.
Keep up to date
We have tailored communication channels for medium, large and multinational businesses, to keep you up to date with updates and changes you need to know.
email notifications about new and updated information on our website – you can choose to receive updates relevant to your situation. Choose the ‘Business and organisations’ category to ensure your subscription includes notifications for more Business bulletins newsroom articles like this one.
Source: United States Small Business Administration
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans to small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Montana to offset economic losses caused by drought beginning May 1.
The declaration covers the Montana counties of Beaverhead, Carter, Cascade, Chouteau, Custer, Dawson, Deer Lodge, Fallon, Flathead, Garfield, Granite, Jefferson, Judith Basin, Lake, Lewis and Clark, Madison, McCone, Meagher, Missoula, Powder River, Powell, Prairie, Ravalli, Richland, Roosevelt, Rosebud, Sanders, Silver Bow, Teton and Wibaux as well as Idaho counties of Clark, Fremont, Idaho and Lemhi, North Dakota counties of Bowman, Golden Valley, McKenzie, Slope and Williams, South Dakota counties of Butte and Harding, and the Wyoming county of Crook.
Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs with financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.
EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills not paid due to the disaster.
“Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”
The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.625% for PNPs with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue and payments are not due until 12 months after the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.
To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.
Submit completed loan applications to SBA no later than March 9, 2026.
###
About the U.S. Small Business Administration
The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.
Source: United States Small Business Administration
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans to small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Wyoming to offset economic losses caused by drought beginning May 1.
The declaration covers the Wyoming counties of Campbell, Converse, Crook, Fremont, Lincoln, Niobrara, Park, Sublette, Teton and Weston as well as the Idaho counties of Bonneville, Fremont and Teton, the Montana County of Gallatin, and South Dakota counties of Custer, Lawrence and Pennington.
Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs with financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.
EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills not paid due to the disaster.
“Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”
The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.625% for PNPs with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue and payments are not due until 12 months after the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.
To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.
Submit completed loan applications to SBA no later than March 9, 2026.
###
About the U.S. Small Business Administration
The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2
Press release
Great British Energy to cut energy bills for community facilities
Great British Energy to cut energy bills for local community libraries, fire stations, care homes and community centres.
Libraries, fire stations and care homes in local communities will benefit from cheaper energy bills through Great British Energy community funding as part of Plan for Change
Mayoral authorities to receive a share of £10 million for publicly-owned clean energy projects
Complements Great British Energy’s drive to cut bills for around 200 schools and 200 hospitals, which is already seeing savings
Libraries, fire stations and care homes in local communities will benefit from cheaper energy bills as Great British Energy delivers on the government’s clean energy superpower mission to make working people and their communities better off.
Great British Energy, the government’s publicly-owned clean energy company, has awarded mayoral authorities a share of £10 million in grant funding to roll out clean energy projects at the centre of communities – including rooftop solar on Merseyside care homes and on leisure centres and libraries in Yorkshire.
These grants will mean that the community services and institutions that working people use will be able to save on their electricity bills and spend more money on the frontline services that strengthen local communities and boost local economic growth.
It is estimated that these schemes could produce a total of around £35 million of lifetime savings on energy bills, while improving energy security and creating good jobs.
As well as solar panels on public buildings, the grants will pay to install batteries for community buildings in areas including Greater Manchester and West Yorkshire, so they can store renewable energy and use it later. The grants will also fund EV chargers in Greater Manchester, to make it easier for drivers to benefit from cheaper to power electric vehicles.
Great British Energy is already cutting energy bills for public services, with solar panels already installed on 11 schools as part of plans to roll out the panels on around 200 schools and 200 hospitals in England.
The government’s clean energy superpower mission will protect billpayers, create jobs and bring greater energy security through delivering clean power by 2030. Great British Energy will accelerate this by developing, investing and building clean energy projects across the UK.
Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:
Your local sports hall, library and community centre could have their energy bills cut by Great British Energy, the government’s publicly-owned clean energy company.
Our plans will mean more money can be spent on the services that make working people better off and help strengthen the ties that bind us in our communities.
This is what Great British Energy is all about – taking back control to deliver lower bills for good.
Great British Energy CEO Dan McGrail said:
Today’s support for new clean power projects in every region in England shows our mission in action – providing a lasting positive impact for the country by creating new jobs, lower bills, and a cleaner future.
It’s important that communities feel the benefits of the energy transition and that we demonstrate the very real rewards it can bring.
Earlier this year, all Mayoral Strategic Authorities were invited to submit expressions of interest for funding renewable energy projects that can be delivered in the 2025/2026 financial year.
Liverpool City Region Combined Authority will use the money to support a rooftop solar project to support care homes and leisure centres, cutting around £4.6 million on lifetime energy bills, while Greater Manchester will also roll out rooftop solar on libraries, fire stations, police stations and sports centres, leading to estimated savings of over £2.1million on lifetime bills. Projects in York and North Yorkshire are estimated to bring around £4 million in lifetime bill savings, they include solar panels to help power an Edwardian swimming pool in York and leisure centres in Whitby, Ripon and Thirsk.
The figures below were estimated by DESNZ in collaboration with MSAs, based on a combination of project-level data and DESNZ standard assumptions. It should be noted these are initial estimates that will be refined as projects become operational and actual data is collected.
MSA
Technology
Project Type
Grant Funding Requested (£)
Total expected project cost (£)
Estimated Net Yearly Average Energy Bill Savings (£ undiscounted, 2025 prices)
Estimated Net Lifetime Energy Bill Savings (£ undiscounted, 2025 prices)
Greater Lincolnshire
Solar
Leisure centres and fire stations
£607,845
£627,845
TBC
TBC
South Yorkshire
Solar
Schools, outdoor covered market and library
£572,025
£615,397
£51,938
£1,558,131
Greater London Authority
Solar
Schools
£607,838
£674,220
£30,376
£911,280
Hull and East Yorkshire
Solar
Service buildings and car parks
£700,000
£1,842,879
£89,822
£2,694,647
Cambridgeshire and Peterborough
Solar
Police headquarters, car park and border canopies
£700,000
£774,226
£51,630
£1,548,886
Greater Manchester
Solar, Battery and EV
Libraries, fire stations, police stations and sports centres
£695,900
£1,301,800
£71,846
£2,155,384
North-East
Solar
Schools
£700,000
£749,946
£46,060
£1,381,806
York and North Yorkshire
Solar
Leisure centres, libraries, schools, transport sites
£700,000
£1,219,948
£134,898
£4,046,936
West Yorkshire
Solar and Battery
Police stations, Arrium plant nursery, primary school, sports centres and Lotherton Hall Estate
Victoria’s fire services are issuing a strong warning about the serious risks of smoking indoors, as it remains the leading cause of fatal house fires across the state.
Half of the 18 fatal fires in Victoria in 2024 were attributed to discarded cigarettes and smoking materials, such as lighters, matches, or open flames, while smokers remain over-represented in residential fire fatalities.
Smoking in bed is the leading cause of smoking-related fire deaths, as falling asleep with a lit cigarette in hand can easily set fire to soft materials such as bed linen.
In addition to the fire fatality figures, more than 10 per cent of residential structure fires that Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) responded to between May 2024 and March 2025 were caused by smoking materials.
In May this year FRV also responded to two significant house fires in Melbourne within days of each other caused by cigarettes. On May 6, a brick unit in Moorabbin was destroyed by a fire originating from an incorrectly extinguished cigarette, with an elderly resident in a neighbouring property assisted to safety after their house was affected by smoke.
Just days later, another unattended cigarette was the cause of a significant fire in a Box Hill North weatherboard home.
FRV Commander Julian Bisbal, who led the response to the Moorabbin fire, said the incidents should serve as a wake-up call to the devastation unattended cigarettes can cause.
“It’s imperative you make sure your cigarette is disposed of in an area that cannot catch or spread fire. It was a ferocious, fast-moving fire because of the wind on that day.” Julian said.
“People think a cigarette is tame and safe, because it’s in your hand, but in reality, it can cause devastation. You’re holding an ignition source.”
FRV Deputy Commissioner, Community Safety, Joshua Fischer said the statistics reflected the gravity of the danger of cigarettes.
“The numbers don’t lie – cigarettes are dangerous when misused or used while drowsy, and must be handled with extreme caution,” Deputy Commissioner Fischer said.
“If you notice burn marks on a friend or family member’s carpet, furniture, clothing, or nightwear, speak up. Let them know the dangers and encourage them to take action.
“Quitting smoking is the safest option from both a health and fire safety perspective, but if that isn’t possible, firefighters recommend smoking outdoors.”
Country Fire Authority (CFA) Chief Fire Officer Jason Heffernan said smoking while affected by alcohol, drugs or medication can also increase the risk of fire.
“All it takes is a small ember from a cigarette to ignite a fire and you could be facing a life-changing event that puts yourself and others in harm’s way,” Chief Officer Heffernan said.
“We urge all smokers to properly extinguish and dispose of your cigarette in a heavy glass or metal ashtray to prevent any more major fires from occurring.
“As Victorians know, to help safeguard your family, you must have a working smoke alarm in your home. However, if smoking occurs inside your home, please have one in every room.”
Victorian fire services recommend:
If you can, smoke outside the home in a single location.
If smoking occurs in the home, there should be a smoke alarm in every room.
Never smoke in bed.
Don’t smoke when affected by alcohol, drugs or medications that may cause drowsiness.
Use heavy, high-sided, non-combustible ashtrays to dispose of cigarette butts. Pour some water on the ash and butts to make sure they’re out.
“Stick it don’t flick it” – never flick cigarette butts, either inside or outside.
Never leave a lit cigarette unattended and butt out your cigarette before you walk away.
Keep matches and cigarette lighters out of reach of children.
AUSTRAC has released its regulatory priorities for this financial year, outlining new plans to reduce the harms from money laundering, terrorism financing and other serious crime. AUSTRAC CEO Brendan Thomas said financial crime damages Australia’s financial system and this year’s focus is on preparing to regulate ‘tranche 2’ industries and targeting gaps in high-risk sectors such as cash and digital currencies.
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Matthew Hobbs, Associate Professor and Transforming Lives Fellow, Spatial Data Science and Planetary Health, Sheffield Hallam University
In some respects, this finding might seem obvious. Does a person feel the same living in a walkable and leafy suburb with parks and stable neighbours as they would in a more transient neighbourhood with few local services and busy highways?
Probably not. The built and natural environment shapes how safe, supported and settled a person feels.
We wanted to know to what extent a person’s mental health is shaped by where they live – and to what degree a person’s mental health determines where they end up living.
Patterns over time
Most research on the environmental influences on mental health gives us a snapshot of people’s lives at a single point in time. That’s useful, but it doesn’t show how things change over time or how the past may affect the future.
Our study took a slightly different approach. By tracking the same people year after year, we looked at patterns over time: how their mental health shifted, whether they moved house, their access to positive and negative environmental features, and how the areas they lived in changed when it came to factors such as poverty, unemployment and overcrowding.
We also looked at things like age, body size and how much people exercised, all of which can influence mental health, too.
To make sense of such complex and interconnected data, we turned to modern machine learning tools – in particular Random Forest algorithms. These tools allowed us to build a lot of individual models (trees) looking at how various factors affect mental health.
We could then see which factors come up most often to evaluate both their relative importance and the likely extent of their influence.
We also ran Monte Carlo simulations. Think of these like a high-tech crystal ball, to explore what might happen to mental health over time if neighbourhood conditions improved.
These simulations produced multiple future scenarios with better neighbourhood conditions, used Random Forest to forecast mental health outcomes in each, and then averaged the results.
A negative feedback loop
What we uncovered was a potential negative feedback loop. People who had depression or anxiety were more likely to move house, and those who moved were, on average, more likely to experience worsening mental health later on.
And there’s more. People with persistent mental health issues weren’t just moving more often, they were also more likely to move into a more deprived area. In other words, poorer mental health was related to a higher likelihood of ending up in places where resources were scarcer and the risk of ongoing stress was potentially higher.
Our study was unable to say why the moves occurred, but it may be that mental health challenges were related to unstable housing, financial strain, or the need for a fresh start. Our future research will try to unpick some of this.
On the flip side, people who didn’t relocate as often, especially those in lower-deprivation areas, tended to have better long-term mental health. So, stability matters. So does the neighbourhood.
Where we live matters
These findings challenge the idea that mental health is just about what’s inside us. Where we live plays a key role in shaping how we feel. But it’s not just that our environment affects our minds. Our minds can also steer us into different environments, too.
Our study shows that mental health and place are potentially locked in a feedback loop. One influences the other and the cycle can either support wellbeing or drive decline.
That has real implications for how we support people with mental health challenges.
In this study, if a person was already struggling, they were more likely to move and more likely to end up somewhere that made life harder.
This isn’t just about individual choice. It’s about the systems we’ve built, housing markets, income inequality, access to care and more. If we want better mental health at a population level, we need to think beyond the individual level. We need to think about place.
Because in the end, mental health doesn’t just live in the mind; it’s also rooted in the places we live.
The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Today, U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) filed an amendment to the rescissions package currently before the Senate to block the Department of Energy’s federal loan guarantees from bankrolling the Grain Belt Express, a Green New Deal project fiercely opposed by Missouri farmers and ranchers.
“The Department of Energy should not be using taxpayer dollars to fund green scams at the expense of Missouri’s farmers and ranchers. The Biden Administration shoved the $4.9 billion federal loan guarantee through at the eleventh hour because they knew it was illegal and immoral. It’s time to defund the Grain Belt Express once and for all,” Senator Hawley said.
For years, Senator Hawley has been working to defund the Grain Belt Express and protect Missourians’ land. Just last week, Senator Hawley secured a pledge from Energy Secretary Chris Wright to rescind the Grain Belt Express loan guarantees.
Read the full amendment here.
Today, U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) chaired a Judiciary subcommittee hearing revealing Big Tech’s role behind the unchecked piracy of copyrighted content to fuel companies’ artificial intelligence (AI) models. The hearing featured witness testimony from bestselling author David Baldacci as well as AI experts and law professors who lent credence to Senator Hawley’s claim: AI companies, namely Meta, have crossed the line of technological innovation into corporate crime.
“Today’s hearing is about the largest intellectual property theft in American history. . . . AI companies are training their models on stolen material, period. . . . And we’re not talking about these companies simply scouring the internet for what’s publicly available. We’re talking about piracy,” Senator Hawley said.
“Are we going to protect [Americans’ creative community], or are we going to allow a few mega-corporations to vacuum it all up, digest it, and make billions of dollars in profits—maybe trillions—and pay nobody for it. That’s not America,” the Senator argued, explaining that the issue at hand is a moral one as much as a legal one.
Baldacci went on to point out the harm mass piracy poses to America’s authors, songwriters, and other creative producers, whose works are now in the crosshairs of Big Tech’s lawlessness.
“Every single one of my books was presented to me . . . in three seconds. It really felt like I had been robbed of everything of my entire adult life that I had worked on,” Baldacci said.
Key revelations uncovered during the hearing include:
AI companies being trained on over 200 terabytes of copyrighted work—or, in other words, billions of pages that would fill approximately 22 Libraries of Congress.
Big Tech having pirated this work by illegally downloading it.
AI companies having facilitated other actors’ piracy by illegally uploading more than 50 terabytes of copyrighted works for others’ use.
Meta knowing it was engaging in illegal activity.
• Employees internally warned each other that Meta’s piracy was illegal—and then brazenly made light of it.
• Meta concealed its pirating via non-Meta servers, so its criminal acts would not be traced back to the company.
Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee today emphasized the importance of establishing protections to help creators—musicians, artists, writers, and others—access the courts to protect their copyrighted works if and when they are used to train generative artificial intelligence (AI) models. Senator Welch urged Congress to pass the Transparency and Responsibility for Artificial Intelligence Networks (TRAIN) Act, bipartisan legislation that would allow copyright holders to access training records used for AI models to determine if their work was used—a process currently used for internet piracy.
“The AI companies need content, so they don’t care where it comes from. It’s just a voracious, insatiable appetite, and they’re going to go into copyrighted material. We know that, and to suggest they won’t, I think, is naïve. And the question, and the burden here is—that is going into copyrighted material. And the artist has the right to have that copyright respected. The burden is that how do you know they used it? That’s the whole point of the TRAIN Act, where if there is copyright infringement, a reasonable assertion of that and suspicion of it is going to require disclosure on the part of the AI platform,” said Senator Welch.
Watch Senator Welch’s full remarks below:
Read key excerpts from Senator Welch’s exchange with Michael Smith, Professor of Information Technology and Marketing at Carnegie Mellon University:
“Music is so important. It really helps people get a sense of who they are, it helps people connect, and it’s across political divisions. That’s what’s one of the inspiring things about the incredible contributions that musicians provide to our society. Can you just explain what the dangers are of allowing AI models to freely train off of copyrighted works?” asked Senator Welch.
Mr. Michael Smith testified: “There are multiple dangers…When you sign a license with a generative AI company, you’re signing with a gun to your head because they can say, ‘either sign what I’m offering or I’m going to go steal it instead.’ That’s troubling.”
Senator Welch: “This is the concern I have about how this AI…is going to make it tougher for those folks against great odds to keep at it. So maybe you could just—from your experience—talk a little bit about how it would adversely impact any chance they have of being able to pay their bills at the end of the month while they’re trying to create inspirational music for the benefit of all of us.”
Mr. Smith: “I deeply share that concern, Senator, and it’s based on peer-reviewed academic research showing that creative output goes down when piracy is allowed to flourish. I worry that the future David Baldaccis of the world won’t get through that hump. And we won’t get to appreciate their creative output if we allow piracy to be used to continue to train these generative AI models.”
Senator Welch is focused on strengthening consumer protections and safety around emerging technologies, including AI. Last Congress, Senator Welch introduced the Artificial Intelligence Consumer Opt-In, Notification Standards, and Ethical Norms for Training (AI CONSENT) Act, legislation that would require online platforms to obtain consumers’ express informed consent before using their personal data to train AI models. Senator Welch also introduced the Digital Platform Commission Act, legislation to create an expert federal agency to provide comprehensive regulation of digital platforms to protect consumers, promote competition, and safeguard the public interest.
Learn more about Senator Welch’s work by visiting his website or by following him on social media.
Source: United States Senator Pete Ricketts (Nebraska)
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) led a group of colleagues in sending a letter to Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick on shaping regulations to position the United States as the world capital of artificial intelligence (AI). The letter calls for the administration to release a rule that creates an environment for American innovators to compete and win, while keeping frontier tech out of the hands of America’s adversaries. This rule will be another step in the administration’s work to ensure the United States dominates the global AI ecosystem. The letter reads:
“We can only win the AI race with Communist China if we are wisely limiting our foreign adversary’s opportunities to develop frontier AI and enabling American companies to compete quickly in the global marketplace. Both prongs are important and the balance between them are crucial. America is winning the AI race, but the competition has been hard fought and will continue to be. Steps must be taken quickly since investments happening now will create the world’s tech ecosystem for decades to come.”
The letter follows an April letter led by Senator Ricketts, urging Secretary Lutnick to rescind the Biden Administration’s AI Diffusion Rule. This Biden-era policy created obstacles to innovation and cooperation by applying tiers and caps on allies seeking to access American technology. The Trump administration rescinded the AI Diffusion Rule on May 7.
The letter was also signed by Senators Kevin Cramer (ND), John Kennedy (LA), James Lankford (OK), and Rick Scott (FL).
Read the full letter here or below.
Dear Secretary Lutnick,
Under President Trump’s leadership, the United States is shaping emerging technologies globally and positioned as the world capital of artificial intelligence (AI). The President’s cabinet is unshackling American energy, cutting burdensome red tape, and unwinding Biden’s bad policies. One important example of bolstering American prosperity was your decision to rescind and replace the Biden administration’s AI Diffusion Rule. This rule would have helped China win the AI race, and replacing this rule quickly will provide American innovators a stable environment to compete and win.
The Biden Administration’s AI Diffusion Rule, as accurately stated on the Bureau of Industry and Security’s website, “…would have stifled American innovation and saddled companies with burdensome new regulatory requirements.” The rule undermined relationships with allies and partners around the world. It hamstrung American companies, and the rule ultimately gave friendly nations an incentive to turn to Communist China for their emerging tech needs. Repealing this rule was a step forward for the nation.
While we are currently ahead of Communist China in the AI race, we must continue to help our nation, companies, and innovators succeed. Failure to maintain our lead in AI development means that we could be at the mercy of Communist China for many critical industries. Examples include cryptography, next-generation pharmaceuticals, and advanced defense materials. President Trump has been at the forefront of securing investment during his recent successful trip to the Middle East. He closed deals promoting U.S. technology as the global standard and secured landmark investments in frontier AI development at home. We must continue to capitalize on this momentum by ensuring allies and partners building out their AI investments see the U.S. as the superior, most reliable partner.
One crucial next step in this competition is providing American innovators, exporters, and nations around the world a stable exporting structure. Mr. Secretary, your testimony before the Senate Appropriations Committee included key elements of an AI diffusion framework that would enable American AI diffusion around the world while also limiting China’s ability to develop frontier AI. The Trump administration should not return to Biden’s tiers and caps that confused close allies and partners.
Instead, know-your-customer and security controls should be applied to technologies designed to train frontier AI models. This approach, while allowing other American technologies to flow freely, will ensure the United States dominates the global AI ecosystem.
We can only win the AI race with Communist China if we are wisely limiting our foreign adversary’s opportunities to develop frontier AI and enabling American companies to compete quickly in the global marketplace. Both prongs are important and the balance between them are crucial. America is winning the AI race, but the competition has been hard fought and will continue to be. Steps must be taken quickly since investments happening now will create the world’s tech ecosystem for decades to come.
We thank you for your decisive actions so far bolstering American leadership, security, and prosperity. We look forward to working with you and President Trump to make America the AI capital of the world.
Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin
WASHINGTON, D.C. – On the third anniversary of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) is slamming the Trump Administration’s dangerous decision to cut services for at-risk children. Baldwin, who first created the three-digit hotline in 2020 with her Republican colleague, has worked to successfully fund the lifeline in annual appropriations bills and expand its reach to serve more people in crisis. Despite the hotline’s enormous success, including receiving more than 16.5 million contacts via calls, texts, and chats, the Trump Administration is working to dismantle one of its key programs that provides specialized services for LGBTQ+ youth. The program has received over 1.2 million crisis contacts since 2022, with an increasing number of contacts each year.
“Three years later, I am just filled with so much pride to have passed legislation and made getting help that much easier. More and more people are facing tough times, and more and more people are turning to this three-digit lifeline. I have no doubt that the people answering these calls, texts, and chats are saving lives,” said Senator Tammy Baldwin. “And just one day after the anniversary, the Trump Administration is dismantling a key part of it and cutting off specialized services for gay, lesbian, bi, and trans children. This outrageous and cruel attack on LGBTQ+ youth comes at a time when we should be building on the success of this lifesaving service, not turning suicide prevention into a partisan issue. I’ll fight tooth and nail to stop this administration from taking away this precious lifeline, and I call on my Republican colleagues who have long supported this program to fight for these kids, too.”
In May, reports surfaced that President Trump’s proposed budget would eliminate 988’s LGBTQ+ Youth Specialized Services program, prompting Senator Baldwin to call on Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. to reconsider the proposal and support continued funding for the program.
Senator Baldwin wrote the legislation to create the three-digit 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline and fought to stand up a pilot program for LGBTQ+ youth to address higher rates of suicide and mental health challenges among this population. As chair of the appropriations subcommittee that funds 988, Senator Baldwin led the effort to ensure 988 was adequately funded, including providing funding for specialized services for LGBTQ+ youth. That funding has ultimately been included in appropriations bills that have passed with overwhelmingly bipartisan support. Recognizing the overwhelming need for these services, Congress expanded the program beyond a pilot in fiscal year 2023.
Since the lifeline launched, it has received nearly 16.5 million contacts, including 11.1 million calls, 2.9 million texts, and 2.4 million chats. In 2025, the answer rate hit its highest point since inception, 92 percent, but cutting funding for specialized services puts that in jeopardy.
The Trevor Project found that nearly 40 percent of LGBTQ+ young people seriously considered attempting suicide in the previous year, and 12 percent of LGBTQ+ young people attempted suicide, rates much higher than those present among non-LGBTQ+ youth. These specialized services connect LGBTQ+ youth with specially trained crisis counselors, similar to other dedicated programs for veterans and service members.
Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Jim Banks (R-IN) called on the Trump Administration to strengthen enforcement and oversight of important defense trade agreements to ensure they support U.S. businesses, workers, and our industrial base. Currently, the Department of Defense has 28 of these trade agreements, known as Reciprocal Defense Procurement agreements, with partner countries like Japan, Germany, and the U.K. These agreements waive both the U.S.’s Buy America requirements and similar laws in partner countries, opening up the opportunity for foreign companies to sell products and services to the Department of Defense. However, a recent Government Accountability Office (GAO) report found that entities within the Department of Defense (DoD) skipped important steps in creating and renewing these agreements, sometimes skirting or undermining important Buy America requirements that are meant to put American businesses and workers first.
“A robust defense industrial base is essential for national security and economic resilience, as it underpins the development, maintenance, and deployment of U.S. military assets. While RDPs can have positive impacts in facilitating integration with our partners and allies and enable positive exchanges, the significant impact of RDP agreements on our domestic industrial base necessitates rigorous scrutiny in their review, approval, and renewal,” wrote the Senators. “With the growing number of RDP agreements, we expect that your Agency Secretaries will thoroughly review and refine the process for entering into and renewing these agreements, ensuring they bolster U.S. industry while fortifying our defense partnerships.”
In the letter, the Senators expressed concerns that RDP agreements have been used to waive “Buy American” requirements that are designed to ensure that taxpayer dollars support American businesses and workers to help bolster the U.S. economy, ensure a skilled domestic workforce, and strengthen our industrial base. Current Department of Defense rules provide a blanket “public interest” waiver of all Buy American requirements for defense materiel from any trading partner with an RDP agreement. Given these waivers, the Senators urged the Trump Administration to ensure that any RDP agreement has thoroughly assessed the implications on American businesses, workers, and the defense industrial base before they are finalized or renewed.
As outlined in the GAO report, the Senators also expressed concerns that the DoD is making these trade agreements without sufficient input from domestic industry. While the Department of Commerce is authorized to initiate a review of existing RDP agreements if they believe they could have adverse impacts on domestic industry, they have never completed such a review, even for RDPs that have been renewed several times. The Senators requested that the International Trade Commission review RDPs, allowing U.S. companies to have clear opportunities to alert the administration when a proposed trade agreement may harm them.
A recent GAO report also reviewed all existing RDP agreements, showing on several occasions the administration failed to properly scrutinize these agreements. According to GAO, since 2018, DoD has skipped important due diligence steps for entering into and renewing RDP agreements. For three agreements, DoD did not solicit U.S. industry input, and for another agreement, DoD did not seek analysis from Commerce, as required by law. The GAO also found that DoD waives Buy America requirements for partner countries even if their RDP agreement has expired. The GAO further found there was insufficient compliance with a 2021 requirement that the Made in America Office review RDP agreements to ensure domestic producers will have equal and proportional access to partner defense markets.
“We must ensure that any RDP agreements undergo rigorous scrutiny with transparent decision-making processes and input from industry stakeholders. The decision to enter or renew such agreements should be guided by strategic imperatives, not expediency. Our domestic industrial base should be able to take priority when that goal clashes with other priorities,” the Senators concluded. “Given the results of the GAO report, we urge the administration to review the RDP agreements process to ensure that such agreements fulfill their intended purpose of supporting U.S. industry and manufacturers while still bolstering our defense relationships with allies and partners.”
A full version of this letter is available here and below.
Dear Mr. President,
We write to raise concerns that shortcomings in the Reciprocal Defense Procurement (RDP) agreements process may be negatively impacting our defense industrial base. A recent Government Accountability Office (GAO) report shows that there needs to be a more robust review process for establishing and renewing RDP agreements, and your America First Trade Policy report similarly identified these agreements as a point of concern. We urge the administration to review and update the RDP agreement process to ensure that such agreements support the U.S. industrial base, to include establishing an interagency review process to oversee such agreements.
A robust defense industrial base is essential for national security and economic resilience, as it underpins the development, maintenance, and deployment of U.S. military assets. While RDPs can have positive impacts in facilitating integration with our partners and allies and enable positive exchanges, the significant impact of RDP agreements on our domestic industrial base necessitates rigorous scrutiny in their review, approval, and renewal. With the growing number of RDP agreements, we expect that your Agency Secretaries will thoroughly review and refine the process for entering into and renewing these agreements, ensuring they bolster U.S. industry while fortifying our defense partnerships.
RDP agreements are trade agreements for direct government procurement negotiated solely by the Department of Defense (DoD) with foreign counterparts, without Congressional ratification. Since first authorized by Congress in 1988, the DoD has entered into 28 RDP agreements and 6 related agreements with both North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) member-states, major non-NATO allies, and other partner countries. Most agreements include automatic extension provisions. We understand that the DoD is currently negotiating new agreements.
We are concerned that RDP agreements have been used to waive or otherwise undermine “Buy American” requirements and similar domestic preferences that are in place to ensure that taxpayer dollars support American businesses and workers by prioritizing domestically produced goods and materiel when federal agencies make procurement decisions. This helps to bolster the U.S. economy, ensure a skilled domestic workforce, and strengthen our industrial base. Current DoD regulations (DFARS 225.872- 1) provide a blanket “public interest” waiver of all Buy American requirements for defense materiel for any foreign supplier from a country with an active reciprocal defense procurement agreement. The RDP agreement process should ensure that the administration has thoroughly assessed the implications on our industrial base before they are finalized or renewed.
We are also concerned that the DoD may be making decisions about RDP agreements without sufficient input from domestic industry. Federal law authorizes the Department of Commerce to initiate an interagency review of existing RDP agreements if Commerce has reason to believe an agreement either has or could have “a significant adverse effect on the international competitive position of the U.S. industry.” To date, Commerce has never completed such a review, even for RDPs that have been renewed several times. The administration can address this shortcoming by ensuring that Commerce and the International Trade Commission review RDPs and that the process includes mechanisms and transparency to allow for domestic industry input. U.S. companies should have clear opportunities to alert the administration when a proposed trade agreement may harm them.
At Congress’ request, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) recently completed a review of all existing RDP agreements, and their findings verify our concerns. According to GAO, since 2018, DoD has skipped important due diligence steps for entering into and renewing RDP agreements. For three agreements, DoD did not solicit U.S. industry input, and for another agreement, DoD did not seek analysis from Commerce, as required by law. Additionally, GAO found that Commerce’s methodology to assess RDP agreements has several weaknesses, including that it does not analyze the impact of RDP agreements on services. In Fiscal Year 2022, services comprised 49 percent of the value of DoD procurement. The GAO also found that DoD waives Buy America requirements for partner countries even if their RDP agreement has expired. The GAO further found there was insufficient compliance with a 2021 requirement that the Made in America Office review RDP agreements to ensure domestic producers will have equal and proportional access to partner defense markets.
We must ensure that any RDP agreements undergo rigorous scrutiny with transparent decision-making processes and input from industry stakeholders. The decision to enter or renew such agreements should be guided by strategic imperatives, not expediency. Our domestic industrial base should be able to take priority when that goal clashes with other priorities.
Given the results of the GAO report, we urge the administration to review the RDP agreements process to ensure that such agreements fulfill their intended purpose of supporting U.S. industry and manufacturers while still bolstering our defense relationships with allies and partners. We encourage you to implement GAO’s recommendations and ensure all RDPs undergo robust interagency review.
Thank you for your attention to this critical matter. We look forward to your response.
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04) announced she will host a telephone town hall on Wednesday, July 23rd at 5:30 PM Pacific Standard Time (PST). Rep. Hoyle will share updates about what’s going on in Congress and how it’s impacting communities in the district. It is also an opportunity to ask Rep. Hoyle questions and get answers directly from her.
How to Join
To join the tele-town hall, constituents of Oregon’s 4th district should fill out the form linked here. The form will close on Wednesday, July 23rd at 10:00 AM PST.
What’s a telephone town hall?
A tele-town hall is a town hall meeting done over the telephone with Rep. Hoyle and other constituents in the district. It’s a way for her to be in conversation with as many people as possible and provide direct updates while she is in Washington, D.C. for votes. After filling out the form above, you will receive a call from her at the designated start time and be invited to stay on the line to join. After joining the call, attendees will receive instructions on how to ask a question.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sara Jacobs (D-CA-53)
July 16, 2025
Washington, D.C. — Reps. Sara Jacobs and James Moylan introduced bipartisan legislation to improve the effectiveness and streamline the coordination of U.S. security assistance.
The U.S. spends billions of dollars on military assistance for partners and allies around the world, and yet the payoffs are often limited, inconsistent, and not strategic. The bifurcation and bureaucracy of U.S. security assistance between the State Department and the Defense Department often result in inconsistent communication, collaboration, or evaluation of the effectiveness of U.S. security assistance. The bipartisan United States Security Assistance Effectiveness Act would address these challenges, strengthen the State Department’s capacity, and make security assistance more strategic, accountable, and effective in advancing U.S. values and priorities.
Rep. Sara Jacobs said: “Security assistance is a critical part of our national security toolbox, but bottlenecks in bureaucracy, poor communication, and insufficient evaluation can mean that we’re not advancing – and at times, we’re undermining – our foreign policy goals. That’s why I’m proud to introduce the bipartisan United States Security Assistance Effectiveness Act to enhance the State Department’s capacity to track, approve, coordinate, and evaluate U.S. security assistance. Every year, the U.S. transfers billions of dollars of military training, support, and equipment, and we should feel confident that it’s being spent wisely, ethically, and effectively.”
“This bill strengthens our national interests by streamlining how we deliver security assistance to our global partners, especially in the Indo-Pacific,” said Congressman Moylan. “This coordinated strategy enhances international defense cooperation while advancing regional stability in today’s rapidly evolving security environment. I’m proud to work with Congresswoman Jacobs on this bipartisan legislation to establish a needs-based, partner-specific, and transparent approach to security assistance.”
The U.S. Security Assistance Effectiveness Act would:
Streamline organizational structure for security assistance, including by elevating the Office of Security Assistance to be led by a Coordinator to guide and support security assistance; maintain a common database on security assistance and security cooperation; coordinate the Assessment, Monitoring, and Evaluation (AME) program; and establish a security assistance framework to guide regional and country-specific planning
Establish curriculum at the Foreign Service Institute to provide specialized training on security assistance, including on coordination requirements, relevant laws and practices, and effectiveness of security assistance
Require a GAO report on coordination between the State Department and the Defense Department on security assistance and security cooperation programs
Require the State Department and Defense Department to establish a common database of all security assistance and security cooperation programs and activities
Require the establishment of an assessment, monitoring, and evaluation (AME) program for any country receiving security assistance to define goals and measure outcomes
Mandate a framework to guide regional and country-specific planning on security assistance and the Coordinator to annually submit to Congress a list of priority recipient countries for security assistance
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10)
Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA10), a member of the House Armed Services Committee, released the following statement after the House Armed Services Committee passed H.R. 3838, the Streamlining Procurement for Effective Execution and Delivery and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (NDAA).
“I am proud to lead innovative and impactful provisions in the current version of this year’s defense policy bill that will improve readiness, and enhance the quality of life for servicemembers and their families. From housing, food access and healthcare, to direct funds for JBLM — this bill reflects our bipartisan commitment to supporting those who defend and serve our nation,” said Strickland.
Under Strickland’s leadership, the bill includes key provisions to boost the quality of life for servicemembers and their families:
Naming Commission for Military Assets
Prohibits the use of federal funds to revert recommendations from the Congressionally established Confederate Naming Commission for military bases and honor Confederate leaders.
Housing
Mandates methods to ensure that Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) rates are accurate reflections of regional market trends.
Allows the use of cost-effective materials in housing renovations, and delays historic preservation requirements until the housing structure is 100 years old.
Requires a detailed report on the acquisition and the implementation of the Global Household Goods contract following the cancellation of HomeSafe Alliance LLC.
Nutrition
Removes BAH from total household income calculations used to determine Basic Needs Allowance (BNA) eligibility.
Requires an annual report, for five years, on how subsistence allowances and food programs are utilized.
Healthcare
Includes Strickland’s bipartisan MIDWIVES bill.
Creates a pilot program, allowing beneficiaries to select an OB/GYN provider and receive care without a referral.
Extends free TRICARE dental coverage to Reserve Component servicemembers.
Secures a report on the TRICARE contract acquisition and implementation, healthcare delivery, and learned lessons that can be applied to the East and West regions.
Historically Black Colleges and Universities
Allocates nearly $125 million — $25 million more than the President’s request — for Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
Joint Base Lewis-McChord
Authorizes $68 million for an Airfield Fire & Rescue Station, replacing the over 70-year-old Fire Station 105.
Authorizes $70 million for a Command & Control Facility.
Mandates a report studying the creation of a public database on non-combat military plane crashes, including details in response to Strickland’s Flight 293 bill.
Army Museums
Establishes closure criteria for the Secretary of the Army’s management of the museum system, preventing the Secretary from closing local museums – including the Lewis Army Museum — without Congressional input.
Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. She is Whip of the New Democrat Coalition, Secretary of the Congressional Black Caucus, and is one of the first Korean-American women elected to Congress.
Source: US Whitehouse
Today, surrounded by families who have lost loved ones to the scourge of fentanyl, President Donald J. Trump officially signed the HALT Fentanyl Act into law — permanently classifying fentanyl-related substances as a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act.
As President Trump said, the legislation is “delivering another defeat for the savage drug smugglers and criminals and the cartels” — and is just one of the many historic actions the Trump Administration has taken to end the carnage wrought by foreign drug cartels in our communities.
President Trump was joined by a few of the millions of Americans whose lives have been permanently changed by the fentanyl epidemic:
Greg Swan, who lost his son to fentanyl: “I would just like to say, thank you, Mr. President, for stopping the border crossings — full stop, mic drop … It was amazing what you did. We were being gaslit — and you came and lit a fire to that story, and we’re a lot safer for of it.” Watch
Anne Fundner, who lost her son to fentanyl: “In the last four years, fentanyl became the number one killer to Americans ages 15 to 48 … President Trump, for four years we felt ignored, but you’ve changed that … It is a lifeline for families across America in keeping our families safe … Thank you for keeping America safe for our children. This is what we voted for.” Watch
Jackie Siegel, who lost her daughter and sister to drug overdoses: “Mr. President, it’s an honor to be here today on behalf of our family … for this important signing.” Watch
