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Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sens. Budd, Justice, Hawley, Ricketts Introduce Bill to Increase Transparency of Foreign Funds Fueling Left-Wing Agitators

    US Senate News:

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

    FRONT Act would require U.S. nonprofits to register under FARA if they accept funds from hostile nations

    Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) led his colleagues in introducing the Foreign Registration Obligations for Nonprofit Transparency (FRONT) Act today, which would require nonprofits in the United States that receive funding from foreign principals in countries of concern, such as China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, Venezuela, and Cuba, to register under the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA). The bill would also require nonprofits to disclose the activities they use foreign funds to engage in to mitigate future unrest.

    “There are serious indicators recent left-wing riots, protests, and rallies resulting in violence and political unrest are funded by foreign agitators. It’s time for American nonprofit organizations to be transparent about where they are getting their funding from. No foreign country with hostile intentions should be meddling in our democratic process. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting the FRONT Act to increase transparency and help put a stop to this,” said Senator Budd.

    “Let me just say this and be clear: foreign influence in our country’s nonprofits ends now. The FRONT Act ensures that any money coming from our adversaries, like China, will be fully disclosed. This bill is common-sense, provides much needed transparency, and I’m proud to join Senator Budd in this effort,” said Senator Justice.

    “I am concerned that U.S. non-profits are receiving foreign funding from our adversaries and countries of concern. Senator Budd’s FRONT Act hardens the United States’ ability to monitor potentially malign influence of non-profits from foreign adversaries. In order to stop adversaries such as Communist China, Russia, and Iran, we must have the tools to better understand their efforts to infiltrate our American system and influence our institutions,” said Senator Ricketts.

    Senators Jim Justice (R-W.Va.), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), and Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.) joined Senator Budd in introducing the bill.

    Read the full bill text HERE.

    Background

    Recent civil unrest has raised alarms about possible foreign influence impacting U.S. nonprofits that organize and provide material support for protests.

    For example, when it comes to riots against ICE enforcement operations, FBI Director Kash Patel has publicly stated, “The FBI is investigating any and all monetary connections responsible for these riots.” Reports have also indicated that “[the] socialist group [which] promoted the chaotic anti-deportation protests in Los Angeles…is tied to a network of groups bankrolled by a pro-China millionaire.”

    But this is just the surface of a deeply troubling trend of foreign interference in our political processes. As former Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines claimed, “We have observed actors tied to Iran’s government posing as activists online, seeking to encourage protests, and even providing financial support to protesters,” following the October 7 attacks.

    What we’re witnessing is not isolated. Safeguarding our political system from continued foreign interference must be a top national security priority to protect the integrity of our democracy.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Maxwell Frost Statement on the Murder of Saifullah Kamel Musallet

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Maxwell Frost Florida (10th District)

    July 15, 2025

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost (FL-10) issued a statement following reports of the horrific murder of Florida resident, Saifullah Kamel Musallet, a Palestinian-American visiting family in the West Bank.

    In a statement, Rep. Frost says:

    “The horrific and cold-blooded murder of an American citizen by Israeli settlers in the West Bank cannot be ignored. Saifullah Kamel Musallet, a Palestinian-American and Floridian, was brutally murdered, and his attackers reportedly deliberately obstructed medical assistance to ensure he would die.

    “The loss of his life serves as a stark reminder of the pain, suffering, and conflict ongoing in the West Bank and Gaza.

    “As our country’s self-proclaimed peacekeeper, Donald Trump has a moral and constitutional obligation to direct the Department of State to conduct a thorough investigation and, more importantly, to demand full justice and accountability for those responsible for this heinous act. Our country must ensure the protection and safety of Americans abroad.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Maxwell Frost Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Support Public Transit and Lower Bus Procurement Costs

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Maxwell Frost Florida (10th District)

    July 16, 2025

    Frost’s Transit Bus Affordability Act Would Empower the Federal Government to Help Cities Purchase Buses More Efficiently and Expand Local Transit Access

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost (D-FL) and Congressman Michael Turner (R-OH) introduced the Transit Bus Affordability Act, a bipartisan bill aimed at helping local transit agencies and bus manufacturers find ways to reduce the cost of new buses in order to meet the growing demand for bus ridership.

    The legislation comes at a pivotal moment: in 2024, Americans took 7.7 billion public transportation trips – nearly half a billion more than the previous year – marking a 25% increase in ridership since 2022. To meet this rising demand and better serve existing riders, communities need more buses. But steep and rising prices are making that difficult. Today, a single transit bus can cost upwards of $1 million, with average prices hovering around $800,000.

    Despite the severity of the issue, there has been little federal-level analysis or strategy to reduce transit bus procurement costs. The Transit Bus Affordability Act would change that as the bill directs the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to review and analyze the current drivers of transit bus costs and recommend actionable strategies to reduce them.

    “Public transit is a lifeline for folks who depend on these services to get to work, school, doctor appointments, and more,” said Rep. Frost. “But the rising cost for a city or town to purchase a single bus is holding back local transit agencies from meeting demand and expanding service. This bill is a first step toward understanding the root of the problem and driving down costs so that communities can invest in more reliable, affordable transit options.”

    “As the former Mayor of Dayton, I understand the burden procurement costs place on local transit agencies, which subsequently impact the availability and reliability for riders,” said Congressman Turner. “That is why I am proud to work with Rep. Frost on the Transit Bus Affordability Act. Our bipartisan legislation will help inform lawmakers on the federal, state and local levels on options to lower bus costs – which will ultimately lead to savings-generating strategies for transit agencies providing essential services to riders in communities like Dayton and those across the country.”

    The bill is endorsed by The Bus Coalition, GILLIG, and ABC Companies.

    “At ABC Companies, our commitment to advancing safe, efficient, and sustainable transportation spans the full spectrum of passenger mobility, from public transit to private motorcoach fleets. We proudly endorse the Transit Bus Affordability Act and commend Representatives Frost and Turner for their bold, bipartisan leadership. With more than five decades of experience serving operators across North America, we understand the cost pressures and operational challenges transportation providers face every day. The Government Accountability Office (GAO) study presents an important opportunity to explore practical and scalable solutions that can help make modern transportation more accessible and cost-effective for the communities that depend on it,” said Jay Oakman, Chief Operating Officer, ABC Companies.

    “Simply put, transit buses are too expensive, and it takes too long for new buses to hit the road. The Transit Bus Affordability Act is an essential tool to help us better understand how to stretch federal dollars further, streamline the procurement process, and incentivize competition in the bus manufacturing marketplace. The Bus Coalition applauds Representatives Frost and Turner for introducing a commonsense bill to objectively examine the bus market and identify the impediments to a more efficient and cost-effective procurement system. We need this legislation to foster a healthy marketplace—and ultimately to make transit more affordable and accessible for riders across the country,” said Ed Redfern, Executive Director, The Bus Coalition.

    The Transit Bus Affordability Act instructs the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to review the factors responsible for the current costs of transit bus manufacturing and procurement in order to recommend ways to mitigate those costs. The review must look at several factors including:

    • Cost drivers in design and procurement; 
    • How transit bus costs and prices in the United States compare with those in other countries;
    • How transit bus costs compare with the manufacturing of other large vehicles; and
    • Steps taken by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), the states, transit agencies, manufacturers, and other stakeholders to reduce costs and accelerate delivery times.

    As this work is already within GAO’s mandate, this legislation has no budgetary impact while offering a path toward cost savings, economic growth, and more effective use of local, state, and federal taxpayer dollars.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Clyde & McCormick Introduce Legislation to Help Keep Lake Lanier Parks Open

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Andrew S. Clyde (R-GA)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressmen Andrew Clyde (GA-09) and Rich McCormick (GA-07) introduced the Lanier Parks Local Access Act to allow local partners that manage multiple recreation sites at a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) civil works project to use collected user fees across all sites they oversee at that project, rather than being limited to spending the fees only at the specific site where the funds were collected. Both Members represent and serve portions of Lake Lanier.

     

    Constructed by the USACE in the 1950s, Lake Lanier has 76 recreational areas, including 37 Corps-operated parks and campgrounds, 10 marinas, and the Lake Lanier Islands. The remaining sites are leased to local governments or other organizations.

     

    “I’ve long fought to protect Lake Lanier, including against misguided efforts to rename the lake as well as recent temporary closures of parks and boat ramps,” said Clyde. “Expanding local governments’ authority over user fees provides a strong incentive for cities and counties to lease recreational sites from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, therefore ensuring more areas remain open. I’m confident that my legislation offers a simple yet effective solution to help keep Lake Lanier parks open, safe, and well-maintained for residents and visitors alike.”

     

    “I’m proud to join Rep. Clyde in supporting the Lanier Parks Local Access Act, a commonsense piece of legislation that empowers local governments with the flexibility they need to effectively manage and maintain public recreation sites,” said McCormick. “This bill ensures that user fees work smarter, not harder, to keep our parks accessible, safe, and clean. I’m grateful for the opportunity to work alongside Rep. Clyde to support strong community spaces for families and visitors to enjoy!”

     

    Bill text of the Lanier Parks Local Access Act is available HERE.

     

    Background

     

    Due to staffing shortages, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has been unable to keep all its recreation sites on Lake Lanier open and well-maintained. While some parks have reopened in recent weeks due to Reps. Clyde and McCormick’s efforts, the two partnered on legislation to provide a permanent solution to help keep these sites open and avoid additional closures in the future.

     

    Current law enables local governments to keep user fees they collect, but only if the funds are used at the same park where they were collected. This creates issues for day use parks that don’t charge fees. Therefore, local governments are less likely to manage these sites given there are no funds available to support their upkeep.

     

    The Lanier Parks Local Access Act fixes this problem by allowing local partners to use collected fees for any park or facility within the project site. This solution provides local governments with more flexibility to keep all public recreation sites open, safe, and clean — regardless of whether the area charges fees.

     

    While the legislation delivers this commonsense solution to any local government managing recreation sites or facilities located at a USACE-operated civil works project, the bill bears Lake Lanier’s name given the tremendous impact it would have on the lake and surrounding communities. Reps. Clyde and McCormick both represent portions of Lake Lanier, which is the most-visited U.S. Army Corps of Engineers project.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Valadao Works to Reform Our Nation’s Immigration System

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman David G. Valadao (California)

    WASHINGTON – Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) joined Rep. Salazar (FL-27), Rep. Escobar (TX-16), and a bipartisan delegation of 17 members to introduce the Dignity Act of 2025. This bill creates the Dignity Program, which offers a 7-year temporary legal status for undocumented immigrants who have been in the United States for 5 years or more (since before 2021) and can meet certain other requirements, including the ability to pass a criminal background check. Once completed, they will be granted legal status, allowing them to live and work in the United States.

    Congressman Valadao was a co-sponsor of the Dignity Act in the 118th Congress.

    “It’s past time for Congress to pass reasonable immigration reform that restores law and order while recognizing the contributions of undocumented immigrants who have built their lives here,” said Congressman Valadao. “In the Valley there are many people who have lived and worked peacefully for years, and they deserve a fair opportunity to earn legal status. The Dignity Act is a bipartisan step toward fixing our broken immigration system and delivering the reforms our communities need, and I’m proud to join my colleagues in support.”

    “The Dignity Act of 2025 is a revolutionary bill that offers the solution to our immigration crisis: secure the border, stop illegal immigration, and provide an earned opportunity for long-term immigrants to stay here and work,” said Congresswoman Salazar. “No amnesty. No handouts. No citizenship. Just accountability and a path to stability for our economy and our future.”

    “I have seen firsthand the devastating consequences of our broken immigration system, and as a member of Congress, I take seriously my obligation to propose a solution. Realistic, common-sense compromise is achievable, and is especially important given the urgency of this moment. I consider the Dignity Act of 2025 a critical first step to overhauling this broken system,” said Congresswoman Escobar. “Immigrants – especially those who have been in the United States for decades – make up a critical component of our communities and also of the American workforce and economy. The vast majority of immigrants are hard-working, law-abiding residents; and, most Americans recognize that it is in our country’s best interest to find bipartisan reforms. We can enact legislation that incorporates both humanity and security, and the Dignity Act of 2025 offers a balanced approach that restores dignity to people who have tried to navigate a broken system for far too long. The reintroduction of this legislation includes changes that reflect the challenges in today’s political environment. I’m proud of my bipartisan work with Representative Salazar, who has been a strong partner on this issue since December 2022. It is our hope that Congress seizes the opportunity to take an important step forward on this issue.”

    Key provisions of the Dignity Act include:

    • Grants legal status and a path to permanent residency for Dreamers. 
    • Supports American industries—including agriculture—by addressing labor shortages.
    • Takes steps toward legal immigration reform by updating visa categories to align with 21st century needs.
    • Reduces backlogs for high-skilled Employment Based (EB) worker visas.

    Read the full bill here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ramirez Blasts Outrageous Probe, Subpoenas Border Czar Homan, Governor DeSantis, Secretary Rubio for their Unlawful Anti-Immigrant Campaign

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Delia Ramirez – Illinois (3rd District)

    Washington, IL — Today, during a House Homeland Security Committee Hearing,  Congresswoman Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03) blasted Republicans’ reckless and ill-intentioned probe into non-profit service organizations, which persecute organizations that have provided duly authorized, law-abiding services in an effort to intimidate organizations and suppress dissent. 

    While Republicans seek to drag nonprofit organizations for their lawful work, Ramirez and her colleagues demanded that Administration officials come to the committee and account for their complicity in unlawful activities, including:

    • enabling racial profiling by ICE, 
    • misusing federal funding for the construction of a mega prison, 
    • and back-door deals with third-party countries for deportations. 

    To that end, Congresswoman Ramirez moved to subpoena Border Czar Thomas Douglas Homan, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, and Department of State Secretary Marco Rubio.

    “Today, Republicans will lie and gaslight us to help their fascist boss suppress dissent. Who drags the reputations of essential non-profits in our communities? I’ll tell you who – authoritarians, bullies, weak wanna be kings who are scared of civil society,” said Congresswoman Ramirez. “Today’s hearing is unserious, especially since the illegal and unlawful activities are actually being perpetrated by the people in the White House, Cabinet, and Republican leadership. Enough is enough. We demand that Border Czar Homan, Governor DeSantis, and Secretary Rubio come and testify before this committee.”

    Watch her full remarks here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Jayapal Introduces Legislation to End ICE Targeting of US Citizens

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal, Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Immigration, Integrity, Security, and Enforcement, is introducing legislation to formally block Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from detaining or deporting U.S. citizens. 

    “ICE is acting like a rogue force, kidnapping and disappearing people off the streets with no due process,” said Jayapal. “When ICE is conducting immigration enforcement, arresting and detaining U.S. citizens is illegal — and deporting U.S. citizens is illegal, full stop. But since Trump took over, ICE has been consistently breaking these laws and going after U.S. citizens, including young children. Congress must act to make it abundantly clear, with absolutely no grey area, that ICE cannot do this and ensure that agents who do act outside of their authority are held accountable.”

    Since Trump returned to office, multiple reports have surfaced of U.S. citizens being wrongfully arrested, detained, and deported. One citizen, a 19-year-old, was held by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for 10 days after he suffered a seizure and was taken to the hospital without his ID. He approached a Border Patrol agent asking for help, and instead was held for over a week under the false claim that he was a Mexican national. Two U.S. citizen children were also deported to Honduras after their mother was taken by ICE when she showed up for a regular check-in. Another family experienced the exact same situation when their two-year-old was deported with her mother, who was attending a regular check-in. And in the recent California ICE raids, a 25-year-old disabled veteran who is a US citizen was detained and held for three days without access to legal representation or any charges against him.

    ICE has no authority to arrest, detain, or deport U.S. citizens. Their own internal guidance states, “As a matter of law, ICE cannot assert its civil immigration enforcement authority to arrest and/or detain a U.S. citizen.” U.S. citizens also cannot be deported under U.S. law. 

    The Stop ICE from Kidnapping US Citizens Act is sponsored by Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03), Becca Balint (VT-At Large), Nanette Barragán (CA-44), André Carson (IN-07), Greg Casar (TX-35), Judy Chu (CA-28), Jasmine Crockett (TX-30), Danny K. Davis (IL-07), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), Veronica Escobar (TX-16), Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Henry C. “Hank” Johnson, Jr. (GA-04), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-30), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), James P. McGovern (MA-02), Gwen Moore (WI-04), Jerrold Nadler (NY-12), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), Emily Randall (WA-06), Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Lateefah Simon (CA-12), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Jill Tokuda (HI-02), Juan Vargas (CA-52), Nydia M. Velázquez (NY-07), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), and Nikema Williams (GA-05).

    Issues: Civil Rights, Immigration

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Carbajal, Cisneros Reintroduce Bill Allowing DACA Recipients to Join the Military

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Salud Carbajal (CA-24)

    U.S. Representatives Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24) and Gil Cisneros (D-CA-31) reintroduced the Fight for the American Dream Act, legislation that allows participants of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival (DACA) program to serve in the United States military and provides them a pathway toward U.S. citizenship after their service.

    “I’m a proud immigrant and a proud U.S. Marine. Serving in our armed forces was an honor, but DACA recipients don’t have that option,” said Rep. Carbajal. “That’s why I’m proud to partner with my colleague, Congressman Cisneros, on this commonsense bill to provide a clear, stable pathway toward citizenship for DACA recipients who want to serve the country they already call home.”

    “I championed this legislation as the Under Secretary of Defense and I will continue to be a champion for it as a member of Congress,” said Rep. Cisneros. “Our military is made up of people from all backgrounds, united by the desire to protect and serve our nation. DACA recipients, who call this country home, want to contribute and make our country better.  One of the best ways they can do that is by joining the United States Armed Forces.”

    Currently, DACA recipients are barred from joining the U.S. military. The Fight for the American Dream Act would reverse that restriction. Under this Act, Dreamers who are honorably discharged after their service would be given a pathway to grant them U.S. citizenship.

    To read the full bill text, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC MD 1685

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Mesoscale Discussion 1685

    Mesoscale Discussion 1685
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    1240 PM CDT Wed Jul 16 2025

    Areas affected…Central/Southern OH into Far Northern KY

    Concerning…Severe potential…Watch unlikely

    Valid 161740Z – 161945Z

    Probability of Watch Issuance…20 percent

    SUMMARY…Increasing thunderstorm coverage is expected across
    central/southern Ohio and far northern Kentucky this afternoon.
    Isolated damaging gusts are possible with a few of these
    thunderstorm clusters.

    DISCUSSION…Thunderstorm coverage is expected to increase across
    central/southern OH and far northern KY over the next few hours as
    the well-defined MCV currently over far southeast IN progresses
    northeastward into the moist and destabilizing downstream airmass.
    Deep-layer flow across the region is modest, resulting in a
    predominantly multicellular storm mode. However, some enhanced
    low/mid-level southwesterlies will accompany the MCV, which could
    contribute to a few loosely organized, northeastward-progressing
    clusters capable of isolated damaging gusts. Limited severe coverage
    is expected to preclude the need for watch.

    ..Mosier/Smith.. 07/16/2025

    …Please see www.spc.noaa.gov for graphic product…

    ATTN…WFO…PBZ…RLX…CLE…JKL…ILN…LMK…IWX…

    LAT…LON 40048474 40848401 41008225 40288168 38668224 38128386
    38938467 40048474

    MOST PROBABLE PEAK WIND GUST…UP TO 60 MPH

    Top/All Mesoscale Discussions/Forecast Products/Home

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: H.R. 3382, Small Entity Update Act

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    H.R. 3382 would require the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to study its current definition of “small entity” under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA) and revise its rules based on the results of the study. Under current law, agencies subject to the RFA need to determine if their rules have a significant economic effect on small entities, including businesses, nonprofit organizations, and governmental jurisdictions. If so, agencies must consider alternatives that minimize that effect.

    Using information about the cost of similar provisions, CBO estimates that implementing the bill would cost $2 million over the 2025-2030 period. CBO expects that the SEC would need about five employees, at an average annual cost of $330,000 for each employee, to carry out the study and amend the rules. Because the SEC is authorized to collect fees each year to offset its annual appropriation, CBO expects that the net effect on discretionary spending over the 2025-2030 period would be negligible, assuming appropriation actions consistent with that authority.

    If the SEC increases fees to offset the costs associated with implementing the bill, H.R. 3382 would increase the cost of an existing mandate on private entities required to pay those assessments. CBO estimates that the incremental cost of the mandate would be small and would fall well below the threshold established in the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (UMRA) for private-sector mandates ($206 million in 2025, adjusted annually for inflation).

    H.R. 3382 contains no intergovernmental mandates as defined in UMRA.

    The CBO staff contacts for this estimate are Aurora Swanson (for federal costs) and Rachel Austin (for mandates). The estimate was reviewed by H. Samuel Papenfuss, Deputy Director of Budget Analysis.

    Phillip L. Swagel

    Director, Congressional Budget Office

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: H.R. 3351, Improving Access to Small Business Information Act

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    H.R. 3351 would exempt the Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation within the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) from most provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act. The bill would not affect requirements to estimate the burden of collecting information, verify that its collection is necessary, and ensure that people providing information are informed about how it will be used. Under the bill, the office would no longer be required to seek or obtain approval from the Office of Management and Budget to collect information or announce such collections in the Federal Register.

    The exemption under the bill could reduce the SEC’s costs by an insignificant amount each year. Because the SEC is authorized to collect fees each year to offset its annual appropriation, CBO expects that the agency would adjust fees to match lower operating costs. On that basis, CBO estimates that the net effect on discretionary spending over the 2025-2030 period would be negligible, assuming appropriation actions consistent with that authority.

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

    Phillip L. Swagel

    Director, Congressional Budget Office

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Marshals Arrest Two Memphis First-Degree Murder Fugitives in Different States on the Same Day

    Source: US Marshals Service

    Memphis, TN – On July 15, 2025, the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) arrested two women wanted in unrelated Memphis murders in different states. Talia Jones, 19, was arrested in Minneapolis, Minnesota, for Facilitation of First-Degree Murder and Janae Bradley, 32, was arrested in Memphis for First-Degree Murder.

    On January 10, 2025, Patrick Houston Jr., was shot to death near the intersection of Ketchum Road and Long Street in Memphis. Houston is the son of Memphis rapper, Patrick Houston, Sr., also known as Project Pat. Following an investigation by the Memphis Police Department (MPD), on June 27, 2025, a warrant was issued for Talia Jones for Facilitation of First-Degree Murder.

    The case was adopted for a fugitive investigation by the USMS Two Rivers Violent Fugitive Task Force (TRVFTF) in Memphis. Investigators with the TRVFTF developed information that Jones had fled to Minnesota and provided investigative leads to the USMS North Star Fugitive Task Force in Minneapolis. The USMS caught up with Jones yesterday in Minneapolis, but she did not go into custody quietly. She fought Task Force members and actively resisted arrest; however, she was subdued without injury to anyone involved. She is currently in custody awaiting extradition to Tennessee.

    Janae Bradley’s arrest stems from an incident on February 22, 2025, when Terrica Tabor was shot to death near the 2900 block of Third Street in Memphis. MPD investigated the case, and a First-Degree Murder warrant was issued for Bradley on February 26, 2025.

    The fugitive case was adopted by the TRVFTF. By working with known associates, Task Force Investigators convinced Bradley to turn herself in on July 15.

    “The U.S. Marshals Service’s partnership with the Memphis Police Department is strong and effective,” said U.S. Marshal Tyreece Miller. “Our collaboration continues to bring violent offenders to justice.”

    The U.S. Marshals Service Two Rivers Violent Fugitive Task Force is a multi-agency task force within Western Tennessee. The TRVFTF has offices in Memphis and Jackson, and its membership is primarily composed of Deputy U.S. Marshals, Shelby, Fayette, Tipton, and Gibson County Sheriff’s Deputies, Memphis and Jackson Police Officers, Tennessee Department of Correction Special Agents and the Tennessee Highway Patrol. Since 2021, the TRVFTF has captured over 3,000 violent offenders and sexual predators.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: The Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC) and Al Baraka Islamic Bank BSC Bahrain Sign Documentary Credit Insurance Policy to Boost Shariah-Compliant Trade

    Source: APO

    The Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC) (https://ICIEC.IsDB.org), a Shariah-based multilateral insurer and member of the Islamic Development Bank Group, and Al Baraka Islamic Bank BSC Bahrain signed a Documentary Credit Insurance Policy (DCIP). The policy aims to strengthen support for Shariah-compliant trade finance, enabling greater security and confidence in the international trade ecosystem.

    The agreement was signed by Dr. Khalid Khalafalla, Chief Executive Officer of ICIEC, and Dr. Adel Salem, Chief Executive Officer of Al Baraka Islamic Bank BSC Bahrain, in a joint effort to enhance the capacity of Islamic financial institutions to manage trade-related risks more effectively.

    Under this partnership, ICIEC will provide insurance coverage for the confirmation of Letters of Credit (LCs) issued by Al Baraka Islamic Bank in connection with the import and export of eligible Shariah-compliant goods and services. This solution will help mitigate payment risks associated with cross-border trade while promoting sustainable growth in ICIEC’s member states.

    Dr. Khalid Khalafalla, CEO of ICIEC, stated: “This strategic collaboration with Al Baraka Islamic Bank reflects ICIEC’s unwavering commitment to advancing intra-OIC trade and investment. By supporting Shariah-compliant trade finance through our Documentary Credit Insurance Policy, we are facilitating secure trade flows while empowering Islamic banks to broaden their offerings to clients. This partnership demonstrates the power of multilateral cooperation in achieving shared development goals.”

    For his part, Dr. Adel Salem, CEO of Al Baraka Islamic Bank BSC Bahrain, stated: “We are delighted to partner with ICIEC on this pioneering Credit Insurance Policy, which empowers us to extend Shariah‑compliant trade finance to our clients, bolster Bahrain’s role as a regional hub for Islamic banking, and stimulate sustainable economic growth across member states worldwide. This collaboration underscores our unwavering commitment to innovation and robust risk management, giving the businesses we serve greater confidence to expand in global markets.”

    The DCIP serves as a vital tool for Islamic banks, enhancing their ability to expand trade finance operations with reduced exposure to commercial and political risks. The policy also complements ICIEC’s broader mandate to promote economic resilience, financial inclusion, and private sector development in member countries.

    Both institutions reaffirmed their shared dedication to expanding the reach of Islamic finance, strengthening risk mitigation tools, and contributing to inclusive and sustainable economic development.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC).

    Media Contacts:
    ICIEC
    Email: ICIEC-Communication@isdb.org

    Al Baraka Islamic Bank BSC
    Email: marketing@albaraka.bh

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    Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/44LpCak

    About The Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC):
    As a member of ‘AAA’ rated Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), ICIEC commenced operations in 1994 to strengthen economic relations between OIC Member States and promote intra-OIC trade and investments by providing risk mitigation tools and financial solutions. The Corporation is the only Islamic multilateral insurer in the world. It has led from the front in delivering a comprehensive suite of solutions to companies and parties in its 50 Member States. ICIEC, for the 17th consecutive year, maintained an “Aa3” insurance financial strength credit rating from Moody’s, ranking the Corporation among the top of the Credit and Political Risk Insurance (CPRI) Industry. Additionally, S&P has reaffirmed ICIEC “AA-“ long-term Issuer Credit and Financial Strength Rating for the second year with Stable Outlook.  ICIEC’s resilience is underpinned by its sound underwriting, global reinsurance network, and strong risk management policies. Cumulatively, ICIEC has insured more than USD 121 billion in trade and investment. ICIEC activities are directed to several sectors – energy, manufacturing, infrastructure, healthcare, and agriculture.

    Website: https://ICIEC.IsDB.org

    About Al Baraka Islamic Bank BSC:
    Al Baraka Islamic Bank (AIB) is one of leading financial institutions in the Islamic banking sector within Bahrain. Throughout its history of more than four decades (since its establishment in 1984), the Bank has played a prominent role in building the infrastructure of the Islamic finance industry. The Bank also played a significant role in promoting the Islamic finance industry and publicizing its merits.

    AIB offers innovative financial products, including investments, international trading, management of short-term liquidity and consumer financing, all of which are all based on Islamic financing modes. Such financing includes Murabaha, Wakala, Istisna, Musharaka, Mudarabah, Salam, and Ijara Muntahia Bittamleek.

    Website: https://www.AlBaraka.bh

    Media files

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    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Schatz: Congress Controls Purse Strings, Not Trump

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Hawaii Brian Schatz
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i), lead Democrat on the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on State and Foreign Operations, today urged his colleagues to reject President Donald Trump’s efforts to enact a harmful $9 billion cut to foreign aid and public broadcasting. The Republican rescissions bill would devastate public TV and radio stations across the country, making it more difficult for people – especially those in Native communities and rural areas – to get news and critical emergency alerts. The bill would also gut lifesaving foreign aid programs that millions of people around the world rely on.
    “Being part of the Article One branch means something very specific, and it means that we’re the legislature, and we control the purse strings,” said Senator Schatz. “This bill reduces funding for Ukraine. It reduces funding for global health. It continues to reduce funding for public television and public radio. Republicans don’t actually have to do this.”
    The full text of Schatz’s remarks can be found below. Video is available here. 
    Republicans don’t actually have to do this. I understand as well as anybody wanting to go along with your party’s president, especially in the early months. But being part of an independent and co-equal branch has to mean something. Being part of the Article One branch means something very specific, and it means that we’re the legislature and we control the purse strings.
    Nowhere in the Constitution does it say that if the president wants something, you must do it. And what worries me the most about this rescissions package, if it passes it is one thing for the president’s signature accomplishment, signature policy priority to be supported by Republicans in the legislature. I understand that. I understand the inevitable political momentum behind that. But this isn’t that. And we have now gone six months. Without a single instance of Republicans and Democrats coming together and establishing that there are some limitations on this president’s power.
    And if you remember the first Trump term, there were a couple of moments when the legislature actually stood up to the president, overrode a veto of his rejected a rescissions package. They stood up for their prerogatives. And you know what happened next? Nothing. Why? Because that’s actually how the system is supposed to work. We are not a parliamentary system. We are not a monarchy where the president says by tweet, by tweet, if you don’t adopt this exactly how it’s written, you will not receive my political support. Thank you for your attention to this matter. And that set us on a course towards passing this legislation, which I know a dozen, at least a dozen Republicans hate.
    It reduces funding for Jordan. It reduces funding for Ukraine. It reduces funding for global health. It did reduce funding for PEPFAR. It continues to reduce funding for public television and public radio. By the way, public radio is not just National Public Radio. If you were on a reservation. If you were in a very rural part of your state, it’s often not just the only radio station, the only communications infrastructure that exists in a rural area. So it’s the only platform for news. That’s true. It’s also the only emergency communications infrastructure, because still many places across the United States lack internet. And so Mike Rounds got his deal so that his tribes will be taken care of and I’m glad for him. But there are 49 other states where your emergency communications infrastructure is about to be defunded. Nobody likes that. Some people are pissed off about NPR’s coverage or PBS’s coverage. But come on, you defund an agency because you disagree with their editorial choices? Which country is this? Which country is this?
    I want to tell you something a little technical, but I think it gives away the whole game. So I’m the top Democrat on the foreign ops subcommittee. What does that mean? We do funding for U.S. aid in the State Department and a few other things. When we do the appropriations process, we get letters from every other member. They’re private letters, and a lot of people sign them and they say, “could you please give more money to whatever it is, maternal and child health or malaria prevention or, the PEPFAR program, the initiative to prevent HIV/AIDS transmission.” So we get a bunch of letters saying “please plus up this, please, plus up that” bipartisan letters. And we are trying to write a bill that accommodates all these needs. A lot of people who are about to vote to cut all the stuff are on the side writing me a letter saying, “please increase these accounts.” And why does this matter? This matters because nobody’s voting – I shouldn’t say nobody – many, many people are not voting their conscience tonight. And that’s just a fact.
    There’s a there’s a characterization in poker when you know you’re beat and someone puts money in on the river and you call anyway, it’s called a crying call. You give away your money sort of crying. This is a crying call. This is a “I know I’m beat, I vote aye,” and here’s the thing: we don’t actually have to do this.
    President Trump’s attention is famously divided, and if something pops next week, he will be on that thing next week. He did not wake up every morning thinking, I want to defund UNICEF. I want to defund PEPFAR. His attention will be divided, and the moment the legislature stands up for himself, usually what he does is he understands power and he says, “okay, those guys are asserting themselves. They’re a co-equal branch of government, and I’m going to have to move on from this.” Because why do I know this? We literally did the same thing. There was a rescissions package, which nobody remembers. Why? Because we quietly with Dick Shelby and others appropriators, all said “no, we hold the purse strings here. We write the laws that determine appropriations.” We’re not going to do this thing on a bipartisan basis, enact a spending plan, and then come in on a partisan basis and say, you know, that wasn’t actually the spending plan. That was just the spending cap. And the administration is going to come in and do whatever it wants on a partisan basis. And so what happened is they rejected the rescissions package on the motion to discharge, which is happening in about an hour and five minutes. And then you know what happened? Nothing. Nothing politically. Nothing substantively, except that we kept the appropriations process alive. We kept the filibuster alive. We kept bipartisanship alive. And in this instance, it’s not just about this institution. It is literally about people being kept alive.
    For the last five months, because of the United States’ actions, tens of thousands, at least, maybe hundreds of thousands of babies have gotten HIV/AIDS from their moms because we pulled funding. Because Elon Musk had some bug in his ear about USAID. And one weekend he said, we’re going to feed this thing to the woodchipper. And because Democrats too and pundits decided, you know what, foreign aid isn’t so important to voters. I don’t care if it’s important to voters, if it ranks on the number one, number two, or number three. We’re the United States of America and one of the reasons that we have such a strong reputation is that we do things that are right because they’re right, not because our voters are going to reward us immediately, not because we get some geopolitical advantage, but because we’re the damn good guys.
    And right now, we are ratifying a bunch of decisions against our will. We don’t have to do this. Donald Trump will move on to the next thing tomorrow. And if it’s not on this thing which has low salience for the voters, is 18 months from the next election. If it’s not on this, at what point are my Republican colleagues going to stand up for this branch of government?
    I remain ready to work with anybody on anything. I have talked to Chairman Graham about the possibility of literally enacting these rescissions, or at least a portion of them in the state and foreign ops mark, and yet they choose this legislative violence. We don’t have to do this. We don’t have to operate under the assumption that this man is uniquely so powerful. He’s the most powerful president. He owns the legislature in a way that no president has ever owned the legislature. And we all act like we’re just sort of observers, like clicking on the TV and seeing how our fantasy football team is doing this Sunday.
    We have agency tonight to reestablish that. We are the Article One branch of government, and that means something.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New city bus service confirmed

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    A new bus service covering the Crown/Kingsmills area of Inverness as well as Wester Inshes is set to be launched on Monday 4 August.

    The new 100 bus service will be delivered by The Highland Council’s In-house bus team.

    Chair of the Council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee said: “Following recent route changes by Stagecoach, our in-house team have stepped in to create this new service so residents and visitors can still enjoy regular and reliable public transport in and around Inverness.”

    The 100 service will operate Monday to Friday, providing an off-peak connection between the city centre, Crown. Kingsmills, Raigmore Hospital, Inshes Retail Park, the Stevenson Road area, the UHI Campus and Inverness Retail & Business Park, with three journeys each way per day.

    Cllr Gowans added: “I’d like to thank our team for their work to set up this service so quickly in response to the needs of communities. Having the ability to be flexible and to react to customer demands is one of main benefits of investing in council bus services.”

    The timetable for the 100 service will be made available on the Council’s website. 

    16 Jul 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: DPP’s separatist moves undermine Taiwan’s economy, investor confidence – State Council Taiwan Affairs Office

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    BEIJING, July 16 (Xinhua) — State Council Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson Chen Binhua on Wednesday warned that the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) administration’s continued attempts to achieve “Taiwan independence” through military buildup and collusion with external forces will inevitably undermine the island’s economic prospects and foreign investor confidence.

    Chen Binhua made the remarks at a press conference when asked to comment on recent reports that two major Japanese companies have pulled out of a well-known department store in Taiwan.

    The move is seen by the Taiwanese public as reflecting growing concerns about rising tensions in the Taiwan Strait and foreign companies “voting with their feet” due to lower expectations for the Taiwan market.

    Asked about recent reports in leading international publications including Foreign Affairs and The Economist warning of tensions in the Taiwan Strait, Chen Binhua stressed that the international community is increasingly concerned that Taiwanese President Lai Qingde’s radical approach could trigger a crisis.

    “More and more foreign experts, scholars and world-renowned periodicals have expressed concern about the situation in the Taiwan Strait,” the spokesperson said, adding that the root cause of the current complex and serious situation is the DPP authorities’ refusal to recognize the 1992 consensus embodying the one-China principle.

    He called on both sides of the Taiwan Strait to make efforts to return cross-strait relations to the right path of peaceful development. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The victory in the war against Japanese aggression and the return of Taiwan to China deserve the memory of compatriots on both sides of the Taiwan Strait – Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    BEIJING, July 16 (Xinhua) — The victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the reversion of Taiwan to China after Japanese occupation in 1945 deserve to be remembered by compatriots on both sides of the Taiwan Strait, Chen Binhua, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, said on Wednesday.

    Chen Binhua made the statement in response to a reporter’s question regarding the Taiwanese authorities’ denigration of upcoming commemorative events in mainland China.

    2025 marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, as well as the 80th anniversary of the return of Taiwan to China after Japanese occupation.

    The official spokesperson called the recapture of Taiwan an important achievement of the great victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, stressing that it was made possible by the fearless struggle and sacrifices of all the Chinese people, including Taiwan compatriots.

    According to Chen Binhua, a series of commemorative events will be held to mark the anniversaries, including an exhibition of calligraphy works by generals from both sides of the Taiwan Strait from the museum’s collections scheduled for August. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Funding helps B.C. artists inspire, connect, create

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Sae-Hoon Stan Chung, chair, B.C. Arts Council –

    “Artists and arts and culture organizations continued to demonstrate an extraordinary impact on citizens’ lives and to ground arts and culture in meaningful ways in communities throughout British Columbia. The B.C. Arts Council remains committed to supporting arts and culture in the province. Reconciliation, equity, diversity, inclusion and access are foundational to this work as, together, we build a thriving, stable and sustainable arts and culture sector.”

    Jennifer Pighin, Omineca Arts Centre, Prince George –

    “As a volunteer-run entity, we constantly grapple with the challenge of limited time and resources. However, the provision of funds enabling us to hire our inaugural staff member has proven to be a transformative milestone. The impact has been profound, propelling us from obscurity to becoming a household name featured across various media platforms, including radio and television. It’s not just beneficial, it’s absolutely essential, marking a definitive turning point in our journey.”

    Rose Clark, Bella Coola Music Festival, Bella Coola –

    “The Bella Coola Music Festival (BCMF) is honoured to host and highlight the work of First Nations artists who are honing their craft and telling their stories on their own terms. Many young Indigenous performers are writing songs in their ancestral languages, contributing to the conservation of cultural heritage, and inspiring future generations. Programming that the B.C. Arts Council grant supports creates meaningful opportunities for these voices to be celebrated and shared, and continues to be an essential part of the BCMF experience.”

    Marnie Temple, Empire of Dirt Residency, Creston –  

    “These grants are important and life-changing opportunities. Without them, I cannot imagine providing artists with the time and space to develop their work in rural B.C. It is encouraging to imagine more artists getting this chance and developing creative connections.”

    Kihlyahda Christian White, Tluu Xaada Naay Society, G̱aw Tlagée, Haida Gwaii –

    “B.C. Arts Councils’ programs help support our growth, skills and strength for our foundational expansion in planning, marketing, training and product development to promote Haida arts, culture and experiences.”

    Joanna Garfinkel, Playwrights Theatre Centre, Vancouver –

    “Funding from the BCAC’s Arts Impact program allowed Playwrights Theatre to approach creating our new strategic plan meaningfully, and with adequate time and resources to involve community, sectoral and host Nation consultation. There is no way we would have the capacity to undertake this project without BCAC Arts Impact.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Latta, DeGette, Crenshaw and Dingell Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Reauthorize Improved Access to Over-the-Counter Medicines

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bob Latta (R-Bowling Green Ohio)

    Recently, Congressman Bob Latta (OH-5), Congresswoman Diana DeGette (CO-1), Congressman Dan Crenshaw (TX-2) and Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-6) introduced the Over-the-Counter Monograph Drug User Fee Amendments (OMFUA), a bipartisan bill to reauthorize the Over-the-Counter Monograph User Fee Act that has improved access to over-the-counter medicines.   

    “The over-the-counter monograph drug user fee program (OMUFA) allows consumers to manage their own care safely and affordably. Five years ago, as the original sponsor of this legislation, my colleagues and I modernized how the FDA regulates most over-the-counter medicines by enacting OMUFA. These reforms transformed a 40-year-old system, making it more efficient, transparent, and open to innovation. I’m proud to lead the reauthorization of this critical program,” Latta said.  

    “Millions of Americans rely on over-the-counter medications every day, and FDA’s over-the-counter medicines program ensures those products are safe, effective, and accessible. I was proud to play a role in creating OMUFA and to see it through its first five years. Now, as we approach reauthorization, it’s time to build on that success and continue giving FDA the tools it needs to deliver trusted medicines to Amerians’ shelves,” DeGette said.

    “This bipartisan bill empowers the FDA to review over-the-counter medicines quickly and efficiently — without compromising safety. It ensures Americans can trust that the products on their shelves are backed by the latest science, and spares the taxpayer a new obligation,” Crenshaw said.    

    “Nearly nine out of ten Americans regularly use over the counter medications to quickly, easily, and effectively manage a range of conditions. The Over-the-Counter Monograph Safety, Innovation, and Reform Act has been highly successful in improving OTC drug availability and safety. I’m leading this reauthorization with my bipartisan colleagues to ensure consumers continue to have safe access to the OTC products they depend on, and the U.S. remains a global leader in health and innovation,” Dingell said.  

    Today, Congressman Latta joined the Health Subcommittee hearing on legislative proposals to maintain and improve the public health workforce, rural health, and over the counter drugs, to discuss his bill, OMUFA. Watch the Congressman’s remarks here. 

    The OMUFA bill is endorsed by the Consumer Healthcare Products Association:   

    “CHPA applauds Representatives Latta, DeGette, Crenshaw and Dingell for their leadership in introducing this important reauthorization and for their continued support of self-care,” said CHPA President & CEO Scott Melville. “As the industry works to deliver safe, effective, and innovative OTC products to consumers, we look forward to working with Congress on refinements to the bill to ensure the final legislation maximizes the potential of monograph reform and can continue to provide savings and innovation to consumers. That includes inserting provisions into OMUFA to clarify how FDA evaluates the Generally Recognized as Safe and Effective (GRASE) standard, creating a clearer path for early agreement on data needs, and improving the efficiency of making product improvements while maintaining strong safety standards.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bacon Lauds Progress on FY26 Defense Policy Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Don Bacon (2nd District of Nebraska)

    Bacon Lauds Progress on FY26 Defense Policy Bill

    Washington – Late Tuesday evening, Rep. Don Bacon (R-NE-02) Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee’s (HASC) Cyber, Information Technologies, and Innovation Subcommittee (CITI), voted in favor of advancing H.R. 3838, the Streamlining Procurement for Effective Execution and Delivery and National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026. The bill was reported out of committee by a vote of 55 – 2. The annual legislation, which contains multiple amendments and provisions authored by Rep. Bacon, authorizes defense spending and sets the policy and priorities for the Armed Forces. 

    “Once again, the People’s House proves that bipartisan progress is possible where it matters most,” said Chairman Bacon after completing his ninth annual full-committee markup of the NDAA. “When it comes to national security, the American people expect us to work across the aisle to provide for the common defense. It’s been a long couple of months, but I am proud of what we produced and look forward to advancing this important legislation in the House.”     

    Highlights from the committee’s FY 2026 bill include:

    • Sets major reforms to the defense acquisition system to speed development and fielding of modern technologies while reducing bureaucracy 
    • Preserves development of the U.S. Air Force E-7 advanced airborne warning and control system
    • Preserves U.S. force posture in Europe and authorizes additional security assistance to Ukraine 
    • Fully funds modernization of the U.S strategic nuclear deterrent including development of the Sea-Launched Cruise Missile – Nuclear

    In addition, the committee’s bill contains numerous legislative proposals sponsored by Rep. Bacon, including: 

    • Directs the Secretary of Defense to prepare an implementation plan to establish a Joint Task Force Cyber for the Indo-Pacific area of operations
    • Directs the Secretary of the Air Force to provide an acquisition and fielding strategy for the F-47 advanced fighter aircraft program
    • Directs the Secretary of Defense to provide an independent assessment of toxic exposure in the AF ICMB community
    • Directs the Secretary of Defense to provide an implementation plan to reform Department of Defense (DoD) casualty assistance programs 
    • Directs the Secretary of Defense to establish the Civil Reserve Manufacturing Network 
    • Directs significant security upgrades to DoD mobile telecommunications
    • Directs the major defense acquisitions programs to prepare digital manufacturing transition plans for critical components 
    • Directs the Secretary of Defense to establish the Center for Strategic Deterrence and WMD Studies at the National Defense University
    • Directs the Secretary of Defense to improve cancer detection and prevention measures for DoD firefighters 
    • Directs updates on the U.S. Space Force Satellite Control Network

    Watch Rep. Bacon’s remarks here and see full remarks as delivered below:

    “Thank you, Chairman Rogers. I want to begin by thanking all the members of the subcommittee for their dedication and thoughtful work in creating a strong, bipartisan, Cyber, IT and Innovative Subcommittee print. The subcommittee’s package advances departments’ cyber and innovation ecosystems and conducts critical oversight. I also want to thank our great subcommittee staff, led by Sarah Moxley. Every member of the staff are professional experts on both sides of the aisle.

    “The subcommittee’s mission is to ensure that warfighters are armed with the most innovative technologies that improve lethality and increase U.S. capabilities. Modern technology is fast paced, so ensuring the department of Defense is at the leading edge of technology is imperative to deterring adversaries. Warfighters must have the tools to fight across all domains on the battlefield, in cyberspace, now and in the future.

    “I’m looking forward to continuing to optimize these efforts as the committee considers the FY 26 NDAA. The FY 26 CITI subcommittee print prioritizes the continued improvement of testing and evaluation through digital processes, supports the research and development of novel technologies, and improves the department’s cyber practices. This package brings flexibility for research and development across the department to ensure rapid innovation.

    “The print achieves this through the empowering of the undersecretary of defense for research and engineering, and improving the ability to do developmental prototyping, creating a bridge over the Valley of Death. It also directs the use of digital engineering and modern software practices to create a more agile and accurate testing and evaluation process. 

    “Additionally, the subcommittee print directs the department to use modern technology to improve processes and cyber practices, provisions leverage AI to bolster cybersecurity skills, create new lines of efforts for using generative AI, and continue to lay out the framework for the department’s adoption of AI. The subcommittee print supports the continued research and development of hypersonic programs and modernization and expansion of hypersonic testing and evaluation. Finally, the print includes several recommendations from the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology.

    “These provisions give the department tools to optimize the military use of biotechnology, to guarantee that the U.S. remains the world’s leader in biotechnology innovation. Overall, the subcommittee print ensures the U.S. remains status as the most lethal warfighting force in the world. Lastly, I want to thank Ranking Member Khanna for his bipartisanship and dedication to producing the subcommittee print.

    “We believe this package will continue to give the department the flexibility and tools needed to deliver the most modern technology to the hand of the warfighters. And with that, I yield back.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Dina Titus Introduces Bill to Assure Benefits for Atomic Veterans

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Dina Titus (1st District of Nevada)

    Congresswoman Dina Titus (NV-01) today introduced legislation to eliminate bureaucratic barriers atomic veterans face when they apply for benefits they are entitled to after being exposed to toxic radiation. 

    The Congresswoman introduced the Providing Radiation Exposed Servicemembers Undisputed Medical Eligibility (PRESUME) Act to prohibit the VA from requiring evidence of a certain dose of radiation to determine if a veteran is considered radiation-exposed for the purposes of “presumptive benefits.”

    “Like anyone on the battlefield, cold warriors at the Nevada Test Site put themselves in harm’s way in service to our country. We cannot leave any of them behind. The bureaucratic barriers to care can be easily fixed through my legislation,” said Rep. Titus. “Our country’s atomic veterans helped win the peace during the Cold War, and they must be able to access the highest standard of care available.”

    Currently, to receive care for what the VA has categorized as “presumptive diseases” due to radiation exposure, a veteran must provide proof of on-site participation as well as radiation dose estimates from the Defense Threat Reduction Agency. Radiation dose estimates have historically been unreliable, leaving many exposed veterans unable to obtain the compensation they have earned.

    “Our atomic veterans should be treated the same way as civilians exposed to atomic radiation,” Rep. Titus said. “They have been wrongfully subjected to a double standard and have not received the care they deserve for treatment of cancer and pulmonary diseases. The PRESUME Act would fix this.” 

    The PRESUME Act has been endorsed by Disabled American Veterans, The Invisible Enemy, National Association of Atomic Veterans, Military-Veterans Advocacy, Paralyzed Veterans of America, and the Union of Concerned Scientists.

    “For far too long, veterans exposed to radiation have faced an uphill battle for VA health care and benefits. The diseases they develop, which often manifest decades after their military service, after radiation exposure. DAV is proud to support the PRESUME Act, which would remove outdated VA regulations and provide equity with other government programs by removing the radiation dose estimate requirements. We thank Rep. Titus for her leadership in reintroducing this critical legislation to ensure those exposed to radiation while in service get the care and benefits, they have rightfully earned,” said Jim Marszalek, National Service Director for Disabled American Veterans.

    “‘Veterans are a uniting issue for America as they are the protectors of our freedom. For many veterans, ionizing radiation is a significant issue and is the focus of our advocacy at The Invisible Enemy. Rep. Titus’ bill to remove the dosage requirement is very important as dosage is often impossible to prove but the impact of that exposure on veteran’s lives is significant. The Invisible Enemy 100% supports Rep. Titus on her effort to help our brothers and sisters in their quest for the benefits so deserved and earned,” said Dave Crete, Chairman of the Las Vegas-based The Invisible Enemy.

    “The National Association of Atomic Veterans is pleased to support the Presume Act. The legacy of Nuclear tests is riddled with Veterans not having proper Personal Protective Equipment and/or failure of monitoring radiation levels. Few of the Veterans were issued radiation badges and of those that had them, there were high failure rates due to environmental factors. Further, these badges only measure external gamma rays, X-rays, and high-energy beta radiation. They do not measure alpha, neutron, or low energy beta radiation. Additionally, none of the monitoring methods measure internal radiation doses of any form. Requiring a veteran to prove the level of exposure places an unreasonable burden of proof upon them,” said Keith Kiefer, National Commander for the National Association of Atomic Veterans.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Larsen Secures $2 Million for Snohomish County to Improve Everett Rail Yard

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Rick Larsen (2nd Congressional District Washington)

    The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) awarded a $2,000,000 grant to Snohomish County for its Everett Intermodal Yard and Curve Improvements project. The project will improve rail shipping capability, safety, and reliability for freight and intercity passenger service at the Everett Intermodal Yard. These improvements will benefit both BNSF freight trains and Amtrak Cascades service, and improve the county’s solid waste management system. 

    DOT awarded the funding through Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grant program, which enables communities of all sizes to carry out road, rail, transit and other surface transportation projects with significant local or regional impact.  

    Larsen and Snohomish County Leaders Applaud BUILD Grant 

    Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02), the top Democrat on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, requested funding for the project in the Fiscal Year 2026 spending bill.   

    “Thanks to the hard work of Snohomish County Executive Dave Somers and Public Works Director Kelly Snyder, Snohomish County has the funding it needs to increase the capacity of its rail yard and reduce delays,” said Rep. Larsen. “In Northwest Washington state, infrastructure means jobs. I will continue to support federal investments in roads, bridges, highways and transit in our region that relieve congestion, improve safety and spur economic growth in local communities.” 

    Dave Somers and Kelly Snyder celebrated the grant announcement and emphasized the importance of the funding to the community. 

    “This vital rail project will improve safety and reliability for workers, passengers, and freight at the Everett Intermodal Yard while allowing us and our rail partners to continue a sustainable, low-impact operation for residents,” Somers said. “I am grateful for the BUILD award to help move this important work forward.” 

    “Snohomish County Public Works is thankful for Congressman Larsen’s support in obtaining a U.S. DOT BUILD award. These funds will help improve and expand Delta intermodal yard in north Everett to keep up with safety, efficiency and growing demand,” said Snyder. “We value every dollar that sustains the regions infrastructure and keeps services moving along unabated. This BUILD grant is a vital source of funding that will help us continue to efficiently meet the needs of Snohomish County residents and visitors.” 

    Larsen Has Secured $105.9 Million in BUILD Grants for WA-02 Since 2022 

    Larsen has secured eight BUILD grants totaling $105,906,000 for local communities since the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law was signed. In addition to the $2 million grant for Snohomish County, Larsen has helped deliver: 

    • $25 Million for Lynnwood’s Poplar Way Bridge – In August 2022, DOT awarded the City of Lynnwood a $25 million RAISE grant to construct a new six-lane, multimodal bridge over I-5 in Lynnwood, between the intersections of 196th Street SW (State Route 524)/Poplar Way and 33rd Avenue W/Alderwood Mall Boulevard. 

    • $25 Million for Whatcom County’s Lummi Island Ferry – In August 2022, DOT awarded Whatcom County a $25 million RAISE grant to replace the 60-year-old Lummi Island ferry with an electric-battery hybrid ferry and build related infrastructure. 

    • $17.9 Million for Port of Bellingham’s Shipping Terminal Rail Connection Project – In June 2024, DOT awarded the Port of Bellingham a $17,931,000 RAISE grant to renovate a shipping terminal site, returning the site to a fully functioning multimodal terminal with more efficient loading and unloading of railcars on the terminal. 

    • $2 Million for Lynden’s Pepin Creek FASST Design Project – In January 2025, DOT awarded the City of Lynden a $2 million RAISE grant to complete planning for its project to relocate Pepin Creek, which runs in deep roadside ditches that overflow and flood the area during winter storms when large quantities of water flow across the U.S.-Canada border. 

    • $19.5 Million for Skagit Transit’s Maintenance, Operations, and Administration Facility – In January 2025, DOT awarded Skagit Transit a $19.5 million RAISE grant for the agency to continue renovating its Maintenance, Operations, and Administration Facility in Burlington. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Griffith Holds Legislative Hearing to Consider Public Health, Rural Health Care Bills

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA)

    U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA), Chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health, held a legislative hearing entitled “Legislative Proposals to Maintain and Improve the Public Health Workforce, Rural Health, and Over-the-Counter Medicines.” Some of the proposals considered during the hearing reauthorize public health programs, contribute to rural health care access and help rural communities.

    Following the hearing, Chairman Griffith issued the following statement:

    “Congress is determined to reauthorize vital programs that provide rural communities critical access to health care.

    “As the Health Subcommittee moves forward, I will continue to dedicate my Chairmanship to advancing policies that enable access to telehealth services, bolster our health care workforce, help administer health care to rural communities, like those in Southwest Virginia, and improve health care delivery to the nation.”

    Congressman Griffith’s opening remarks in the hearing can be seen here or below.

    Rep. Griffith’s questions to witnesses in the hearing can be seen here.

    BACKGROUND

    This July, Representative Griffith was named Chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health.

    In his first public actions after being named Chairman, Representative Griffith visited multiple rural health care providers in Southwest Virginia.

    H.R. 2493, Improving Care in Rural America Reauthorization Act of 2025, continues existing programs that include direct funding to rural underserved populations.

    H.R. 3419, To amend the Public Health Service Act to reauthorize the telehealth network and telehealth resource centers grant programs, preserves and promotes the use of telehealth and telemedicine in the treatment of patients.  

    Another proposal reauthorizes programs related to health professions education. This bill helps fund the education, training and preparation of prospective health professionals.

    Expiration of these public health programs will occur at the end of Fiscal Year 2025.

    These bills will continue to be examined before potential consideration by the full House.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: H.R. 3339, Equal Opportunity for All Investors Act of 2025

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    H.R. 3339 would require the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to develop an exam and certify people who pass as “accredited investors,” which would allow them to make investments for which they are not currently eligible. Under current law, accredited investors are defined as people or entities with sufficient financial sophistication and resources to sustain the risk of loss, including banks, broker-dealers, and investment companies. Accredited investors may participate in investment opportunities not available to nonaccredited investors, such as purchasing securities that are exempt from registration with the SEC.

    Based on the cost of similar provisions, CBO estimates that implementing H.R. 3339 would cost $1 million in both 2026 and 2027. CBO expects that the SEC would need three employees, at an average annual cost of $330,000 for each employee, to establish the examination and amend the current rules on accredited investors. Because the SEC is authorized to collect fees each year to offset its annual appropriation, CBO expects that the net effect on discretionary spending over the 2025-2030 period would be negligible, assuming appropriation actions consistent with that authority.

    If the SEC increases annual fees to offset the costs of implementing provisions of H.R. 3339, it would increase the costs of an existing private-sector mandate on entities required to pay those fees. CBO estimates that the incremental cost of the mandate would be small and would fall well below the annual threshold established in the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (UMRA) for private-sector mandates ($206 million in 2025, adjusted annually for inflation).

    The bill contains no intergovernmental mandates.

    The CBO staff contacts for this estimate are Aurora Swanson (for federal costs) and Rachel Austin (for mandates). The estimate was reviewed by H. Samuel Papenfuss, Deputy Director of Budget Analysis.

    Phillip L. Swagel

    Director, Congressional Budget Office

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: H.R. 3357, Enhancing Multi-Class Share Disclosures Act

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    H.R. 3357 would direct the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to issue rules requiring securities issuers with multi-class stock structures to disclose to all shareholders information about the shares of all classes of securities owned by and the voting power of particular shareholders specified in the bill. A multi-class stock structure is one in which a company offers two or more classes of securities with different voting rights in an election of directors.

    Using information about the cost of similar rulemakings, CBO estimates that implementing H.R. 3357 would cost $1 million over the 2025-2030 period. CBO expects the commission would need three employees, at an average annual cost of $330,000 for each employee, to issue rules over one year. Because the SEC is authorized to collect fees each year to offset its annual appropriation, CBO expects that the net effect on discretionary spending over the 2025-2030 period would be negligible, assuming appropriation actions consistent with that authority.

    If the SEC increased fees to offset the costs for rulemaking as required by the bill, H.R. 3357 would increase the cost of an existing mandate as defined in the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (UMRA) on private entities required to pay those fees. CBO estimates that the incremental cost of the mandate would be small and would fall well below the annual threshold for private-sector mandates established in UMRA ($206 million in 2025, adjusted annually for inflation).

    The bill would not impose any intergovernmental mandates.

    The CBO staff contacts for this estimate are Aurora Swanson (for federal costs) and Rachel Austin (for mandates). The estimate was reviewed by H. Samuel Papenfuss, Deputy Director of Budget Analysis.

    Phillip L. Swagel

    Director, Congressional Budget Office

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Former Maryland Police Officer Sentenced for Excessive Force Conviction

    Source: US State Government of Utah

    Former Fairmont Heights, Maryland, Police Officer Philip Dupree was sentenced today following his conviction at trial on June 17, 2024. Dupree was sentenced to six years and two months in prison.

    During the weeklong jury trial, the evidence established that Dupree was on duty as a Fairmont Heights Police Officer on Aug. 4, 2019, when he conducted a traffic stop in the District of Columbia. After detaining a man, Officer Dupree pepper sprayed the man while he was handcuffed and seated in Dupree’s police car. The jury found that Dupree’s use of force constituted excessive force by a law enforcement officer.

    The FBI Washington Field Office investigated the case.

    Trial Attorney Sanjay Patel of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Howland for the District of Columbia prosecuted the case.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Former Maryland Police Officer Sentenced for Excessive Force Conviction

    Source: US State Government of Utah

    Former Fairmont Heights, Maryland, Police Officer Philip Dupree was sentenced today following his conviction at trial on June 17, 2024. Dupree was sentenced to six years and two months in prison.

    During the weeklong jury trial, the evidence established that Dupree was on duty as a Fairmont Heights Police Officer on Aug. 4, 2019, when he conducted a traffic stop in the District of Columbia. After detaining a man, Officer Dupree pepper sprayed the man while he was handcuffed and seated in Dupree’s police car. The jury found that Dupree’s use of force constituted excessive force by a law enforcement officer.

    The FBI Washington Field Office investigated the case.

    Trial Attorney Sanjay Patel of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Howland for the District of Columbia prosecuted the case.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Maryland Police Officer Sentenced for Excessive Force Conviction

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    Former Fairmont Heights, Maryland, Police Officer Philip Dupree was sentenced today following his conviction at trial on June 17, 2024. Dupree was sentenced to six years and two months in prison.

    During the weeklong jury trial, the evidence established that Dupree was on duty as a Fairmont Heights Police Officer on Aug. 4, 2019, when he conducted a traffic stop in the District of Columbia. After detaining a man, Officer Dupree pepper sprayed the man while he was handcuffed and seated in Dupree’s police car. The jury found that Dupree’s use of force constituted excessive force by a law enforcement officer.

    The FBI Washington Field Office investigated the case.

    Trial Attorney Sanjay Patel of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Howland for the District of Columbia prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Home Price Growth Moderates in Second Quarter

    Source: Fannie Mae

    WASHINGTON, DC – Single-family home prices increased 4.1 percent from Q2 2024 to Q2 2025, down from the previous quarter’s year-over-year growth pace of 5.0 percent, according to the latest reading of the Fannie Mae (FNMA/OTCQB) Home Price Index (FNM-HPI) . The FNM-HPI is a national, repeat-transaction home price index measuring the average, quarterly price change for all single-family properties in the United States, excluding condos. This continues the general moderation in home price growth observed since the start of 2024. On a quarterly basis, home prices rose 0.3 percent and 2.0 percent in Q2 2025 on a seasonally adjusted and non-seasonally adjusted basis, respectively.

    The FNM-HPI is produced by aggregating county-level data to create both seasonally adjusted and non-seasonally adjusted national indices that are representative of the whole country and designed to serve as indicators of general single-family home price trends. The FNM-HPI is publicly available at the national level as a quarterly series with a start date of Q1 1975 and extending to the most recent quarter, Q2 2025. Fannie Mae publishes the FNM-HPI approximately mid-month during the first month of each new quarter.

    The full FNM-HPI data sets and a description of the methodology are available on Fannie Mae’s Data and Insights page: https://www.fanniemae.com/data-and-insights.

    Fannie Mae’s home price estimates are based on preliminary data available as of the date of index estimation and are subject to change as additional data become available. Opinions, analyses, estimates, forecasts, beliefs, and other views of Fannie Mae’s Economic and Strategic Research (ESR) Group included in these materials should not be construed as indicating Fannie Mae’s business prospects or expected results, are based on a number of assumptions, and are subject to change without notice. How this information affects Fannie Mae will depend on many factors. Although the ESR Group bases its opinions, analyses, estimates, forecasts, beliefs, and other views on information it considers reliable, it does not guarantee that the information provided in these materials is accurate, current or suitable for any particular purpose. Changes in the assumptions or the information underlying these views could produce materially different results. The analyses, opinions, estimates, forecasts, beliefs, and other views published by the ESR Group represent the views of that group as of the date indicated and do not necessarily represent the views of Fannie Mae or its management.

    About the ESR Group
    Fannie Mae’s Economic and Strategic Research Group, led by Chief Economist Mark Palim, studies current data, analyzes historical and emerging trends, and conducts surveys of consumers and mortgage lenders to provide forecasts and analyses on the economy, housing, and mortgage markets.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoyle, Houchin, LaLota Lead Bipartisan Effort to Get Fire Fighters the Parkinson’s Care They Need

    Source: US Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04)

    July 16, 2025

    For Immediate Release: July 16, 2025 

    WASHINGTON, D.C.  – Today, U.S. Representatives Val Hoyle (OR-04), Erin Houchin (IN-09), and Nick LaLota (NY-01) introduced the bipartisan Parkinson’s Protection for Fire Fighters Act of 2025 to provide medical coverage and increased support for federal fire fighters who develop symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. 

    Despite clear evidence linking fire fighting to an increased risk for developing Parkinson’s, the federal government has yet to officially recognize the connection. As a result, fire fighters living with Parkinson’s face needless bureaucratic barriers when seeking thecare they need. This bill would change that by formally recognizing Parkison’s as a job-related illness for fire fighters to access the care they have earned and deserve.

    “Fire fighters are exposed to significantly more toxins than the civilian population. They put their lives on the line to protect and serve our communities. It is our responsibility to ensure that the medical issues that disproportionately arise as a result of their service are covered. Fire fighters shouldn’t have to fight to prove the link between their service and Parkinson’s disorders, given the data. This is the least we can do to those who dedicated their lives to protecting and serving us,” Rep. Hoyle said.

    “Our fire fighters put their lives on the line every day, facing extreme risks most of us will never fully understand. The science is clear—chemical exposure and head trauma from fire fighting significantly increase the risk of Parkinson’s disease. The Parkinson’s Protection for Fire Fighters Act ensures these heroes aren’t left to fight this battle alone. This bill is about honoring their service with the care and support they’ve earned,” Rep Houchin said.

    “The risks fire fighters face don’t end when the fire is out, and the science is clear: repeated exposure to toxic chemicals on the job significantly increases their risk of developing Parkinson’s. That’s why I support federal legislation to establish a presumptive link. Our fire fighters deserve more than praise—they deserve care, support, and the full backing of the country they serve,” said Rep. LaLota.

    “The research is clear: fire fighters face an increased risk of developing Parkinson’s disease due to frequent, repeated exposure to toxins on the job. That’s why the Parkinson’s Protection for Fire Fighters Act is so important. This bipartisan legislation will help ensure fire fighters have access to the care and support needed following a Parkinson’s diagnosis,” said International Association of Fire Fighters General President Edward Kelly. “The IAFF is proud to endorse this bill, and we’re grateful to Reps. Hoyle, Houchin, and LaLota for their leadership on this critical issue.”

    “The sacrifices made by federal fire fighters extend far beyond the immediate risks of responding to fires and other emergencies,” said NFFE National President Randy Erwin. “Many suffer from job-related injuries and illnesses, including Parkinson’s, long after their federal service ends. NFFE is proud to endorse the Parkinson’s Protection for Fire Fighters Act to ensure these brave men and women receive the workers’ compensation benefits they deserve should they be diagnosed with Parkinson’s. Thank you to Representatives Hoyle, Houchin, and LaLota for their leadership on this important issue.”

    “Fire fighters are exposed to numerous neurotoxic chemicals as they do their vital work. The American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA) is proud to endorse Representative Hoyle’s efforts to support fire fighters who develop Parkinson’s disease as they bravely protect our communities,” said Rebecca Gilbert, MD, PhD, Chief Mission Officer, APDA.

    The Parkinson’s Protection for Fire Fighters Act of 2025 is also cosponsored by U.S. Representatives Carbajal (CA-24) and Neguse (CO-02).

    The bill is also supported by 6 organizations including the: International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE), American Parkinson Disease Assocation, Davis Phiney Foundation for Parkinson’s Power Over Parkinson’s, National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, and Power Over Parkinson’s.

    Background

    Parkinsonism (PD) is a term used to describe a group of disorders that impacts movements and motor controls. Studies show that certain consistent chemical exposures and head injuries are linked to increased risk of PD. 

    Fire fighters are routinely exposed to chemicals such as carbon monoxide and hydrogen cyanide through their service, both of which have well documented links to developing PD.

    Fire fighters are also at greater risk of concussions, which has been shown toincreased risk of developing PD.

    The Bill

    The Parkinson’s Protection for Fire Fighters Act of 2025 would officially establish PD as one of the “certain illnesses and diseases deemed to be proximately caused by employment in fire protection activities.”

    Adding PD to the list of diseases linked to fire fighting would make it easier for fire fighters with PD to get medical coverage, care, and benefits without each individual fire fighter having to prove their occupation caused it.

    The bill helps to ensure that current and future generations of federal fire fighters get the protection, support, and care they earned and deserve.

    The full text of the bill can be found here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –