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Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz Votes NO on Final Version of the Extreme Republican “Big, Beautiful Bill,” Citing Deep Medicaid Cuts, Harm to Families, and Ballooning Deficit

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Raul Ruiz (36th District of California)

    Washington, D.C. – Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz (CA-25) today reaffirmed his opposition to the so-called “Big, Beautiful Bill,” voting NO on the final version passed out of the Senate and returning to the House for approval. Congressman Ruiz previously voted NO on the original House version, citing many of the same concerns.

    “I voted no on this big ugly bill because it would devastate our local communities. It would take health care away from 17 million Americans and cause 20% of rural hospitals to close, including potentially four in our district. That means fewer doctors, longer drives in an emergency, and more lives at risk. It guts clean energy investments, putting local jobs in jeopardy and raising energy costs for working families. It also cuts food assistance, taking food from the mouths of millions of hungry children, veterans, and seniors. Despite these drastic cuts, this bill raises the national debt by $5 trillion in order to give billions in tax cuts to billionaires. This is disgraceful. We should not be prioritizing tax breaks for billionaires over the needs of hardworking families.”

    Background:

    Massive Cuts to Medicaid and Hospital Funding

    • The bill slashes $1 Trillion from Medicaid
    • This bill will cut $150 million in Medicaid payments for rural hospitals and an additional $240 billion through provider tax caps, crippling rural hospitals.
    • An estimated 383 rural hospitals will close. In Ruiz’s district, El Centro Regional Medical Center, Pioneers Memorial, Colorado River Medical Center, and Palo Verde hospitals have already warned they are at risk.
    • 17 million Americans will lose health insurance, increasing uncompensated care and raising costs for everyone else.

    Skyrocketing Costs for Families

    • The bill raises utility bills by an average of $400 per year, and up to $678 in California by undermining clean energy efforts.

    Attacks on Food Assistance for Vulnerable Families:
    The final bill includes expanded work requirements for SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), which could result in millions of Americans, including children and seniors, losing access to food assistance.

    Slashes funding for Pell Grants and Cuts Access to Parent Plus Loans 

    • Making college less affordable for low-income and working-class students striving for a better future.

    Exploding the Deficit While Giving Billionaires a Handout

    • Adds $3 to $5 trillion to the national deficit over the next decade.
    • Prioritizes tax breaks for billionaires over basic care for everyday Americans.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Files Amicus Brief in Support of Challenge to Trump Administration’s Attempt to Remove PREA Protections

    Source: US State of California Department of Justice

    Thursday, July 3, 2025

    Contact: (916) 210-6000, agpressoffice@doj.ca.gov

    OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today, as part of a multistate coalition of 13 attorneys general, filed an amicus brief in Jane Doe, et al. v. Pamela Bondi, et al., in support of a challenge to the Trump Administration’s executive order targeting protections under the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) and access to healthcare for transgender individuals in federal prisons. In their brief, the attorneys general urge the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit to affirm the district court’s decision granting the plaintiffs’ motion for a preliminary injunction.  

    “The Trump Administration’s attempt to strip away protections under PREA not only undermines the progress we’ve made to safeguard the rights and wellbeing of individuals in our correctional facilities but also increases the risk of harm for vulnerable individuals,” said Attorney General Bonta. “These protections are crucial to preventing sexual assault and ensuring that we foster safer environments for incarcerated individuals and our staff in these correctional facilities.”

    In 2003, Congress enacted PREA to ensure that all incarcerated individuals, including those who are transgender, are better protected in correctional facilities. Protections implemented under PREA reduce the risk of sexual assault, promote the safety and security of prisons housing transgender incarcerated individuals, improve the safety of those transgender incarcerated individuals, and further the goal of effective prison administration. In January 2025, President Trump issued the Gender Ideology EO which (1) prohibits transgender individuals from being detained based on their gender identity in prisons or detention centers, (2) prohibits the Bureau of Prisons from recognizing transgender identity, and (3) ends federal fund use for gender affirming care in prisons.

    In the amicus brief, the coalition urges the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit to affirm the district court’s preliminary injunction arguing that:

    • PREA protections are essential to the safety and well-being of all incarcerated individuals and protect all incarcerated individuals, especially transgender individuals, from sexual assault.
    • The Bureau of Prisons blanket policy undermines public safety as it prevents discretion in housing determinations making it more difficult to effectuate PREA’s purpose of eliminating sexual assault in prisons.
    • Amici States’ experiences demonstrate that case-by-case housing assessments consistent with PREA are effective at ensuring the safety of all those who are incarcerated, including incarcerated individuals who are transgender. 

    In filing the amicus brief, Attorney General Bonta joins the attorneys generals of Massachusetts, Hawaii, New York, Illinois, Rhode Island, Vermont, Maine, Minnesota, Oregon, Delaware, Maryland, and the District of Columbia.

    A copy of the brief can be found here.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: USCENTCOM Commander Conducts Middle East Trip to Visit U.S. Service Members and Strengthen Regional Partnerships

    Source: United States Central Command (CENTCOM)

    Commander, U.S. Central Command (USCENTCOM) Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla conducted a multi-nation trip through the Middle East and Eastern Mediterranean from June 30 to July 3, to visit the U.S. service members involved in the defense of U.S. forces and interests across the region as well as meet with key regional defense leaders in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, Israel, and Greece.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: TALLAHASSEE MAN SENTENCED FOR CARRYING A GLOCK SWITCH

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

    TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Jimmy Bender, 19, of Tallahassee, Florida was sentenced to 24 months in prison after previously pleading guilty to possessing a machinegun. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

    According to court records, officers with the Tallahassee Police Department (TPD), Violent Crimes Response Team, were patrolling in the southeastern portion of Tallahassee due to complaints of criminal activity in the area.  A TPD officer observed Bender commit a traffic violation and then stopped the vehicle. As the officers removed Bender from the vehicle, they discovered a Glock.40 caliber handgun with extended magazine. The handgun was also equipped with a machinegun conversion device, or “Glock switch,” which unlawfully enabled the firearm to shoot multiple rounds with a single trigger pull.

    U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Thanks to the hard work of our brave state and federal law enforcement partners, our community can rest easy knowing this dangerous individual has been removed from our streets. Criminals considering carrying an illegally converted machinegun should know my office will aggressively prosecute them to the fullest extent of the law.”

    The conviction and sentence were the result of a joint investigation by the TPD Violent Crimes Response Team and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Eric Welch.

    The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: TALLAHASSEE MAN SENTENCED FOR CARRYING A GLOCK SWITCH

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

    TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Jimmy Bender, 19, of Tallahassee, Florida was sentenced to 24 months in prison after previously pleading guilty to possessing a machinegun. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

    According to court records, officers with the Tallahassee Police Department (TPD), Violent Crimes Response Team, were patrolling in the southeastern portion of Tallahassee due to complaints of criminal activity in the area.  A TPD officer observed Bender commit a traffic violation and then stopped the vehicle. As the officers removed Bender from the vehicle, they discovered a Glock.40 caliber handgun with extended magazine. The handgun was also equipped with a machinegun conversion device, or “Glock switch,” which unlawfully enabled the firearm to shoot multiple rounds with a single trigger pull.

    U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Thanks to the hard work of our brave state and federal law enforcement partners, our community can rest easy knowing this dangerous individual has been removed from our streets. Criminals considering carrying an illegally converted machinegun should know my office will aggressively prosecute them to the fullest extent of the law.”

    The conviction and sentence were the result of a joint investigation by the TPD Violent Crimes Response Team and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Eric Welch.

    The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick Releases Statement on Passage of Republicans’ One Big Ugly Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-Florida 20th district))

    WASHINGTON, DC ─ Today, Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL) released the following statement regarding the passage of the Republicans’ One Big Ugly Bill. 
     
    “Today is a sad day for all Americans. At a time when Americans are struggling with rising costs—from healthcare to housing, groceries to childcare—House Republicans have chosen to pass the most heartless bill of the 21st century. 
     
    “This 900-page piece of legislation is an act of pure cruelty, written without mercy for the families who will suffer under its weight. It strips health insurance from over 90,000 hardworking Americans in my district and cuts off life-saving food assistance for over 400,000 Floridians, including children, seniors, veterans, and working families. 
     
    “In South Florida, this bill would shut down hospitals and doctors’ offices—including children’s hospitals—and slash access to long-term care for our most vulnerable seniors. It guts clean energy investments, threatening 700,000 jobs and accelerating the climate crisis. Florida families will now pay $610 more, on average, each year because of this scam.  
     
    “I will continue to fight for my constituents throughout South Florida in Congress, the community, and the courthouse. While today’s vote is a setback, the fight for a brighter future must continue.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Letlow Statement on Passage of Trump Agenda

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Julia Letlow (LA-05)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Julia Letlow released the following statement on congressional passage of President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill.

    “With passage of President Trump’s pro-family agenda, we have provided tax relief for the middle class and saved every American from a tax increase. Our working families and seniors will see new relief through a bigger child tax credit, eliminating taxes on tips, and a tax cut for retirees on Social Security. Our farmers will have much-needed certainty with the reauthorization of key Farm Bill policies, updated reference prices for commodities, and lower taxes. Now that we have extended the Trump Tax Cuts and supported Louisiana’s families and our economy, I will continue to advocate for my district as the Big Beautiful Bill is implemented.”

    Highlights of the One Big Beautiful Bill:

    • Permanently extends the 2017 Trump Tax Cuts, protecting American families from an average $1,700 tax hike.
    • No taxes on tips up to $25,000 annually.
    • No taxes on overtime pay up to $12,500 annually.
    • Permanently extends the doubled standard deduction for middle class families and provides an additional $1,500 deduction.
    • Permanently extends the doubled child tax credit and provides an additional $400 for a family of four.
    • Provides tax relief for retirees on Social Security through an added $6,000 tax deduction for low and middle-income seniors.
    • Strengthens tax incentives for paid leave and child care under the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit and Flexible Spending Arrangements.
    • Permanently extends the 20% small business deduction for family-owned farms and other small businesses.
    • Updates reference prices for farm commodities.
    • Provides new enforcement resources to support the Trump Administration’s border security efforts.

                                                                          ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Valadao Releases Statement After House Budget Reconciliation Vote

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

    WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) released the following statement on the House budget reconciliation vote.

    “It was not an easy decision for me, but I voted yes on the budget reconciliation bill,” said Congressman Valadao. “Since January when the reconciliation process began, I’ve been a vocal advocate for protecting and preserving Medicaid for the most vulnerable in my district. I know how important the program is for my constituents. Many policy changes were suggested over the past six months that would have devastated healthcare in my district, including changes to the federal match rate for the California and per capita caps on the expansion population, and after months of meetings, I was able to prevent these provisions from being included. However, the Senate version of the budget reconciliation bill ultimately made more changes to Medicaid than the House-passed version, and I had several concerns.”
     
    Congressman Valadao continues, “Since they were announced, I made my concerns about the provider tax and state directed payments provisions clear to my colleagues in the House and Senate and the administration. After numerous conversations, an additional $25 billion was added to the newly established Rural Health Transformation Program—which will help to support rural and other at-risk hospitals in my district—bringing the total to $50 billion. I’ve been assured by the administration that it will be structured in a way that benefits our providers and keeps our hospitals and communities running. To be clear, I still have concerns with the implementation of the provider tax and state directed payment provisions of H.R. 1, but I’ve worked and will continue to engage with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to identify specific risks to Valley hospitals and mitigate them.” 
     
    “Ultimately, I voted for this bill because it does preserve the Medicaid program for its intended recipients—children, pregnant women, the disabled, and elderly. The bill also includes dozens of other policy provisions that directly benefit CA-22, including blocking the largest tax hike on working families in American history, eliminating taxes on tips and overtime, expanding the Child Tax Credit, enhancing deductions for seniors, and keeping provisions in place that double the standard deduction for over 90% of taxpayers in my district. These are real wins that will put more money back in the pockets of hardworking families throughout the Valley.”
     
    “In addition to critical tax provisions, I was able to secure $1 billion in western water storage and conveyance funding to support critical water infrastructure throughout the district. The bill also authorizes key Farm Bill investments by increasing funding for specialty crop research, expanding crop insurance coverage, providing funding to prevent pollution of drinking water in rural communities, and extending funding for the Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP). After weeks of meetings, I was able to successfully secure improvements to the IRA tax credit language to support the Central Valley’s clean energy sector. This version of the bill will provide companies with a long transition period to construct renewable facilities, protecting investment in our region.”
     
    “No piece of legislation is perfect, but this bill ultimately reflects the priorities of CA-22—lower taxes, stronger farms, better infrastructure, and a commitment to protecting access to healthcare for Valley residents. I came to Congress to be a voice for our community, and I’ll keep fighting every day to make sure every provision is implemented responsibly to serve the needs of our district. While there’s still more work to do, this bill is a meaningful step forward.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: The One, Big, Beautiful Bill delivers on President Trump’s promises to the American people. It secures massive tax cuts for American families and businesses, complete border security, a supercharged economy, and accountability in taxpayer-funded programs,

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Dale Strong (Alabama)

    WASHINGTON – Today, Representative Dale W. Strong (AL-05) issued the following statement after final passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.

    “The One, Big, Beautiful Bill delivers on President Trump’s promises to the American people. It secures massive tax cuts for American families and businesses, complete border security, a supercharged economy, and accountability in taxpayer-funded programs, while reducing out-of-control government spending,” said Representative Dale Strong.  

    “From our space, defense, and manufacturing sectors to our working families, farmers, and small business owners — all of North Alabama will benefit from President Trump’s Big Beautiful Bill,” continued Strong.  

    ALABAMA WINS

    Marshall Space Flight Center

    • $4.1 billion for two Space Launch System rockets for the Artemis IV and V missions through Fiscal Year 2029
    • $20 million for Orion and integration of Orion with SLS
    • $100 million for construction and infrastructure projects at Marshall Space Flight Center

    Rural Healthcare

    • Locks in Alabama’s 6% hospital provider tax rate  
    • $50 billion national fund to support rural health through 2030, with $500 million in funding for Alabama in formula dollars alone  

    Farmers and Agriculture

    • Delivers much-needed enhancements in the farm safety net – including higher reference prices that reflect the current agricultural economy
    • Expands access to more affordable crop insurance while making it more responsive to risk

    National Defense  

    • $25 billion for the Golden Dome which Redstone Arsenal will play a significant role in supporting
    • $150 billion for defense spending through 2034, including $19 billion to restock America’s arsenal  

    Tax Cuts for Families and Small Businesses

    • Prevents a 22% tax hike for the average worker
    • Take-home pay for a family of 4 increases by $7,600-$10,900 per year  
    • No tax on tips, overtime pay, and made in America car loan interest
    • Additional tax relief for seniors

    AMERICA FIRST WINS
     

    Border Security Investments

    • 701 miles of primary wall and construction, and 900 miles of river barriers
    • Increases funding to ICE for transportation and mass deportation operations  
    • 3,000 new Border Patrol agents, 5,000 new Office of Field Operations customs officers

    Restores Fiscal Sanity

    • Cuts waste, fraud abuse of programs to preserve them for people who truly need them
    • Implements work requirements for able-bodied Americans without young dependents to receive SNAP and Medicaid  
    • Ends Medicaid benefits for 1.4 million illegal immigrants
    • Repeals Biden-era Green New Deal agenda  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Morgan McGarvey Slams Passage of Republican Budget: “Slap in the Face to Kentucky and All of Rural America”

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Morgan McGarvey (Kentucky-03)

    July 03, 2025

    Today, Congressman Morgan McGarvey, a member of the House Budget Committee, condemned passage of the Republican budget. Congressman McGarvey voted against the budget after debating the bill at 4:00am on the House floor. Click here to download video of his debate remarks.

    “This Republican budget is a slap in the face to Kentucky and all of rural America. It will kick millions of Americans off their health insurance, take food away from Kentucky families, kids, and seniors, and add trillions to the national debt. All so that Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos pay even less in taxes. It is cruel and indefensible.

    “I don’t want to hear any Republican who voted for this say they care about rural America or our national debt ever again.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Young Kim Secures Historic Tax Cuts for Working Families

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Young Kim (CA-39)

    Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Young Kim (CA-40) voted in favor of the Senate Amendment to H.R. 1, which secures historic tax cuts for working families in California’s 40th District and across the nation.

    Rep. Kim stood up to the White House and House leadership to secure an increase of the cap on state and local tax (SALT) deductions to $40,000 for individuals and families making less than $500,000 a year, allowing working Californians and Americans to keep more of their hard-earned money. She also fought to remove the cap on SALT deductions for small businesses, preventing a 2% tax increase. 

    In addition to increasing the SALT cap, the bill makes life more affordable for working Americans, middle-class families, and small businesses by:

    • Extending middle-class tax cuts signed into law through the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act in 2017 to avoid a 17% tax hike for the average CA-40 family;
    • Permanently increasing the Child Tax Credit to $2,200 per child;
    • Exempting individuals from a tax on qualified tips for up to $25,000 for the next four years; 
    • Providing relief to seniors by increasing the Social Security tax deduction to $6,000 per individual;
    • Creating a $12,500 overtime pay deduction; and,
    • Supporting financial literacy by creating a pilot program to give newborns a $1,000 tax-advantaged investment account.

    “For too long, middle-class Americans, working families, and small businesses I represent have been hurting from high taxes, rising prices, and skyrocketing living costs made worse by out-of-touch policies from Sacramento and Washington,” said Rep. Young Kim. “This bill lowers taxes and provides relief to put money back in the pockets of everyday Americans. I will keep fighting to make life affordable for California’s 40th District and ensure our communities are great places to live, raise families, and start businesses.”

    “This bill takes important steps to ensure federal dollars are used as effectively as possible and to strengthen Medicaid and SNAP for our most vulnerable citizens who truly need it. I will keep working to get our country back on the right track and protect the American dream for future generations,” she continued.

    “Over the last seven years, the 20% Small Business Tax Deduction has helped America’s small businesses grow and hire,” said NFIB California State Director John Kabateck. “Rep. Young Kim understands the importance of the Small Business Deduction and has been a leading voice in Congress to make it permanent.”

    According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, nearly 25,000 small and pass-through businesses across Rep. Kim’s district will see an increase of approximately $21,906,300 in their qualified business income deduction through the bill’s passage.

    The bill also invests in America’s future by:

    • Modernizing our air traffic control system to ensure safe and efficient air travel;
    • Boosting our shipbuilding capabilities, investing in our military, and improving quality of life for troops;
    • Bolstering border security funding to increase border technologies and support our border patrol and CBP officers; and,
    • Supporting educational opportunities by protecting access to the Pell Grant program.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Coast Guard District 13 renamed to Northwest District

    Source: United States Coast Guard

    U.S. Coast Guard sent this bulletin at 07/03/2025 04:30 PM EDT

    News Release  

    U.S. Coast Guard 13th District PA Detachment Astoria
    Contact: Coast Guard PA Detachment Astoria
    Office: (503) 861-6380
    After Hours: (206) 220-7237
    PA Detachment Astoria online newsroom

     

    07/03/2025 04:09 PM EDT

    SEATTLE — The U.S. Coast Guard announced the renaming of its operational districts from numerical to

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Coast Guard District 1 renamed to Northeast District

    Source: United States Coast Guard

    U.S. Coast Guard sent this bulletin at 07/03/2025 04:30 PM EDT

    News Release  

    U.S. Coast Guard 1st District Northeast
    Contact: 1st District Public Affairs
    D1PublicAffairs@uscg.mil
    1st District online newsroom

     

    07/03/2025 04:04 PM EDT

    The U.S. Coast Guard today announced the renaming of its operational districts from numerical to geographic designations, a key initiative under Force Design 2028 (FD2028). Within this Service-wide renaming initiative, Coast Guard District 1 will now be known as USCG Northeast District.  

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: USS Gabrielle Giffords arrives in Seattle

    Source: United States Navy Pacific Fleet 1

    SEATTLE – The Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Gabrielle Giffords (LCS 10) departed Naval Base San Diego June 23 and arrived at its new homeport of Seattle June 28, following an 18-month rotational deployment to the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • There is a lot of excitement among people, says Indian envoy ahead of PM Modi’s Trinidad and Tobago visit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Trinidad and Tobago has generated “intense desire” for greater engagement and collaboration between the two countries, India’s High Commissioner to Trinidad and Tobago, Pradeep Singh Rajpurohit, said on Thursday.

    “There is a lot of enthusiasm and excitement among the people. Everyone is looking forward to this visit,” Rajpurohit told ANI. “There is already an intense desire here for broader cooperation across sectors. Both the people and the government are keen to build a longstanding, broad-based partnership with India.”

    Rajpurohit underlined the historical ties between the two countries, pointing out that nearly half of Trinidad and Tobago’s population is of Indian origin. “They have been here for the last 180 years. Many are now fifth- or sixth-generation descendants,” he said, adding that the diaspora has played a key role in preserving India’s heritage abroad.

    “There is great excitement among the diaspora. They closely follow developments in India and feel a deep emotional connection,” he said.

    The High Commissioner said discussions during the visit are expected to build on the groundwork laid during Modi’s visit to Guyana last year for the Second India-CARICOM Summit. “Many of the areas discussed then — agriculture, IT, health and pharmaceuticals, renewable energy — are likely to figure in talks again. We expect tangible outcomes,” he said.

    Rajpurohit noted that Trinidad and Tobago’s new government has several ministers of Indian origin. “There is great enthusiasm among them to bring the benefits of India’s growth journey here,” he said. He added that the country was the first in the Caribbean to adopt India’s flagship UPI platform and is working towards its implementation.

    (ANI)

  • There is a lot of excitement among people, says Indian envoy ahead of PM Modi’s Trinidad and Tobago visit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Trinidad and Tobago has generated “intense desire” for greater engagement and collaboration between the two countries, India’s High Commissioner to Trinidad and Tobago, Pradeep Singh Rajpurohit, said on Thursday.

    “There is a lot of enthusiasm and excitement among the people. Everyone is looking forward to this visit,” Rajpurohit told ANI. “There is already an intense desire here for broader cooperation across sectors. Both the people and the government are keen to build a longstanding, broad-based partnership with India.”

    Rajpurohit underlined the historical ties between the two countries, pointing out that nearly half of Trinidad and Tobago’s population is of Indian origin. “They have been here for the last 180 years. Many are now fifth- or sixth-generation descendants,” he said, adding that the diaspora has played a key role in preserving India’s heritage abroad.

    “There is great excitement among the diaspora. They closely follow developments in India and feel a deep emotional connection,” he said.

    The High Commissioner said discussions during the visit are expected to build on the groundwork laid during Modi’s visit to Guyana last year for the Second India-CARICOM Summit. “Many of the areas discussed then — agriculture, IT, health and pharmaceuticals, renewable energy — are likely to figure in talks again. We expect tangible outcomes,” he said.

    Rajpurohit noted that Trinidad and Tobago’s new government has several ministers of Indian origin. “There is great enthusiasm among them to bring the benefits of India’s growth journey here,” he said. He added that the country was the first in the Caribbean to adopt India’s flagship UPI platform and is working towards its implementation.

    (ANI)

  • ‘Reservoir Dogs’ and ‘Kill Bill’ actor Michael Madsen dies at 67

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Michael Madsen, an actor who appeared in dozens of films including “Reservoir Dogs” and “Thelma & Louise,” has died at age 67, his representatives said on Thursday.

    Madsen died of cardiac arrest at his home in Malibu, California, his manager, Ron Smith, said.

    Born in Chicago, Madsen began acting in the early 1980s in projects that included the TV show “St. Elsewhere” and the movie “The Natural” on his way to racking up more than 300 on-screen credits.

    He played Mr. Blonde in 1992 film “Reservoir Dogs” and appeared in several other movies from director Quentin Tarantino including “Kill Bill,” “The Hateful Eight” and “Once Upon a Time … in Hollywood.”

    “In the last two years Michael Madsen has been doing some incredible work with independent film,” said a statement from Smith along with fellow manager Susan Ferris and publicist Liz Rodriguez.

    He also was preparing to release a book called “Tears For My Father: Outlaw Thoughts and Poems,” which is currently being edited, they said.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Bahrain Sees Robust Pipeline of Financial Institutions: 16 New Financial Institutions Licensed, 52 in Progress Surge of new financial institutions Reinforces Bahrain’s Regional Financial Hub Status

    Source: Central Bank of Bahrain

    Bahrain Sees Robust Pipeline of Financial Institutions: 16 New Financial Institutions Licensed, 52 in Progress Surge of new financial institutions Reinforces Bahrain’s Regional Financial Hub Status

    Published on 3 July 2025

    Manama, Bahrain – 3 July 2025: The Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB) has reported a significant increase in financial institution licensing, with 16 new financial firms approved and 52 additional applications underway from early 2024 through mid-2025.

    This surge highlights Bahrain’s growing appeal as a destination for digital-first financial services, with nearly 75% of the 68 applications coming from international applicants. The influx is expected to create over 850 jobs initially, with more opportunities anticipated as newly licensed firms scale their operations.

    The license applications span a diverse range of categories, including wholesale banks, payments, investment services, insurance, and crypto-asset services. This diverse portfolio reasserts Bahrain as a hub for financial innovation and solidifies its reputation as a competitive launchpad for regional and international firms.

    Notably, 16 applicants have been licensed during this period, including two wholesale banks, with additional bank license applications currently in the pipeline. The CBB continues to work closely with the remaining applicants to support them in meeting the licensing requirements.

    Commenting on this, H.E. Khalid Humaidan, Governor of the Central Bank of Bahrain said, “This increase in licensing applications reflects the CBB’s dual mandate of ensuring stability while fostering growth, and underscores the strength of our regulatory framework and the Kingdom’s unique ability to attract innovation without compromising financial stability. This achievement is the result of close collaboration with our partners across government and industry, and reaffirms Bahrain’s role as a gateway for regional and global growth in financial services.”

    Central to this success is the CBB’s unified regulatory model, which provides licensees with a single point of contact across all financial sub-sectors. This model eliminates conflicting requirements from multiple authorities, streamlines compliance, and offers consistent oversight.

    The announcement was made during the FS Horizons: Doubling Down on Digital event, hosted in partnership with the Bahrain Economic Development Board, where industry leaders gathered to highlight Bahrain’s advancements in digital banking, payments infrastructure, and talent development.

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    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Scholten Statement on House Passage of Republicans’ ‘Big Ugly Bill’

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Hillary Scholten – Michigan

    After Republicans finally broke a historically long stalemate on the House Floor, they passed their Big Ugly Bill that will rip health care away from millions of Americans and raise costs on working families. On behalf of West Michiganders, Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (MI-03) voted no.

    “I just voted no on H.R. 1 for the good people of West Michigan—for our health care, for our children, for our farmers, for our seniors, for our veterans, and for each and every one of you. You need no further evidence of how disastrous this bill will be than the narrow margin by which it passed and the hours upon hours that it took House Republicans to be convinced that this bill was good for their constituents,” said Rep. Scholten.

    “Our work is not over. As I told my neighbors at my town hall last night, I will fight the provisions of this bill tooth and nail in the days ahead. There is nothing more important to me than ensuring our community is set up for success by the federal government – from access to quality health care, to affordable housing, to a fair tax system. This bill accomplishes none of those things. Today is a disappointing day for our nation, but we will continue to work towards the future that West Michigan deserves,” concluded Rep. Scholten.

    This betrayal of a bill:

    • Cuts roughly $1.3 trillion from health care and food assistance for families and gives roughly $1.3 trillion in tax breaks to people making over $500,000—a historic wealth transfer from middle-class Americans to the wealthiest few.
    • It makes the largest cut to health care in American history and will cause approximately 425,000 Michiganders to lose their health care.
    • It jeopardizes SNAP for the 34,000 MI-03 residents who participate in the program.
    • Increases household energy costs by an average of $400 and will lead to millions of jobs lost, $197 billion in lost wages, and $290 billion in economic investment that will be ceded to countries like China.
    • Will add $4 trillion to the national debt, including $700 billion in interest.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Scholten Statement on House Passage of Republicans’ ‘Big Ugly Bill’

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Hillary Scholten – Michigan

    After Republicans finally broke a historically long stalemate on the House Floor, they passed their Big Ugly Bill that will rip health care away from millions of Americans and raise costs on working families. On behalf of West Michiganders, Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (MI-03) voted no.

    “I just voted no on H.R. 1 for the good people of West Michigan—for our health care, for our children, for our farmers, for our seniors, for our veterans, and for each and every one of you. You need no further evidence of how disastrous this bill will be than the narrow margin by which it passed and the hours upon hours that it took House Republicans to be convinced that this bill was good for their constituents,” said Rep. Scholten.

    “Our work is not over. As I told my neighbors at my town hall last night, I will fight the provisions of this bill tooth and nail in the days ahead. There is nothing more important to me than ensuring our community is set up for success by the federal government – from access to quality health care, to affordable housing, to a fair tax system. This bill accomplishes none of those things. Today is a disappointing day for our nation, but we will continue to work towards the future that West Michigan deserves,” concluded Rep. Scholten.

    This betrayal of a bill:

    • Cuts roughly $1.3 trillion from health care and food assistance for families and gives roughly $1.3 trillion in tax breaks to people making over $500,000—a historic wealth transfer from middle-class Americans to the wealthiest few.
    • It makes the largest cut to health care in American history and will cause approximately 425,000 Michiganders to lose their health care.
    • It jeopardizes SNAP for the 34,000 MI-03 residents who participate in the program.
    • Increases household energy costs by an average of $400 and will lead to millions of jobs lost, $197 billion in lost wages, and $290 billion in economic investment that will be ceded to countries like China.
    • Will add $4 trillion to the national debt, including $700 billion in interest.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Van Orden Votes for Tax Breaks for Families, Small Business Growth, SNAP & Medicaid Protection

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Derrick Van Orden (Wisconsin 3rd)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Derrick Van Orden (WI-03) released the following statement after voting to pass H.R.1 – the One, Big, Beautiful Bill:

    “This bill is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Americans – our seniors, veterans, families, farmers, manufacturers, and most vulnerable populations. 

    “My Democrat colleagues have been fearmongering and pushing blatant lies from day one, and that ends now. When this beautiful bill reaches President Trump’s desk, Americans will see their taxes go down, wages go up, and integrity and stability restored in critical programs like SNAP and Medicaid. 

    “This is what delivering real results for the people I represent looks like and what 77 million Americans and 1.7 Wisconsinites voted for.”

    The One, Big, Beautiful Bill contains a variety of wins for the American people, including:

    • Preventing the Death Tax from hitting over two million family-owned farms so they can be passed down to the next generation
    • Making the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act permanent, preventing a 25% tax hike on Wisconsin families
    • Making the Small Business Deduction permanent, and increasing it to 23%
    • Eliminating taxes on overtime pay and tipped wages
    • Providing billions of dollars in tax relief for low- and middle-income seniors
    • Increasing funding for border security measures

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Van Orden Votes for Tax Breaks for Families, Small Business Growth, SNAP & Medicaid Protection

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Derrick Van Orden (Wisconsin 3rd)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Derrick Van Orden (WI-03) released the following statement after voting to pass H.R.1 – the One, Big, Beautiful Bill:

    “This bill is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Americans – our seniors, veterans, families, farmers, manufacturers, and most vulnerable populations. 

    “My Democrat colleagues have been fearmongering and pushing blatant lies from day one, and that ends now. When this beautiful bill reaches President Trump’s desk, Americans will see their taxes go down, wages go up, and integrity and stability restored in critical programs like SNAP and Medicaid. 

    “This is what delivering real results for the people I represent looks like and what 77 million Americans and 1.7 Wisconsinites voted for.”

    The One, Big, Beautiful Bill contains a variety of wins for the American people, including:

    • Preventing the Death Tax from hitting over two million family-owned farms so they can be passed down to the next generation
    • Making the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act permanent, preventing a 25% tax hike on Wisconsin families
    • Making the Small Business Deduction permanent, and increasing it to 23%
    • Eliminating taxes on overtime pay and tipped wages
    • Providing billions of dollars in tax relief for low- and middle-income seniors
    • Increasing funding for border security measures

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Andrea Salinas Statement on House Passage of Republican Tax Scam

    Source: US Representative Andrea Salinas (OR-06)

    Today, U.S. Congresswoman Andrea Salinas (OR-06) released the following statement following the House Passage of Republicans’ Tax Scam

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congresswoman Andrea Salinas (OR-06) released the following statement following the House Passage of Republicans’ Tax Scam:

    “I voted no on this big, ugly betrayal because it increases costs for working families and hurts seniors, veterans, and children in Oregon and across the country. At a time when Americans are already struggling to make ends meet, this bill will increase costs, strip away health care, take food off the table of working families and increase energy costs for all Americans—all to give tax breaks to large corporations and billionaires. I was proud to stand up for hardworking Oregonians and vote against this bill.

    “For Oregonians, the damage is immediate and severe. The bill slashes hundreds of billions of dollars from Medicaid, known in our state as the Oregon Health Plan. These cuts could shutter rural hospitals, nursing homes, and health centers, leaving all Oregon families with higher health care costs and rural patients with little to no access to care.

    “This package also threatens nutrition assistance for the almost 800,000 people in our state who count on SNAP to put food on the table. The cuts would make this the single largest rollback of food aid in American history and would hurt Oregonians who rely on SNAP as well as local farmers and grocers. And the cuts would extend beyond SNAP to threaten food assistance programs like Meals on Wheels. This is cruel, plain, and simple.

    “Not only does this bill increase costs for families, it’s also a fiscal disaster. It adds $5 trillion to our national debt, further jeopardizing our bond rating and our children’s future. For a party that claims to care about cutting the debt, it’s clear Republicans care more about kicking working families when they’re down.

    “This bill is a betrayal of the values we hold in Oregon. I will never support legislation that asks our working families to sacrifice, for the sole purpose of enriching the wealthiest Americans. This bill isn’t about fiscal responsibility – it’s a tax giveaway to the ultra-wealthy, paid for by gutting healthcare and SNAP programs that our communities rely on to survive and thrive.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Andrea Salinas Statement on House Passage of Republican Tax Scam

    Source: US Representative Andrea Salinas (OR-06)

    Today, U.S. Congresswoman Andrea Salinas (OR-06) released the following statement following the House Passage of Republicans’ Tax Scam

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congresswoman Andrea Salinas (OR-06) released the following statement following the House Passage of Republicans’ Tax Scam:

    “I voted no on this big, ugly betrayal because it increases costs for working families and hurts seniors, veterans, and children in Oregon and across the country. At a time when Americans are already struggling to make ends meet, this bill will increase costs, strip away health care, take food off the table of working families and increase energy costs for all Americans—all to give tax breaks to large corporations and billionaires. I was proud to stand up for hardworking Oregonians and vote against this bill.

    “For Oregonians, the damage is immediate and severe. The bill slashes hundreds of billions of dollars from Medicaid, known in our state as the Oregon Health Plan. These cuts could shutter rural hospitals, nursing homes, and health centers, leaving all Oregon families with higher health care costs and rural patients with little to no access to care.

    “This package also threatens nutrition assistance for the almost 800,000 people in our state who count on SNAP to put food on the table. The cuts would make this the single largest rollback of food aid in American history and would hurt Oregonians who rely on SNAP as well as local farmers and grocers. And the cuts would extend beyond SNAP to threaten food assistance programs like Meals on Wheels. This is cruel, plain, and simple.

    “Not only does this bill increase costs for families, it’s also a fiscal disaster. It adds $5 trillion to our national debt, further jeopardizing our bond rating and our children’s future. For a party that claims to care about cutting the debt, it’s clear Republicans care more about kicking working families when they’re down.

    “This bill is a betrayal of the values we hold in Oregon. I will never support legislation that asks our working families to sacrifice, for the sole purpose of enriching the wealthiest Americans. This bill isn’t about fiscal responsibility – it’s a tax giveaway to the ultra-wealthy, paid for by gutting healthcare and SNAP programs that our communities rely on to survive and thrive.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Strickland Statement on Greatest Scam in History

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland released the following statement after voting against the Republican-led bill that resulted in the greatest, most cruel, scam in history:

    “President Trump and House Republicans continue to lie to the American people. They promised to lower costs on ‘day one’. Instead, they have championed the greatest scam in American history.

    Trump and House Republicans have stripped healthcare from 17 million Americans. They will have closed one in four nursing homes, shut down over 300 rural hospitals, and ripped food from the mouths of five million SNAP recipients – including children.

    It is clear now, more than ever before – that Trump and these spineless House Republicans do not care for the American people. They only care about themselves.”

    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.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Strickland Statement on Greatest Scam in History

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland released the following statement after voting against the Republican-led bill that resulted in the greatest, most cruel, scam in history:

    “President Trump and House Republicans continue to lie to the American people. They promised to lower costs on ‘day one’. Instead, they have championed the greatest scam in American history.

    Trump and House Republicans have stripped healthcare from 17 million Americans. They will have closed one in four nursing homes, shut down over 300 rural hospitals, and ripped food from the mouths of five million SNAP recipients – including children.

    It is clear now, more than ever before – that Trump and these spineless House Republicans do not care for the American people. They only care about themselves.”

    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.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Harshbarger’s Statement on House Passage of President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Diana Harshbarger (R-TN)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (TN-01) released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed President Donald J. Trump’s comprehensive One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBBA):

    “Today, the House took a historic step toward restoring trust in government by passing meaningful reforms that put the American people first. The One Big Beautiful Bill is about ensuring taxpayer dollars are used wisely, those who genuinely need help receive it, and our communities are safer, stronger, and more secure. This bill enhances Medicaid for the truly vulnerable, strengthens our border, cuts wasteful spending, and invests in the future of American families. It reflects the values of accountability, compassion, and commonsense that folks in East Tennessee and across the country expect from their government. That is why I voted yes for the One Big Beautiful Bill.” – Congresswoman Harshbarger

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tonko: Republicans Have Abdicated Their Duty & Betrayed the American People

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Paul Tonko (Capital Region New York)

    WASHINGTON, DC — Congressman Paul D. Tonko released the following statement on the House passage of President Trump’s budget, the so-called “Big, Beautiful Bill” that exacts the largest cut to health care and food assistance in American history, all to bring massive tax breaks to the wealthiest 0.1 percent.

    “This bill will go down as one of the most egregious betrayals of the American public in history. At a time when we should be celebrating the birth of our nation and a celebration of “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness,” the President and rubber-stamp Republicans have condemned millions to a harder, less free, less joyous life.

    “Republicans spent these past few weeks hemming and hawing about this legislation: from the devastating cuts to Medicaid and SNAP, to the eradication of countless manufacturing and clean energy jobs, to the massive increase in our debt. But after that whining, they went ahead and voted to pass all those disastrous provisions anyway.

    “Republicans had one job: to vote no on a bill that their constituents don’t like, that hospitals don’t like, that businesses don’t like, that unions don’t like, that they themselves don’t like. Instead, they voted yes all to appease one man.

    “It’s clear that Republicans would rather lie about the contents and consequences of this bill and bow down to wannabe king Donald Trump than protect the lives and livelihoods of their constituents. Regardless of what they believe, they are still beholden to their constituents and the American people. When they go home to their districts, they’ll have to explain why they voted to make more people slide into poverty, more kids go to bed hungry, and more patients die without the care they need.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tonko: Republicans Have Abdicated Their Duty & Betrayed the American People

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Paul Tonko (Capital Region New York)

    WASHINGTON, DC — Congressman Paul D. Tonko released the following statement on the House passage of President Trump’s budget, the so-called “Big, Beautiful Bill” that exacts the largest cut to health care and food assistance in American history, all to bring massive tax breaks to the wealthiest 0.1 percent.

    “This bill will go down as one of the most egregious betrayals of the American public in history. At a time when we should be celebrating the birth of our nation and a celebration of “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness,” the President and rubber-stamp Republicans have condemned millions to a harder, less free, less joyous life.

    “Republicans spent these past few weeks hemming and hawing about this legislation: from the devastating cuts to Medicaid and SNAP, to the eradication of countless manufacturing and clean energy jobs, to the massive increase in our debt. But after that whining, they went ahead and voted to pass all those disastrous provisions anyway.

    “Republicans had one job: to vote no on a bill that their constituents don’t like, that hospitals don’t like, that businesses don’t like, that unions don’t like, that they themselves don’t like. Instead, they voted yes all to appease one man.

    “It’s clear that Republicans would rather lie about the contents and consequences of this bill and bow down to wannabe king Donald Trump than protect the lives and livelihoods of their constituents. Regardless of what they believe, they are still beholden to their constituents and the American people. When they go home to their districts, they’ll have to explain why they voted to make more people slide into poverty, more kids go to bed hungry, and more patients die without the care they need.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Latta Votes to Ensure Tax Relief, Strengthen Medicaid, Prioritize American Energy Dominance, & Reduce Fraud & Abuse in Federal Government

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

    Latta Votes to Ensure Tax Relief, Strengthen Medicaid, Prioritize American Energy Dominance, & Reduce Fraud & Abuse in Federal Government

    Legislation Heads to President Trump to Sign into Law

    Washington, July 3, 2025

    Today, Congressman Bob Latta (R-OH-5) released the following statement after voting to ensure tax relief, strengthen Medicaid, prioritize American energy dominance, and reduce fraud and abuse in the federal government by supporting H.R. 1, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act:   

    “Northern Ohioans work hard to provide for their families, that’s why today I voted to ensure they receive the real tax relief they deserve through the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. This bill prioritizes American energy dominance, promotes economic growth, supports families, seniors, and small businesses, strengthens our border security. Most importantly, it puts America first, including our farmers who deserve the ability to grow their operations and access more flexible, lower-cost loans. Today’s vote takes us one step closer to cutting wasteful spending and reducing fraud and abuse in the federal government and I urge President Trump to quickly sign this bill into law.” 

    Read Congressman Latta’s statement following his support for the Energy and Commerce budget reconciliation markup here, and his statement after voting to send the Reconciliation Bill to the Senate here.  

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