NewzIntel.com

Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Business Confidence Index 2025: Ambition high but barriers to growth must be tackled

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    Pictured L-R: Paul Tamati (Director of Development, Community and Wellbeing, ABC Council), Cllr Paul Berry, Alderman Paul Greenfield, Cllr Joy Ferguson, Adrian Farrell (Chair of BPA), Nicola Wilson (Head of Economic Development, ABC Council), Cllr Tim McClelland (Chair of Economic Development and Regeneration Committee), Cllr Kyle Savage, and Ethna McNamee (Invest NI). Adrian Farrell Ð Chairperson, BPA with Paul Tamati Ð Director of Development, Community & Wellbeing, ABC Council; Cllr Paul Berry, Cllr Paul Greenfield, Cllr Joy Ferguson, Nicola Wilson – ABC Council, Cllr Tim McClelland, Cllr Kyle Savage and Ethna McNamee Ð Regional Manager, Western Office, Invest NI 20 June 2025 SRC Banbridge Co.Down CREDIT: LiamMcArdle.com

    Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council has welcomed the latest Business Confidence Index for the borough, which highlights strong entrepreneurial ambition among local firms—but also underlines the need to remove key barriers to growth.

    The 2025 Index, launched by the Business Partnership Alliance (BPA) at an event in Southern Regional College, Banbridge on Friday 20th June, provides a vital insight into business sentiment and trading conditions across the area. Now in its second year, the research is a valuable tool for the Council and its partners as they work together to shape future economic priorities.

    Despite a challenging economic backdrop, nearly half (49%) of businesses in the borough still plan to grow—demonstrating remarkable resilience and optimism. However, findings also show that a lack of available land and suitable premises is increasingly stalling progress. More than one-third of surveyed businesses said they expect to move premises in future, with a further 10% needing to relocate urgently but struggling to find suitable space.

    Councillor Tim McClelland, Chair of the Council’s Economic Development and Regeneration Committee, said: “This year’s Business Confidence Index clearly demonstrates the resilience and ambition of our local business community—despite the economic headwinds, nearly half of our firms are still planning for growth. That’s an incredibly encouraging sign. However, the findings also highlight structural barriers that we must address. As a Council, we are committed to working with partners through the Business Partnership Alliance and beyond to create the right conditions for growth, investment, and long-term economic success across the borough.”

    Chairperson of the BPA, Adrian Farrell, opened Friday’s event by highlighting that this research forms the foundation of the BPA’s lobbying priorities for the year ahead. “We’ll use these findings to engage with local, regional and central government on the real issues affecting businesses in our borough,” he said. “Top of the list is the need for action on space to grow—without it, businesses are being held back.”

    The findings were presented to attendees and prompted a lively panel discussion featuring councillors Joy Ferguson, Kyle Savage and Tim McClelland. Invest NI’s Ethna McNamee welcomed the research and emphasised the need for more creative thinking around workspace solutions, while ABC Council’s Director of Development, Community and Wellbeing, Paul Tamati reaffirmed the Council’s support for growing and ambitious businesses.

    The Index shows that the ABC borough continues to be seen as a desirable location for business, with high scores for quality of life, education, infrastructure, and workforce availability.

    Concluding the event, Adrian Farrell reinforced the importance of working together:

    “The message from today was clear—collaboration is key. In these uncertain times, we must support one another and maintain the shared ambition to grow. BPA is committed to keeping up the pressure, and to working with our partners to ensure that the Borough continues to thrive.”

    To find out more about the work of the BPA, visit: www.facebook.com/bpaabc/

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Countdown begins for the Fountainbridge/Craiglockhart by-election

    Source: Scotland – City of Edinburgh

    There are only three days to go until the Fountainbridge/Craiglockhart by-election on Thursday, June 26.

    We’re urging residents in the ward to return their postal ballots, go to a polling station to cast their votes and be mindful of the accessibility arrangements in place this Thursday.  

    Any resident in the area aged 16 and over and who has registered can vote to elect one new councillor in the by-election. The current electorate is 18,945.

    Bringing a poll card, while not necessary, is strongly encouraged as it will make the voting process quicker. 

    Returning Officer for Edinburgh, Paul Lawrence said: 

    With the by-election fast approaching, I’d encourage all residents of the Fountainbridge/Craiglockhart ward to head to their local polling station this Thursday. Please remember to bring your poll card.

    The councillor you elect will represent your community on key issues both within the ward and across Edinburgh – so make sure you take this important opportunity to make your voice heard. 

    To make sure your vote is counted, if you’ve received a postal ballot, please return it as soon as possible.

    If you need any assistance when casting your vote in person, please speak to one of our colleagues at our polling stations.

    Our elections pages provide useful information on how the Single Transferable Vote system works – you can rank candidates in order of preference, choosing as many or few as you like.

    We’re also highlighting the accessibility arrangements in place at all polling stations to help everyone cast their votes:

    • Pencil grips
    • A dedicated phone line to hear the ballot paper read out on their phones (0131 392 8556)
    • Magnifying glasses
    • Additional lighting if needed for the polling booth
    • Braille overlay for people with sight loss
    • Coloured overlay sheets for people with dyslexia
    • Oversized ballot papers

    Polling station colleagues can also help guide you to the voting booth and to mark your vote, if needed.

    You may take your phone into the polling booth to use a magnifier or text-to-speech app.

    The URL for the audio ballot paper is https://www.edinburgh.gov.uk/audioballotpaper

    Polling stations will be open from 7am to 10pm at: 

    • Kingsknowe Golf Club 
    • Edinburgh Corn Exchange 
    • St Michaels Church Hall 
    • Fountainbridge Library 
    • Boroughmuir Rugby & Community Sports Club 
    • Craiglockhart Parish Church Hall 
    • Tollcross Community Centre 

    The electronic count of votes will take place on Thursday 26 June starting at the close of poll at 10pm.  

    Find out more about the Fountainbridge/Craiglockhart by-election on our website.

    Published: June 23rd 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New green spaces ignite long-term investment for Moston Lane

    Source: City of Manchester

    A project to enhance three public spaces on Moston Lane has been completed and unveiled formally to the public this weekend, signalling the start of a wide range of investment projects in the communit

    A project to enhance three public spaces on Moston Lane has been completed and unveiled formally to the public this weekend, signalling the start of a wide range of investment projects in the community.  

    Ahead of the annual Africa Day celebration on Moston Lane, a planting ceremony was held in the Peace Gardens to mark the official reopening of the refurbished pocket parks.  

    The revived Peace Gardens, St Dunstan’s Green and the Simpson Memorial Hall Garden will each create areas of peace and quiet reflection for local residents to enjoy and encourage people to spend time on the high street.  

    Funded by the UK Government, this initial investment on Moston Lane followed consultation with local people and businesses that helped create a long-term development plan for the area.  

    Improvements to the local environment making it cleaner and more welcoming have already been completed, including changes to commercial waste collection to reduce litter issues, alongside new alleygating schemes to improve safety in local residential areas.  

    Highways investment both on the Lane and adjacent streets – including additional bollards, new road markings, and relocating certain loading bays – will improve road safety and address dangerous parking, creating a more welcoming environment for pedestrians and cyclists. 

    The Simpson Memorial Hall also received substantial investment as part of this programme, with repairs to the roof, brickwork and windows. 

    Looking ahead to the long-term regeneration opportunities in the Moston Lane regeneration framework, the Council is going to establish a forum for residents and businesses in and around Moston Lane to help shape the development plans for new public spaces, housing and businesses as they come forward.   

    The group would be a chance to find out more about the long-term plans for the neighbourhood and help guide emerging proposals for future investment, while also acting as advocates for the community.  

    More details, including how people can become involved, will be revealed later this summer.  

    Long term investment in Moston 

    North Manchester is a priority for Council-led investment with Moston Lane an important element of the city-wide district centre programme to deliver new jobs, impactful community and neighbourhood projects and homes – with a focus on affordable tenures.  

    Moston Lane will be regenerated with hundreds of new homes, space for a new public square, and local businesses. The search for a development delivery partner will conclude later in the year. 

    New housing in this area remains a key priority to help meet demand for quality, sustainable and affordable homes in the city – and the Council is working closely with the city’s housing providers to maintain a pipeline of home building in the area. 

    The first housing completions are already underway, with One Manchester constructing 60 new low carbon, affordable homes on the adjacent former Manchester College Campus.  

    Jigsaw Housing are also delivering 20 new affordable homes for social rent on Sulby Street along with a site on Kenyon Lane to construct nine affordable homes at the Manchester Living Rent as part of Project 500.  

    While One Manchester are developing 29 affordable homes for social rent on Winston Road, Hodge Street and Lordship Close – another Project 500 site in Moston. 

    Find out more about the Council’s investment in the city’s high streets and district centres 

    Leader of the Council Bev Craig said:

    “North Manchester is an area of key focus for Council investment to build quality new homes, improve neighbourhoods and create jobs for our residents. Part of this is our commitment to investing in our high streets as the beating hearts of our communities – and Moston Lane is a great example of this.  

    “This is about creating district centres that our residents can be proud of. Spaces that attract visitors to support local businesses and create opportunities for local economic growth.  

    “These initial projects to create new and improved green spaces on Moston Lane is only the beginning for this community that will see hundreds of new homes – with a focus on genuinely social rent and affordable housing – a new public square and opportunities for new shops and businesses.” 

    Cllr Gavin White, Manchester City Council’s executive member for housing and development, said:

    “Moston Lane is an incredibly important space for the local community and is brimming with untapped potential. Our investment has now begun with three improved green, tranquil pocket parks for local people to enjoy and encourage them to spend time on their high street. But it really is a case of watch this space for Moston because there is far more to come – and we look forward to continuing the conversation with local residents about the future of their neighbourhood.” 

    John Curtin, organising member of Africa Day on Moston Lane, said:

    “There’s huge pride in the Moston community and we know that lots of local people have been calling for investment on the Lane for some time to support the local businesses and bring more people to our high street. It’s great to open the new mini parks open to the public this week – already it feels like a change in our neighbourhoood. But there’s more to come – and I can’t wait to see it.” 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Leader reacts to Government’s new Industrial Strategy

    Source: City of Manchester

    Leader of the Council Bev Craig welcomes the new strategy that has the potential to create jobs, while attracting new business and supporting growth.

    Cllr Craig said: 

    “Manchester is the fastest-growing UK city and will be at the forefront of creating thousands of new jobs and growing the country’s economy. Finally, we have a Government with a long term national Industrial Strategy focused on attracting investment, making it easier for businesses to grow, protecting jobs and -crucially – backing our plans locally. Having just returned from a Greater Manchester International Trade Mission, we know the difference this makes. 

    “Manchester already has globally recognised strengths in many of the key priority sectors identified – such as life sciences, professional, legal and business services, creative industries and digital, tech and AI – this will supercharge them even more.

    “It’s great to see the Government announce an Industrial Strategy Council to oversee delivery and even better news that Manchester has been chosen as its headquarters.  In a changing world, the world’s first industrial city is well-placed to help shape the dynamic industries of the future.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: GUU at the competition “My country – my Russia”: the rector presented awards, and a graduate became the winner

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    On June 21, 2025, as part of the Youth Day of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF), a solemn awards ceremony was held for the winners of the XXII season of the All-Russian competition “My Country – My Russia”.

    Rector of the State University of Management Vladimir Stroyev presented awards to the winners in the nomination “Transport. Communication routes of my country”. The coordinator of experts in this area, including teachers of our university, was the director of the Institute of Economics and Finance of the State University of Management Galina Sorokina.

    “For many years now I have been taking part in the award ceremony and in the competition as a whole. Our teachers and students also actively participate. Every year during the selection and evaluation of works, we are all inspired by the ideas of the children. I am convinced every time that there are many passionate, beautiful and good people in our country,” said Vladimir Stroyev.

    In addition, Victoria Kostikova, a graduate of the Institute of Economics and Finance of the State University of Management this year in the International Management program, became the winner of the competition in the nomination “My Hospitable Russia” with the International Educational Project “Teleport”.

    “The project provides an opportunity for foreign students to become researchers of Russian culture, tell their stories, and share them with the world. Behind this project is friendship, which is stronger than borders and prejudices. We study the past through cultural heritage, explore the present through travel and dialogue, and together we shape a multipolar future where Russia is perceived not as an abstraction, but as a country of people to which one wants to return,” Victoria said about her project.

    Let us recall that 183 participants aged 18 and over made it to the final stage of the “My Country – My Russia” competition, and the prize places were taken by 39 authors of the best projects aimed at the socio-economic development of Russian territories.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Construction to Begin on Saskatoon City Centre School Project

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on June 23, 2025

    Today, Education Minister Everett Hindley joined representatives from the Saskatoon Public School Division, Saskatoon Tribal Council, Gabriel Dumont Métis Local 11 and other partners to mark the start of construction on the new City Centre School in Saskatoon with a sod-turning ceremony. 

    “This school infrastructure project is a testament to our government’s commitment to providing safe and supportive learning environments for our province’s students,” Hindley said. “The new school will provide high-quality education spaces that serve the needs of students and families for years to come. This build will be in addition to the 11 new schools already completed in Saskatoon, since we formed government.”

    “We are very excited to announce the start of construction on the Saskatoon City Centre School,” SaskBuilds and Procurement Minister David Marit said. “This build shows our province’s focus on building modern infrastructure for future generations and supporting strong and growing communities.”  

    The new school will accommodate up to 400 Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 8 public school students from King George, Pleasant Hill, and Riversdale neighbourhoods, in addition to providing 74 new child care spaces.   

    “This is an exciting and significant milestone in realizing this long-awaited and much-needed school,” Saskatoon Public Schools Board of Education Chair Kim Stranden said. “This school will be the innovative facility that area students deserve.” 

    The total construction cost for the project is $31.3 million and covers both site work and construction. Since 2008, the Government of Saskatchewan has committed approximately $2.8 billion toward school infrastructure. This includes 74 new schools, 31 major renovation projects and 10 minor renovation projects.

    Construction of the school begins summer 2025.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bill LePinske Appointed IAM Midwest Territory Coordinator

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    IAM International President Brian Bryant has appointed Bill LePinske to serve as Midwest Territory Coordinator, effective June 1, 2025.

    LePinske had served as an International Representative after joining the Midwest Territory’s staff in 2017. He has most recently served as the territory’s National Labor Relations Board representative, which helps file for union elections for workers to join the IAM.

    “Bill is a longtime IAM member and has been instrumental in organizing and servicing our members throughout the Midwest for many years,” said IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli. “We’re excited to welcome Bill to this new role and continuing to provide the best representation possible to our proud membership.”

    LePinske initiated into IAM Local 701 in 2002 when he helped organize his Joliet Dodge shop. He served as Shop Steward before being appointed to the position of organizer in 2011, and then to the position of Business Representative in 2014. 

    He has also served as a delegate to the 2012 and 2016 IAM International Conventions, the IAM Illinois State Council, and the Chicago Federation of Labor.

    The post Bill LePinske Appointed IAM Midwest Territory Coordinator appeared first on IAM Union.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Founder of Lender Service Provider Convicted for Role in Multimillion-Dollar PPP Fraud Scheme

    Source: US State of California

    A federal jury convicted Stephanie Hockridge, a founder of the lender service provider Blueacorn, on Friday in connection with a scheme to fraudulently obtain tens of millions of dollars in COVID-19 relief money guaranteed by the U. S. Small Business Administration (SBA) through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP).

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Hockridge, also known as Stephanie Reis, 42, of Rio Grande, Puerto Rico, and previously of Arizona, conspired with others to submit false and fraudulent PPP loan applications, including by fabricating documents that falsified income and payroll in order to receive loan funds for which they were not eligible.

    “This defendant exploited a national emergency to personally profit from a taxpayer-funded program intended to support vulnerable individuals and small businesses,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “This conviction demonstrates the Department’s commitment to holding individuals accountable for defrauding the government and wasting taxpayer money.”

    “During a time of crisis in our country, this defendant abused the generosity of the American people by stealing money dedicated to the survival of small businesses to fraudulently enrich herself,” said Acting U. S. Attorney Nancy E. Larson for the Northern District of Texas. “We are proud of the diligent work of our law enforcement partners to hold her accountable and bring her to justice. Make no mistake, our efforts to bring such fraudsters to justice are ongoing.”

    “Hockridge’s conviction demonstrates the FBI’s continued commitment to protecting taxpayer-funded programs from fraud and abuse,” said Assistant Director Jose A. Perez of the FBI Criminal Investigative Division. “This program was designed to provide critical funds to those struggling during a national crisis, not line the pockets of people seeking to exploit government assistance. The FBI remains committed to pursuing anyone who abuses the public trust for personal gain.”

    “Ms. Hockridge defrauded the federal government of millions of dollars in pandemic relief funds for her own personal gain and has been brought to justice,” said Special Agent in Charge Jon Ellwanger of the Office of Inspector General for the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) Western Region. “We are proud to have worked with our federal law enforcement partners to hold Ms. Hockridge accountable.”

    “Exploiting the Small Business Administration’s pandemic relief programs for personal gain is an egregious theft of taxpayer funds,” said Deputy Inspector General Sheldon Shoemaker of the SBA Office of Inspector General. “SBA OIG will aggressively root out fraud to protect the integrity of SBA’s programs, which are intended to provide vital assistance to the nation’s small businesses. I want to thank the U. S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners for their dedication and commitment to seeing justice served.”

    “This verdict is a victory for justice, accountability, and the American public,” said Special Agent in Charge Christopher J. Altemus Jr. of the IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) Dallas Field Office. “In a time of crisis, the Paycheck Protection Program was created as a lifeline to keep small businesses afloat and families fed. Ms. Hockridge saw it as an opportunity to enrich herself. Driven by greed, she used her business to steal millions of dollars intended for those in need. The women and men of IRS-CI will continue to protect what’s right and stand firmly with the honest business owners who play by the rules.”

    As proven at trial, Hockridge co-founded Blueacorn in April 2020, purportedly to assist small businesses and individuals in obtaining PPP loans. To get larger loans for certain PPP applicants, Hockridge and her co-conspirators fabricated documents, including payroll records, tax documentation, and bank statements. Hockridge and her co-conspirators charged borrowers kickbacks based on a percentage of the funds received.

    As part of the scheme, Hockridge and others offered a personalized service to their clients called “VIPPP” to help potential borrowers complete PPP loan applications. Hockridge recruited co-conspirators to work as VIPPP referral agents and coach borrowers on how to submit false PPP loan applications. To get more kickbacks from borrowers and a higher percentage of lender fees from the SBA, Hockridge and her co-conspirators submitted PPP loan applications that they knew contained materially false information. In total, Hockridge and her coconspirators processed tens of millions of dollars in fraudulent PPP loans. Hockridge was convicted of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and acquitted of four counts of wire fraud. She is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 10 and faces up to 20 years in prison.

    The FBI, IRS-CI, the Special Inspector General for Pandemic Recovery, Federal Reserve Board-CFPB Office of Inspector General, and SBA OIG investigated the case.

    Acting Assistant Chief Philip Trout of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section, Trial Attorneys Elizabeth Carr and Ryan McLaren of the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section, and Assistant U. S. Attorney Matthew Weybrecht for the Northern District of Texas are prosecuting the case.

    The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s prosecution of fraud schemes that exploit the PPP. Since the enactment of the CARES Act, the Fraud Section has prosecuted over 200 defendants in more than 130 criminal cases and has seized over $78 million in cash proceeds derived from fraudulently obtained PPP funds, as well as numerous real estate properties and luxury items purchased with such proceeds. More information can be found at www. justice. gov/criminal/criminal-fraud/cares-act-fraud

    MLARS’s Bank Integrity Unit investigates and prosecutes banks and other financial institutions, including their officers, managers, and employees, whose actions threaten the integrity of the individual institution or the wider financial system.

    Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Justice Department’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at www. justice. gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Founder of Lender Service Provider Convicted for Role in Multimillion-Dollar PPP Fraud Scheme

    Source: US State of California

    A federal jury convicted Stephanie Hockridge, a founder of the lender service provider Blueacorn, on Friday in connection with a scheme to fraudulently obtain tens of millions of dollars in COVID-19 relief money guaranteed by the U. S. Small Business Administration (SBA) through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP).

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Hockridge, also known as Stephanie Reis, 42, of Rio Grande, Puerto Rico, and previously of Arizona, conspired with others to submit false and fraudulent PPP loan applications, including by fabricating documents that falsified income and payroll in order to receive loan funds for which they were not eligible.

    “This defendant exploited a national emergency to personally profit from a taxpayer-funded program intended to support vulnerable individuals and small businesses,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “This conviction demonstrates the Department’s commitment to holding individuals accountable for defrauding the government and wasting taxpayer money.”

    “During a time of crisis in our country, this defendant abused the generosity of the American people by stealing money dedicated to the survival of small businesses to fraudulently enrich herself,” said Acting U. S. Attorney Nancy E. Larson for the Northern District of Texas. “We are proud of the diligent work of our law enforcement partners to hold her accountable and bring her to justice. Make no mistake, our efforts to bring such fraudsters to justice are ongoing.”

    “Hockridge’s conviction demonstrates the FBI’s continued commitment to protecting taxpayer-funded programs from fraud and abuse,” said Assistant Director Jose A. Perez of the FBI Criminal Investigative Division. “This program was designed to provide critical funds to those struggling during a national crisis, not line the pockets of people seeking to exploit government assistance. The FBI remains committed to pursuing anyone who abuses the public trust for personal gain.”

    “Ms. Hockridge defrauded the federal government of millions of dollars in pandemic relief funds for her own personal gain and has been brought to justice,” said Special Agent in Charge Jon Ellwanger of the Office of Inspector General for the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) Western Region. “We are proud to have worked with our federal law enforcement partners to hold Ms. Hockridge accountable.”

    “Exploiting the Small Business Administration’s pandemic relief programs for personal gain is an egregious theft of taxpayer funds,” said Deputy Inspector General Sheldon Shoemaker of the SBA Office of Inspector General. “SBA OIG will aggressively root out fraud to protect the integrity of SBA’s programs, which are intended to provide vital assistance to the nation’s small businesses. I want to thank the U. S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners for their dedication and commitment to seeing justice served.”

    “This verdict is a victory for justice, accountability, and the American public,” said Special Agent in Charge Christopher J. Altemus Jr. of the IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) Dallas Field Office. “In a time of crisis, the Paycheck Protection Program was created as a lifeline to keep small businesses afloat and families fed. Ms. Hockridge saw it as an opportunity to enrich herself. Driven by greed, she used her business to steal millions of dollars intended for those in need. The women and men of IRS-CI will continue to protect what’s right and stand firmly with the honest business owners who play by the rules.”

    As proven at trial, Hockridge co-founded Blueacorn in April 2020, purportedly to assist small businesses and individuals in obtaining PPP loans. To get larger loans for certain PPP applicants, Hockridge and her co-conspirators fabricated documents, including payroll records, tax documentation, and bank statements. Hockridge and her co-conspirators charged borrowers kickbacks based on a percentage of the funds received.

    As part of the scheme, Hockridge and others offered a personalized service to their clients called “VIPPP” to help potential borrowers complete PPP loan applications. Hockridge recruited co-conspirators to work as VIPPP referral agents and coach borrowers on how to submit false PPP loan applications. To get more kickbacks from borrowers and a higher percentage of lender fees from the SBA, Hockridge and her co-conspirators submitted PPP loan applications that they knew contained materially false information. In total, Hockridge and her coconspirators processed tens of millions of dollars in fraudulent PPP loans. Hockridge was convicted of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and acquitted of four counts of wire fraud. She is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 10 and faces up to 20 years in prison.

    The FBI, IRS-CI, the Special Inspector General for Pandemic Recovery, Federal Reserve Board-CFPB Office of Inspector General, and SBA OIG investigated the case.

    Acting Assistant Chief Philip Trout of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section, Trial Attorneys Elizabeth Carr and Ryan McLaren of the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section, and Assistant U. S. Attorney Matthew Weybrecht for the Northern District of Texas are prosecuting the case.

    The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s prosecution of fraud schemes that exploit the PPP. Since the enactment of the CARES Act, the Fraud Section has prosecuted over 200 defendants in more than 130 criminal cases and has seized over $78 million in cash proceeds derived from fraudulently obtained PPP funds, as well as numerous real estate properties and luxury items purchased with such proceeds. More information can be found at www. justice. gov/criminal/criminal-fraud/cares-act-fraud

    MLARS’s Bank Integrity Unit investigates and prosecutes banks and other financial institutions, including their officers, managers, and employees, whose actions threaten the integrity of the individual institution or the wider financial system.

    Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Justice Department’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at www. justice. gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom announces 48 new projects to film in California thanks to the state’s Film & Television Tax Credit Program

    Source: US State of California Governor

    Jun 23, 2025

    What you need to know: Thanks to California’s Film and Television Tax Credit Program, 48 projects — including 43 independent features — will be made in California, projected to generate $664 million in economic activity and employ over 6,500 cast and crew across the Golden State.

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Newsom today continued his work in protecting film production jobs in Los Angeles and across the state with a new round of 48 projects approved for the California Film Commission’s Film and Television Tax Credit Program. Governor Newsom recently proposed to double down on this vital program, by expanding the tax credit from $330 million to $750 million to help boost this iconic industry and production in California.

    “California didn’t earn its role as the heart of the entertainment world by accident — it was built over generations by skilled workers and creative talent pushing boundaries. Today’s awards help ensure this legacy continues, keeping cameras rolling here at home, supporting thousands of crew members behind the scenes and boosting local economies that depend on a strong film and television industry.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Why this matters

    This diverse slate of feature films — ranging from major studio productions to independent film — is expected to generate $664 million in total spending throughout the state, including $485 in qualified expenditures and more than $302 million in wages for California workers.

    These projects, which include 43 independent films, are collectively expected to hire 6,515 cast and crew members, as well 32,000 background performers (measured in days worked), across 1,346 total California filming days.

    More than half of the films will be shot in the Los Angeles area, helping to sustain the birthplace of this iconic industry and supporting the community as it recovers from recent wildfires. Enabling the industry’s reach throughout the state, 22 of the selected projects will conduct significant filming outside the Los Angeles area, contributing 329 out-of-zone filming days and substantial economic benefits in Ventura County (Make A Wish, The Teller, Things We Cannot Touch), San Francisco and the Bay Area (High Priestess of Souls, Our Kind of Cruelty), El Dorado and Placer Counties (Gold Mountain), San Bernardino and Riverside Counties (Superbloom, The Heidi Fleiss Story), Bakersfield in Kern County (Counting by 7s) and coastal communities such as Half Moon Bay and Costa Mesa (Sponsor, Doll).

    Today’s slate of awards marks the ninth allocation in this fiscal year and reinforces California’s continued leadership as a global production hub, even as other states and countries pursue projects with their own incentive offerings.

    “This industry is core to California’s creative economy and keeping production here at home is more important than ever,” said Colleen Bell, Director of the California Film Commission. “This round of tax credits shows our commitment to supporting both indie and studio productions while spreading the economic benefits of filming across the state.”

    Highlights from this round of awards

    • Five major studio features, including Sony Pictures’ “One of Them Days Sequel” — the latest film produced by Issa Rae — which alone is projected to spend more than $39 million in qualified expenditures.
    • Six independently produced features with budgets over $10 million, such as “Gold Mountain,” “The Teller,” and “They Follow,” all of which plan to film primarily outside of the Los Angeles area.
    • 37 independent projects with budgets of $10 million or less, contributing to the state’s goal of expanding access to underrepresented filmmakers and promoting more inclusive storytelling.

    “Los Angeles was an essential backdrop to ‘One of Them Days’ and we are thrilled that Dreux and Alyssa will embark on another authentic escapade through the city’s streets in the sequel through the support of California’s Film and Television Tax Credit,” said Nicole Brown, President of TriStar Pictures.

    Read more about today’s announcement, including a full list of productions that are part of the Film and Television Tax Credit Program here.

    California is a creative economy powerhouse

    Last fall, Governor Newsom proposed expanding California’s Film & Television Tax Credit Program to $750 million annually, a massive increase from the current $330 million annual allocation, which would position California as one of the top states for capped film incentive programs.

    As one of the strategic sectors outlined in the recently launched California Jobs First Economic Blueprint, the creative economy has deep roots in California’s history and continues to be an engine for innovation, cultural expression, and economic growth.

    • In 2023, California was home to 220,000 creative economy jobs, one in every four creative economy jobs in the U.S.
    • The average salary paid to creative workers in 2023 was $160,000, more than 50% higher than the California average.
    • And while the Los Angeles region leads the way in jobs generated by the creative economy, three other regions — Redwoods, the Bay Area, and the Southern Border — also identified film, TV, and the arts as a regional strategic sector.

    About the Film and TV Tax Credit Program

    The Film and Television Tax Credit Program provides tax credits based on qualified expenditures for eligible productions produced in California.

    Since its launch in 2009 through May 2025, the program has approved 799 projects that have generated nearly $27 billion in economic activity, resulting in less runaway production, new career pathways for below-the-line workers and increased economic opportunity in rural, suburban and urban communities alike. The program further incentivizes projects that film outside the Los Angeles area or relocate to California from out-of-state. The program also requires projects to invest in building career exposure and training opportunities for underrepresented communities.

    Looking ahead, the next television application window is slated for July 7-9, 2025. Film applications will be accepted August 25-27, 2025. Application dates and deadlines are posted on the California Film Commission website.

    Recent news

    Jun 20, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Soon-Sik Lee, of Bellevue, Washington, has been appointed Chief of Planning and Engineering at the California High Speed Rail Authority. Lee has been a Vice President – Senior Program…

    Jun 19, 2025

    News What you need to know: The Ninth Circuit rejected Trump’s sweeping claim that he can federalize the National Guard for any reason and avoid judicial scrutiny, even as it stayed an emergency district court order. This is a critical check on presidential overreach…

    Jun 19, 2025

    News Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring “Juneteenth National Freedom Day: A Day of Observance” in the State of California.The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below: PROCLAMATIONJuly 4 is not the only…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom announces 48 new projects to film in California thanks to the state’s Film & Television Tax Credit Program

    Source: US State of California Governor

    Jun 23, 2025

    What you need to know: Thanks to California’s Film and Television Tax Credit Program, 48 projects — including 43 independent features — will be made in California, projected to generate $664 million in economic activity and employ over 6,500 cast and crew across the Golden State.

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Newsom today continued his work in protecting film production jobs in Los Angeles and across the state with a new round of 48 projects approved for the California Film Commission’s Film and Television Tax Credit Program. Governor Newsom recently proposed to double down on this vital program, by expanding the tax credit from $330 million to $750 million to help boost this iconic industry and production in California.

    “California didn’t earn its role as the heart of the entertainment world by accident — it was built over generations by skilled workers and creative talent pushing boundaries. Today’s awards help ensure this legacy continues, keeping cameras rolling here at home, supporting thousands of crew members behind the scenes and boosting local economies that depend on a strong film and television industry.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Why this matters

    This diverse slate of feature films — ranging from major studio productions to independent film — is expected to generate $664 million in total spending throughout the state, including $485 in qualified expenditures and more than $302 million in wages for California workers.

    These projects, which include 43 independent films, are collectively expected to hire 6,515 cast and crew members, as well 32,000 background performers (measured in days worked), across 1,346 total California filming days.

    More than half of the films will be shot in the Los Angeles area, helping to sustain the birthplace of this iconic industry and supporting the community as it recovers from recent wildfires. Enabling the industry’s reach throughout the state, 22 of the selected projects will conduct significant filming outside the Los Angeles area, contributing 329 out-of-zone filming days and substantial economic benefits in Ventura County (Make A Wish, The Teller, Things We Cannot Touch), San Francisco and the Bay Area (High Priestess of Souls, Our Kind of Cruelty), El Dorado and Placer Counties (Gold Mountain), San Bernardino and Riverside Counties (Superbloom, The Heidi Fleiss Story), Bakersfield in Kern County (Counting by 7s) and coastal communities such as Half Moon Bay and Costa Mesa (Sponsor, Doll).

    Today’s slate of awards marks the ninth allocation in this fiscal year and reinforces California’s continued leadership as a global production hub, even as other states and countries pursue projects with their own incentive offerings.

    “This industry is core to California’s creative economy and keeping production here at home is more important than ever,” said Colleen Bell, Director of the California Film Commission. “This round of tax credits shows our commitment to supporting both indie and studio productions while spreading the economic benefits of filming across the state.”

    Highlights from this round of awards

    • Five major studio features, including Sony Pictures’ “One of Them Days Sequel” — the latest film produced by Issa Rae — which alone is projected to spend more than $39 million in qualified expenditures.
    • Six independently produced features with budgets over $10 million, such as “Gold Mountain,” “The Teller,” and “They Follow,” all of which plan to film primarily outside of the Los Angeles area.
    • 37 independent projects with budgets of $10 million or less, contributing to the state’s goal of expanding access to underrepresented filmmakers and promoting more inclusive storytelling.

    “Los Angeles was an essential backdrop to ‘One of Them Days’ and we are thrilled that Dreux and Alyssa will embark on another authentic escapade through the city’s streets in the sequel through the support of California’s Film and Television Tax Credit,” said Nicole Brown, President of TriStar Pictures.

    Read more about today’s announcement, including a full list of productions that are part of the Film and Television Tax Credit Program here.

    California is a creative economy powerhouse

    Last fall, Governor Newsom proposed expanding California’s Film & Television Tax Credit Program to $750 million annually, a massive increase from the current $330 million annual allocation, which would position California as one of the top states for capped film incentive programs.

    As one of the strategic sectors outlined in the recently launched California Jobs First Economic Blueprint, the creative economy has deep roots in California’s history and continues to be an engine for innovation, cultural expression, and economic growth.

    • In 2023, California was home to 220,000 creative economy jobs, one in every four creative economy jobs in the U.S.
    • The average salary paid to creative workers in 2023 was $160,000, more than 50% higher than the California average.
    • And while the Los Angeles region leads the way in jobs generated by the creative economy, three other regions — Redwoods, the Bay Area, and the Southern Border — also identified film, TV, and the arts as a regional strategic sector.

    About the Film and TV Tax Credit Program

    The Film and Television Tax Credit Program provides tax credits based on qualified expenditures for eligible productions produced in California.

    Since its launch in 2009 through May 2025, the program has approved 799 projects that have generated nearly $27 billion in economic activity, resulting in less runaway production, new career pathways for below-the-line workers and increased economic opportunity in rural, suburban and urban communities alike. The program further incentivizes projects that film outside the Los Angeles area or relocate to California from out-of-state. The program also requires projects to invest in building career exposure and training opportunities for underrepresented communities.

    Looking ahead, the next television application window is slated for July 7-9, 2025. Film applications will be accepted August 25-27, 2025. Application dates and deadlines are posted on the California Film Commission website.

    Recent news

    Jun 20, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Soon-Sik Lee, of Bellevue, Washington, has been appointed Chief of Planning and Engineering at the California High Speed Rail Authority. Lee has been a Vice President – Senior Program…

    Jun 19, 2025

    News What you need to know: The Ninth Circuit rejected Trump’s sweeping claim that he can federalize the National Guard for any reason and avoid judicial scrutiny, even as it stayed an emergency district court order. This is a critical check on presidential overreach…

    Jun 19, 2025

    News Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring “Juneteenth National Freedom Day: A Day of Observance” in the State of California.The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below: PROCLAMATIONJuly 4 is not the only…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom announces 48 new projects to film in California thanks to the state’s Film & Television Tax Credit Program

    Source: US State of California Governor

    Jun 23, 2025

    What you need to know: Thanks to California’s Film and Television Tax Credit Program, 48 projects — including 43 independent features — will be made in California, projected to generate $664 million in economic activity and employ over 6,500 cast and crew across the Golden State.

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Newsom today continued his work in protecting film production jobs in Los Angeles and across the state with a new round of 48 projects approved for the California Film Commission’s Film and Television Tax Credit Program. Governor Newsom recently proposed to double down on this vital program, by expanding the tax credit from $330 million to $750 million to help boost this iconic industry and production in California.

    “California didn’t earn its role as the heart of the entertainment world by accident — it was built over generations by skilled workers and creative talent pushing boundaries. Today’s awards help ensure this legacy continues, keeping cameras rolling here at home, supporting thousands of crew members behind the scenes and boosting local economies that depend on a strong film and television industry.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Why this matters

    This diverse slate of feature films — ranging from major studio productions to independent film — is expected to generate $664 million in total spending throughout the state, including $485 in qualified expenditures and more than $302 million in wages for California workers.

    These projects, which include 43 independent films, are collectively expected to hire 6,515 cast and crew members, as well 32,000 background performers (measured in days worked), across 1,346 total California filming days.

    More than half of the films will be shot in the Los Angeles area, helping to sustain the birthplace of this iconic industry and supporting the community as it recovers from recent wildfires. Enabling the industry’s reach throughout the state, 22 of the selected projects will conduct significant filming outside the Los Angeles area, contributing 329 out-of-zone filming days and substantial economic benefits in Ventura County (Make A Wish, The Teller, Things We Cannot Touch), San Francisco and the Bay Area (High Priestess of Souls, Our Kind of Cruelty), El Dorado and Placer Counties (Gold Mountain), San Bernardino and Riverside Counties (Superbloom, The Heidi Fleiss Story), Bakersfield in Kern County (Counting by 7s) and coastal communities such as Half Moon Bay and Costa Mesa (Sponsor, Doll).

    Today’s slate of awards marks the ninth allocation in this fiscal year and reinforces California’s continued leadership as a global production hub, even as other states and countries pursue projects with their own incentive offerings.

    “This industry is core to California’s creative economy and keeping production here at home is more important than ever,” said Colleen Bell, Director of the California Film Commission. “This round of tax credits shows our commitment to supporting both indie and studio productions while spreading the economic benefits of filming across the state.”

    Highlights from this round of awards

    • Five major studio features, including Sony Pictures’ “One of Them Days Sequel” — the latest film produced by Issa Rae — which alone is projected to spend more than $39 million in qualified expenditures.
    • Six independently produced features with budgets over $10 million, such as “Gold Mountain,” “The Teller,” and “They Follow,” all of which plan to film primarily outside of the Los Angeles area.
    • 37 independent projects with budgets of $10 million or less, contributing to the state’s goal of expanding access to underrepresented filmmakers and promoting more inclusive storytelling.

    “Los Angeles was an essential backdrop to ‘One of Them Days’ and we are thrilled that Dreux and Alyssa will embark on another authentic escapade through the city’s streets in the sequel through the support of California’s Film and Television Tax Credit,” said Nicole Brown, President of TriStar Pictures.

    Read more about today’s announcement, including a full list of productions that are part of the Film and Television Tax Credit Program here.

    California is a creative economy powerhouse

    Last fall, Governor Newsom proposed expanding California’s Film & Television Tax Credit Program to $750 million annually, a massive increase from the current $330 million annual allocation, which would position California as one of the top states for capped film incentive programs.

    As one of the strategic sectors outlined in the recently launched California Jobs First Economic Blueprint, the creative economy has deep roots in California’s history and continues to be an engine for innovation, cultural expression, and economic growth.

    • In 2023, California was home to 220,000 creative economy jobs, one in every four creative economy jobs in the U.S.
    • The average salary paid to creative workers in 2023 was $160,000, more than 50% higher than the California average.
    • And while the Los Angeles region leads the way in jobs generated by the creative economy, three other regions — Redwoods, the Bay Area, and the Southern Border — also identified film, TV, and the arts as a regional strategic sector.

    About the Film and TV Tax Credit Program

    The Film and Television Tax Credit Program provides tax credits based on qualified expenditures for eligible productions produced in California.

    Since its launch in 2009 through May 2025, the program has approved 799 projects that have generated nearly $27 billion in economic activity, resulting in less runaway production, new career pathways for below-the-line workers and increased economic opportunity in rural, suburban and urban communities alike. The program further incentivizes projects that film outside the Los Angeles area or relocate to California from out-of-state. The program also requires projects to invest in building career exposure and training opportunities for underrepresented communities.

    Looking ahead, the next television application window is slated for July 7-9, 2025. Film applications will be accepted August 25-27, 2025. Application dates and deadlines are posted on the California Film Commission website.

    Recent news

    Jun 20, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Soon-Sik Lee, of Bellevue, Washington, has been appointed Chief of Planning and Engineering at the California High Speed Rail Authority. Lee has been a Vice President – Senior Program…

    Jun 19, 2025

    News What you need to know: The Ninth Circuit rejected Trump’s sweeping claim that he can federalize the National Guard for any reason and avoid judicial scrutiny, even as it stayed an emergency district court order. This is a critical check on presidential overreach…

    Jun 19, 2025

    News Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring “Juneteenth National Freedom Day: A Day of Observance” in the State of California.The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below: PROCLAMATIONJuly 4 is not the only…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom announces 48 new projects to film in California thanks to the state’s Film & Television Tax Credit Program

    Source: US State of California Governor

    Jun 23, 2025

    What you need to know: Thanks to California’s Film and Television Tax Credit Program, 48 projects — including 43 independent features — will be made in California, projected to generate $664 million in economic activity and employ over 6,500 cast and crew across the Golden State.

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Newsom today continued his work in protecting film production jobs in Los Angeles and across the state with a new round of 48 projects approved for the California Film Commission’s Film and Television Tax Credit Program. Governor Newsom recently proposed to double down on this vital program, by expanding the tax credit from $330 million to $750 million to help boost this iconic industry and production in California.

    “California didn’t earn its role as the heart of the entertainment world by accident — it was built over generations by skilled workers and creative talent pushing boundaries. Today’s awards help ensure this legacy continues, keeping cameras rolling here at home, supporting thousands of crew members behind the scenes and boosting local economies that depend on a strong film and television industry.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Why this matters

    This diverse slate of feature films — ranging from major studio productions to independent film — is expected to generate $664 million in total spending throughout the state, including $485 in qualified expenditures and more than $302 million in wages for California workers.

    These projects, which include 43 independent films, are collectively expected to hire 6,515 cast and crew members, as well 32,000 background performers (measured in days worked), across 1,346 total California filming days.

    More than half of the films will be shot in the Los Angeles area, helping to sustain the birthplace of this iconic industry and supporting the community as it recovers from recent wildfires. Enabling the industry’s reach throughout the state, 22 of the selected projects will conduct significant filming outside the Los Angeles area, contributing 329 out-of-zone filming days and substantial economic benefits in Ventura County (Make A Wish, The Teller, Things We Cannot Touch), San Francisco and the Bay Area (High Priestess of Souls, Our Kind of Cruelty), El Dorado and Placer Counties (Gold Mountain), San Bernardino and Riverside Counties (Superbloom, The Heidi Fleiss Story), Bakersfield in Kern County (Counting by 7s) and coastal communities such as Half Moon Bay and Costa Mesa (Sponsor, Doll).

    Today’s slate of awards marks the ninth allocation in this fiscal year and reinforces California’s continued leadership as a global production hub, even as other states and countries pursue projects with their own incentive offerings.

    “This industry is core to California’s creative economy and keeping production here at home is more important than ever,” said Colleen Bell, Director of the California Film Commission. “This round of tax credits shows our commitment to supporting both indie and studio productions while spreading the economic benefits of filming across the state.”

    Highlights from this round of awards

    • Five major studio features, including Sony Pictures’ “One of Them Days Sequel” — the latest film produced by Issa Rae — which alone is projected to spend more than $39 million in qualified expenditures.
    • Six independently produced features with budgets over $10 million, such as “Gold Mountain,” “The Teller,” and “They Follow,” all of which plan to film primarily outside of the Los Angeles area.
    • 37 independent projects with budgets of $10 million or less, contributing to the state’s goal of expanding access to underrepresented filmmakers and promoting more inclusive storytelling.

    “Los Angeles was an essential backdrop to ‘One of Them Days’ and we are thrilled that Dreux and Alyssa will embark on another authentic escapade through the city’s streets in the sequel through the support of California’s Film and Television Tax Credit,” said Nicole Brown, President of TriStar Pictures.

    Read more about today’s announcement, including a full list of productions that are part of the Film and Television Tax Credit Program here.

    California is a creative economy powerhouse

    Last fall, Governor Newsom proposed expanding California’s Film & Television Tax Credit Program to $750 million annually, a massive increase from the current $330 million annual allocation, which would position California as one of the top states for capped film incentive programs.

    As one of the strategic sectors outlined in the recently launched California Jobs First Economic Blueprint, the creative economy has deep roots in California’s history and continues to be an engine for innovation, cultural expression, and economic growth.

    • In 2023, California was home to 220,000 creative economy jobs, one in every four creative economy jobs in the U.S.
    • The average salary paid to creative workers in 2023 was $160,000, more than 50% higher than the California average.
    • And while the Los Angeles region leads the way in jobs generated by the creative economy, three other regions — Redwoods, the Bay Area, and the Southern Border — also identified film, TV, and the arts as a regional strategic sector.

    About the Film and TV Tax Credit Program

    The Film and Television Tax Credit Program provides tax credits based on qualified expenditures for eligible productions produced in California.

    Since its launch in 2009 through May 2025, the program has approved 799 projects that have generated nearly $27 billion in economic activity, resulting in less runaway production, new career pathways for below-the-line workers and increased economic opportunity in rural, suburban and urban communities alike. The program further incentivizes projects that film outside the Los Angeles area or relocate to California from out-of-state. The program also requires projects to invest in building career exposure and training opportunities for underrepresented communities.

    Looking ahead, the next television application window is slated for July 7-9, 2025. Film applications will be accepted August 25-27, 2025. Application dates and deadlines are posted on the California Film Commission website.

    Recent news

    Jun 20, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Soon-Sik Lee, of Bellevue, Washington, has been appointed Chief of Planning and Engineering at the California High Speed Rail Authority. Lee has been a Vice President – Senior Program…

    Jun 19, 2025

    News What you need to know: The Ninth Circuit rejected Trump’s sweeping claim that he can federalize the National Guard for any reason and avoid judicial scrutiny, even as it stayed an emergency district court order. This is a critical check on presidential overreach…

    Jun 19, 2025

    News Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring “Juneteenth National Freedom Day: A Day of Observance” in the State of California.The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below: PROCLAMATIONJuly 4 is not the only…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Lawler, Chairman of the Middle East And North Africa Subcommittee, Strongly Condemns Indiscriminate Iranian Attack on Civilians

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

    Pearl River, NY – 6/16/2025… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler, the Chairman of the Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement condemning the targeting of innocent civilians in Israel by the extremist Iranian regime. More than 20 Israeli civilians have lost their lives in recent days due to the Iranian regime’s indiscriminate missile attacks.

    “I am outraged at how Iran has been conducting itself in this conflict – indiscriminately killing Jews and Arabs alike,” said Congressman Lawler. “While Israel has sought to defend itself and eliminate the threat posed by a nuclear Iran, The Ayataollah has shown himself to be a bloodthirsty dictator and his actions back up Iran’s consistent rhetoric that they want to wipe the state of Israel off the face of the earth.”

    “With hypersonic and ballistic missiles raining down on Tel-Aviv, Haifa, and across Israel, and with civilians hiding in shelters for days on end, it’s imperative that the United States stand by our staunch ally, Israel,” concluded Lawler. “I urge President Trump to continue working with Prime Minister Netanyahu, and to keep all options on the table for dealing with Iran.”

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

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Lawler, Chairman of the Middle East And North Africa Subcommittee, Strongly Condemns Indiscriminate Iranian Attack on Civilians

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

    Pearl River, NY – 6/16/2025… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler, the Chairman of the Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement condemning the targeting of innocent civilians in Israel by the extremist Iranian regime. More than 20 Israeli civilians have lost their lives in recent days due to the Iranian regime’s indiscriminate missile attacks.

    “I am outraged at how Iran has been conducting itself in this conflict – indiscriminately killing Jews and Arabs alike,” said Congressman Lawler. “While Israel has sought to defend itself and eliminate the threat posed by a nuclear Iran, The Ayataollah has shown himself to be a bloodthirsty dictator and his actions back up Iran’s consistent rhetoric that they want to wipe the state of Israel off the face of the earth.”

    “With hypersonic and ballistic missiles raining down on Tel-Aviv, Haifa, and across Israel, and with civilians hiding in shelters for days on end, it’s imperative that the United States stand by our staunch ally, Israel,” concluded Lawler. “I urge President Trump to continue working with Prime Minister Netanyahu, and to keep all options on the table for dealing with Iran.”

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

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Lawler Reacts to Senate’s Big Beautiful Bill Capping SALT at $10,000

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

    Pearl River, NY – 6/16/2025… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17), reacts to the draft release of the Senate version of the Big Beautiful Bill that passed the House on May 22, raising the SALT cap to $40,000 with an income limit. The Senate’s version, released today, would return the SALT Cap to $10,000.

    “I have been clear since Day one: sufficiently lifting the SALT Cap to deliver tax fairness to New Yorkers has been my top priority in Congress,” said Congressman Lawler. “After engaging in good faith negotiations, we were able to increase the cap on SALT from $10,000 to $40,000. That is the deal, and I will not accept a penny less. If the Senate reduces the SALT number, I will vote NO, and the bill will fail in the House.”

    “I, along with my fellow SALT Caucus members, are actively engaging with Senators, House Leadership, and the White House and am confident the deal as previously negotiated will be in the final bill that is signed into law,” concluded Congressman Lawler. 

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

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Lawler Reacts to Senate’s Big Beautiful Bill Capping SALT at $10,000

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

    Pearl River, NY – 6/16/2025… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17), reacts to the draft release of the Senate version of the Big Beautiful Bill that passed the House on May 22, raising the SALT cap to $40,000 with an income limit. The Senate’s version, released today, would return the SALT Cap to $10,000.

    “I have been clear since Day one: sufficiently lifting the SALT Cap to deliver tax fairness to New Yorkers has been my top priority in Congress,” said Congressman Lawler. “After engaging in good faith negotiations, we were able to increase the cap on SALT from $10,000 to $40,000. That is the deal, and I will not accept a penny less. If the Senate reduces the SALT number, I will vote NO, and the bill will fail in the House.”

    “I, along with my fellow SALT Caucus members, are actively engaging with Senators, House Leadership, and the White House and am confident the deal as previously negotiated will be in the final bill that is signed into law,” concluded Congressman Lawler. 

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

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Stansbury Fights for Expanded Access to Healthcare, More Providers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Melanie Stansbury (N.M.-01)

     WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) fought for expanded access to healthcare in rural and Indigenous communities during an Indian and Insular Affairs Subcommittee hearing.  

    Her bill, the IHS Provider Expansion Act, was reintroduced earlier in the month, and testimony about the legislation was heard during the subcommittee hearing.  

    Watch video of the hearing.  

    The legislation would establish an Office of Graduate Medical Education Programs within the Indian Health Service (IHS). This legislation would expand the existing IHS Residency Program, building from the Shiprock-University of New Mexico (SUNM) Family Medicine Residency which is the first in the nation.  

    “Access to healthcare should not be determined by history or geography,” said Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01). “The IHS Provider Expansion Act is a vital step towards ensuring that Native and Indigenous communities can access healthcare and grow the number of medical professionals serving Native communities. By investing in medical education within the Indian Health Service, we can help expand healthcare and bridge the gap in healthcare disparities that have persisted for far too long.” 

    Testifying about the importance of the legislation was Dr. Adriann Begay from the Navajo Nation HEAL Initiative. Dr. Begay is Tábaahi (Edge of the Water clan) and born for Bít’ahnii (Folded Arms People clan). Her maternal grandparents are Ta’néészahnii (Badlands People clan) and paternal grandparents are Tl’aashchí’í (Red Cheek People clan).  

    She completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Arizona; and received a medical degree from the University of North Dakota School of Medicine through the Indians into Medicine program. She completed her residency in Family Medicine at the University of Arizona and is a Diplomate of the American Board of Family Practice. Adriann worked for the Indian Health Service for 21 years initially at Salt River Clinic under Phoenix Indian Medical Center for 4 years as a primary care provider. Then at Gallup Indian Medical Center as an urgent care physician and administrator for 17 years. 

    Watch video of Dr. Begay’s testimony.  

    More about the bill and its impact:  

    In New Mexico, which is home to 23 Tribal Nations and a population that is nearly 12% Native, access to healthcare services is a pressing issue. Currently, IHS provides services in 37 states to about 2.2 million out of 3.7 million Indigenous people in the country.  

    This bill is projected to directly impact millions of people across the country served by the IHS to improve access to healthcare and medical professionals who understand the unique health challenges faced by Tribal communities.  

    By expanding access through IHS, this bill will also help to address the significant deficit of rural primary healthcare providers across the country. Recent data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services shows rural areas across the country face a significant deficit in primary care providers, with more than 80 million Americans living in Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs).   

    By expanding graduate medical education opportunities through IHS, we can expect an increase in the number of physicians willing to practice in these underserved regions.  

    Key Provisions of the Legislation:  

    • Establishment of the Office: The Secretary of Health makes permanent the Office of Graduate Medical Education Programs to oversee residency and fellowship initiatives within the IHS. 
    • Creating a Pipeline: The Office will facilitate opportunities for future healthcare professionals, paraprofessionals, and other health-related workers to engage in residency and fellowship programs. 
    • Oversight of Residency Programs: The Office will oversee existing residency and fellowship programs at IHS facilities and support the creation of additional programs aimed at recruiting and retaining healthcare professionals. 
    • Coordination with Academic Institutions: The Office will work in collaboration with academic institutions to strengthen educational ties and enhance training opportunities. 
    • Interagency Working Group: An interagency working group, involving various federal agencies, will assist in the implementation and sustainability of the Office, ensuring ongoing support and resources.  
    •  

    Read the bill here.  

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Stansbury Joins Bipartisan Resolution

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Melanie Stansbury (N.M.-01)

    ALBUQUERQUE — Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) issued the following statement:

    “The U.S. Constitution is clear: the authority to declare war sits solely with Congress. President Trump may not declare war or engage in offensive military action without the explicit consent of both the United States House of Representatives and Senate.

    Just in case they forgot — a bipartisan group of lawmakers, including myself, has joined a resolution to reaffirm our Congressional authority. Now is the time for diplomacy.”

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: Rep. Stansbury Fights for Veterans, VA, Opposes Trump Cuts to Vital Veteran Programs

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Melanie Stansbury (N.M.-01)

    ALBUQUERQUE — Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) joined New Mexico state lawmakers and community leaders for a veterans town hall to answer questions directly from veterans on issues that impact them in light of the Trump administration’s cuts to the VA, and attacks on our service members by Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth. 

    The Congresswoman joined New Mexico State Representative Debbie Sariñana (D-Albuquerque), New Mexico State Senator Harold Pope Jr. (D-Albuquerque), and U.S. Marine Corps veteran Frank Smith.

    Rep. Sariñana and Sen. Pope both served in the U.S. Air Force.

    Watch the video here. 

    “The most patriotic thing we can do is to resist,” said Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01). “The most patriotic thing we can do right now is to speak out. The most patriotic thing we can do is engage in acts of resistance and supporting our communities. And the most patriotic thing we can do is continue to serve our communities, to fight for our communities, and to fight for our democracy because we will win.” 

    Secretary Pete Hegseth has directed cuts aimed at what’s being labeled “wasteful” spending:

    • Over $580 million in contracts and programs have been canceled.
    • Major cuts include $1.8 billion from consulting contracts at the Defense Health Agency, $1.4 billion from cloud IT services, and $500 million from Navy business consulting.
    • Eleven contracts related to DEI, climate change, and COVID-19 were also terminated.
    • A $500 million DARPA help desk contract was cut due to duplication.
    • The Department of Defense is working with DOGE (Department of Government Efficiency), which has identified $800 million in additional spending to eliminate.
    • There are plans to in-source IT roles, shifting those duties to civilian staff. 

    The VA started aggressive contract reviews and program cuts: 

    • Effective May 1, the VA ended the Veterans Affairs Servicing Purchase (VASP) program, which had been the only available mortgage assistance tool for many at-risk veterans. This has increased the risk of foreclosure for thousands of veteran families.
    • VA has canceled 585 contracts worth $1.8 billion, redirecting about $900 million to healthcare and benefits. Most of the canceled contracts were described as non-mission critical, but some provided administrative or support services that may now fall back on already strained internal resources. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Pat Fallon Statement on US Strikes on Iran’s Nuclear Sites

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Pat Fallon (TX-04)

    “President Trump made the tough, but absolutely correct decision in the best interest of America’s national security to order strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites,” said Rep. Fallon.

    “These highly successful strikes, carried out by B-2 stealth bombers, have shown Iran, and near-pear adversaries such as Russia and China that when the U.S. military is called to act, it will do so with precision and utter lethality to accomplish its objectives. This was not some trivial task to destroy Iran’s nuclear enrichment facilities—the courage and training of the U.S. Air Force pilots who undertook these missions is exceptional and I thank them for their steadfast commitment to duty and excellence that is core to our military’s ethos.”

    Rep. Fallon continued, “President Trump has made clear for years that Iran cannot possess nuclear weapons under any circumstances. This past weekend’s strikes are a profound act of deterrence that signals not only to Iran, but to rogue states and bad actors on the world stage that the U.S. is fully committed to protecting our nation’s interests as well as restoring security for ourselves and our allies and partners.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Nick Langworthy’s Statement on U.S. Airstrikes on Iran Nuclear Sites

    Source: US Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23) released the following statement in response to President Donald Trump’s announcement of U.S. airstrikes on Iran nuclear sites.

     

    “Today, President Trump acted with strength and clarity to eliminate a grave threat to our nation, our allies, and the world. After Iran refused every diplomatic path and persisted in its dangerous pursuit of nuclear weapons, the President was left with no choice but to defend American interests and global security. 

    “We honor and salute the brave men and women of the United States military who executed this critical mission with precision, courage, and professionalism. By destroying Iran’s nuclear sites, President Trump demonstrated bold leadership, unshakable resolve, and an unwavering commitment to safeguarding our homeland and our allies. 

    “This action sends a unmistakable message: the United States will never tolerate a nuclear-armed Iran, and we will stand firm and unflinching against aggression and terror. 

    “I stand with the President and our heroic service members as they defend peace and protect the American people.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement From U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez on Strikes to Iranian Nuclear Sites

    Source: US Representative Gabe Vasquez’s (NM-02)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) issued the following statement in response to the recent U.S. military escalation in Iran:

    “Congress — not any one president — has the constitutional authority to declare war. Military escalation in Iran puts American troops, our allies, and global stability at great risk. The American people want peace, not another prolonged war.

     

    Acting unilaterally to toss aside years of diplomacy for military action is reckless and dangerous. This kind of unchecked executive action undermines our democratic institutions and sets a perilous precedent. I urge the president to bring us back from the brink of war and pursue a strategy grounded in strength, diplomacy, and lasting peace.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News in Brief: Navy Installations Now Require Visitors to Present Real ID to Gain Unescorted Access

    Source: United States Navy

    Visitors to U.S. Navy installations who do not possess a Department of Defense-issued Common Access Card (CAC) or a military dependent ID must present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, state-issued identification card, or U.S. passport to gain unescorted access.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Nine years since the UK voted by a narrow margin to leave the EU: we need to begin the process of returning, say Greens

    Source: Green Party of England and Wales

    / by Green Party

    On the ninth anniversary of the Brexit referendum, Ellie Chowns MP, Green Party spokesperson on foreign affairs, said:

    “Today marks nine years since the UK voted to leave the EU, a decision for which the costs have been painfully real for families, businesses and our planet. Over nearly a decade we have seen our economy shrink, exporters lose vital markets, and barriers impede the cultural collaborations we once took for granted. Meanwhile young people face restricted opportunities to live, learn, and work across Europe, and our climate ambitions are weakened by being out of step with our closest neighbours.

    “As Greens, we believe the best way to restore prosperity, protect the environment, and strengthen security is to rebuild the partnership we walked away from. Rejoining the EU would mean frictionless trade for British manufacturers and farmers, renewed freedom of movement for students and young workers, and deeper cooperation on climate, defence, and innovation. Poll after poll shows a majority of Britons recognise that Brexit was a mistake; the question now is when, not if, we begin the process of returning to the fold.

    “On this anniversary, I call on the government to show the courage to initiate talks on what re-entry to the EU would involve—recognising that the world has changed, but our mutual interests remain vital. Britain’s future belongs in Europe: let this day be a reminder that our greatest hope lies in cooperation, not isolation.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Green Party response to Government’s Industrial Strategy

    Source: Green Party of England and Wales

    by Green Party

    Responding to the government’s Industrial Strategy that was published today, co-leader of the Green Party, Carla Denyer MP, said:

    “This Industrial Strategy looks like another missed opportunity from the Labour government. The move away from polluting oil and gas towards clean power offers huge wins for communities, for workers and for industry – but that requires government to make a clear plan to urgently phase out fossil fuels, make polluting companies pay to retrain workers, and to harness the skills and innovation this country has in bucket loads.

    “The investment in skills announced in today’s strategy is welcome, and the move towards clean sources of power like wind and solar offers huge opportunities for good-quality jobs in futureproofed industries.

    “But the failure to make a plan for those currently working in high-carbon industries is short-sighted. 3 million workers across the UK will need re-skilling and retraining in order to make the most of the green jobs boom and fossil fuel giants must shoulder the cost of this.

    “We also need to see measures to ensure that all investment in the government’s GB Energy supports jobs and industries here in the UK rather than being lost overseas.

    “We have already seen decades of missed opportunities on this, leaving communities hollowed out and people forced out of work. This government must act fast to turn the corner and put Britain first in the race towards the economy of the future.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Jayapal Statement on Trump Administration’s Attempt to Limit Congressional Oversight of ICE Detention

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

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Ranking Member of the Immigration Integrity, Security, and Enforcement Subcommittee, released the following statement regarding recently announced guidance by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) limiting access to immigration detention facilities:

    “Today’s announcement is in direct violation of federal law and is just the latest attempt to undercut congressional oversight and dismantle all manner of oversight related to detention facilities – centers that too often have credible reports of inhumane treatment.

    “The idea that the administration is claiming that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Field Offices, where immigrants are being held for lengthy periods, are not considered a location that is ‘used to detain or otherwise house’ immigrants and therefore not subject to congressional oversight is absurd. It is our responsibility to do oversight of ICE’s enforcement, and these new policies will not stop us.

    “This is nothing but an attempt to hide the truth that President Trump lied to the American people when he promised to arrest and deport only the ‘worst of the worst.’ When I visited a detention facility just last month, the only detained people I was allowed to talk to were a woman who has been in this country for 20 years and was detained less than a week before she was to be married to a U.S. citizen; as well as a legal permanent resident, who has been here 31 years, is a proud member of the Machinists Union, and is married to a U.S. citizen with three U.S. citizen children.”

    Earlier this year, the Trump administration also terminated the DHS Office of Civil Rights and the Office of Immigration Detention Ombudsman crippling internal oversight of the Department.

    Appropriations language states: SEC. 527. (a) None of the funds appropriated or otherwise made available to the Department of Homeland Security by this Act may be used to prevent any of the following persons from entering, for the purpose of conducting oversight, any facility operated by or for the Department of Homeland Security used to detain or otherwise house aliens, or to make any temporary modification at any such facility that in any way alters what is observed by a visiting Member of Congress or such designated employee, compared to what would be observed in the absence of such modification:

    (1) A Member of Congress.

    (2) An employee of the United States House of Representatives or the United States Senate designated by such a Member for the purposes of this section.

    (b) Nothing in this section may be construed to require a Member of Congress to provide prior notice of the intent to enter a facility described in subsection (a) for the purpose of conducting oversight. 

    Issues: Immigration

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Rutherford Statement on U.S. Attacks on Nuclear Sites in Iran

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Rutherford (4th District of Florida)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Saturday, U.S. Congressman John H. Rutherford (FL-05) released the following statement on U.S. Armed Forces attacks on nuclear sites in Iran: 

    “I am fully behind President Trump and our Armed Forces in the action taken in self-defense, which precludes any need for an Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF). The President gave Iran every opportunity to make a deal for peace to end this long conflict, but they refused. This is what peace through strength looks like. The world is safer without the threat of a nuclear bomb in the hands of an Iranian regime.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Trahan Statement on Trump’s Unauthorized Military Strikes in Iran

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Lori Trahan (D-MA-03)

    LOWELL, MA — Today, Congresswoman Lori Trahan (MA-03) issued the following statement after President Donald Trump announced unauthorized U.S. military strikes in Iran:
    “I am deeply grateful that the American servicemembers who carried out this mission returned safely. Their professionalism, precision, and bravery are unmatched, and we owe them and their families a debt of gratitude for their unwavering commitment to our country.”
    “Absolutely no one wants to see the Iranian regime acquire nuclear weapons. That shared goal has guided years of bipartisan diplomatic and strategic engagement to prevent Iran from becoming a nuclear-armed state. President Trump’s decision to launch direct military strikes without congressional approval threatens to undermine those efforts and drag the United States into another costly, endless war in the Middle East.”
    “Acting without the consent of Congress, without a clear strategy, and without the backing of our allies puts American lives at risk and risks further destabilizing an already volatile region. It also flies in the face of the president’s campaign promise to de-escalate tensions in the Middle East, end the war in Gaza, and bring home the hostages still held by Hamas.”
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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Tourism Strategy Committee meets

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Tourism Strategy Committee, chaired by Secretary for Culture, Sports & Tourism Rosanna Law, held its fourth meeting today.

     

    During the meeting, representatives from Kai Tak Sports Park Limited and the Development Bureau briefed the committee on matters relating to the sports park, and the preliminary land use proposal for sites around Hung Hom Station and nearby waterfront areas.

     

    Members praised the sports park, highlighting that it has impressed visitors and boosted the tourism industry. They also put forward suggestions for optimising transportation and catering arrangements during mega events and for strengthening cross-sector collaboration with the tourism industry.

     

    Regarding the preliminary land use proposal for sites around Hung Hom Station and nearby waterfront areas, committee members remarked that given their location on Victoria Harbour, the waterfront areas are well-positioned for redevelopment into a new harbourfront landmark that can integrate leisure, entertainment, dining, retail, and water-friendly elements.

     

    Members agreed that the water body adjacent to the former Hung Hom Freight Yard should be put to use, and commented that the proposed world-class yacht berthing facilities could be integrated with land-based facilities for retail, dining and entertainment so as to promote yacht tourism. They also recommended that the Government provide space for land-side ancillary facilities to support the operation of the yacht berthing facilities.

     

    The bureau is currently consulting the public and stakeholders on the preliminary land use proposal, and the Government will take into account members’ recommendations and the feedback received during the consultation period when refining the proposal and finalising the development parameters. The target is to commence relevant statutory procedures in the second half of 2026.

     

    Separately, members exchanged views with Tourism Board representatives regarding the city’s latest tourism performance and statistics.

     

    For the first five months of 2025, Hong Kong had more than 20 million visitor arrivals, a 12% increase year on year. Among these visitors, about 15 million came from the Mainland, a 10% rise on the same period in 2024. Visitor arrivals from Japan, South Korea, the Philippines, Indonesia and Taiwan rose more than 25%. For Australia, growth of 35% was recorded.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –