Category: Economy

MIL-OSI USA: Crapo Supports RFK Jr. for HHS Secretary

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

Washington, D.C.–The United States Senate today confirmed Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to serve as Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) by a vote of 52-48. In a speech on the Senate floor, U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) spoke to Mr. Kennedy’s vision for HHS and his commitment to prioritizing consumer choice and transparency.

“When his nomination for the role of Secretary of HHS was announced, Mr. Kennedy stated, ‘We have a generational opportunity to bring together the greatest minds in science, medicine, industry, and government to put an end to the chronic disease epidemic. I agree with him. We have got to get into the business of making America healthy again,” said Crapo. “He will bring a fresh perspective to health care, prioritizing consumer choice, information transparency and early interventions to strengthen the well-being of all Americans. . . . I encourage my colleagues to support his nomination.”

Mr. Kennedy’s nomination was previously reported favorably out of the Senate Finance Committee by a bipartisan vote of 14 to 13.

Read Senator Crapo’s full remarks below:

“Thank you, Mr. President.

“I rise today in support of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s nomination to be Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and to urge my colleagues to vote in favor of his confirmation.

“Contrary to the attacks that have constantly been made on him, he has made it very clear that he will support safe vaccinations and just wants to see that research is done and done well.

“When his nomination for the role of Secretary of HHS was announced, Mr. Kennedy stated, ‘We have a generational opportunity to bring together the greatest minds in science, medicine, industry, and government to put an end to the chronic disease epidemic.’

“I agree with him. We have got to get into the business of making America healthy again.

“Mr. Kennedy’s dedication to this commitment has been apparent throughout his nomination process.

“He will bring a fresh perspective to health care, prioritizing consumer choice, information transparency and early interventions to strengthen the well-being of all Americans.

“He has been responsive to a wide variety of questions from Members on both sides of the aisle, appearing before two Committees and answering hundreds of questions for the record.

“Not to mention going through the extensive vetting process of the Finance Committee, which is the most extensive vetting process that any candidate for the Administration goes through in the Senate.

“While some of my colleagues continue to question his financial agreements, Mr. Kennedy met and then exceeded the requirements set forth by the Office of Government Ethics.

“I encourage a strong ‘yes’ vote for Robert F. Kennedy to be the next Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.”

MIL OSI USA News –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Crapo: Enough is Enough–It is Past Time to Get Our Fiscal House in Order

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee and senior member of the Senate Budget Committee, voted to advance the Fiscal Year 2025 Budget Resolution out of the Senate Budget Committee for full Senate consideration. The Resolution passed 11-10.

“By committing to paying for this ambitious agenda, Senate Republicans have said enough is enough with reckless fiscal policy. It is past time to get our fiscal house in order,” said Crapo. “It is time to stop the politics of fear, admit that we have got to control our spending and let us get on with trying to do the critical work of restoring our border security, restoring our national security and unleashing the energy potential of this country so we can again regain our preeminent posture as the strongest economy and strongest nation in this world.”

Click HERE or the image above to view Senator Crapo’s remarks.

Text of Crapo’s remarks, as prepared for delivery, is below:

“As part of its regular duties and to execute the mandate given to Republicans by the American voter, the Senate Budget Committee will mark up a budget resolution for Fiscal Year 2025. This is not the end; it is the beginning.

“On his first day in office in January 2021, President Joe Biden blew open the southern border by using executive authority to rescind a number of successful Trump Administration policies. His open border policies brought more than 10 million illegal immigrants into our country. President Biden failed to uphold the law with regard to border security. While President Trump has reinstated many of these important policies through executive order, the Fiscal Year 2025 Budget Resolution implements lasting security for American citizens.

“Additionally, this resolution restores America’s military power to counteract Russia, China and other adversaries around the world. This work, combined with President Trump’s ‘America First’ foreign policy, will keep America the preeminent global power and shore up our national defense.

“To begin the process of returning to fiscal sensibility, the Finance Committee’s instruction in this budget unlocks our ability to reverse a specific costly rule from the prior Administration that threatens patients’ access to long-term care in rural communities. Not only will this effort provide savings for our shared priorities in this legislation, but it will also serve as a commitment to reform our broken health care system, which too often relies on ineffective structures that fail patients, providers and taxpayers.

“I want to make it clear that if we receive this instruction, the Finance Committee’s focus will be on this single provision, not on opening up the tax bill or other issues or other efforts to try to reform other parts of our health care system. I will do my best to keep us focused on this provision with this instruction.

“Finally, by committing to paying for this ambitious agenda, Senate Republicans have said enough is enough with reckless fiscal policy. It is past time to get our fiscal house in order. While more will be necessary to bring America back to living within its means, this resolution is a superb first step.

“It is very obvious the criticisms of what we are trying to do, once again, rely on the politics of fear. Saying that we are going to hurt every single person in America except ‘those rich people’ and claiming that we want to give tax cuts to the wealthy.

“The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act that was referenced already has a $2.6 trillion impact on people making less than $400,000 per year. The vast majority we are talking about are not the wealthy, but those in our middle- and lower-income brackets, and our pass-through entities, or small businesses, across this country.

“It is time to stop the politics of fear, admit that we have got to control our spending and let us get on with trying to do the critical work of restoring our border security, restoring our national security and unleashing the energy potential of this country so we can again regain our preeminent posture as the strongest economy and strongest nation in this world.”

MIL OSI USA News –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Crapo Advocates for Small Businesses in Federal Contracting

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) joined Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho) to introduce the Simplifying Subcontracting Act to reduce complexity in federal government contracting and help more small businesses and entrepreneurs pursue contracts.

“Qualified small businesses and entrepreneurs deserve the same access to federal government contracts as larger entities that currently dominate the contracting market,” said Crapo. “Simplified, clearer language will improve their access to the federal contracting application process.”

“Small businesses are vital to our economy but are often left out in federal government contracting due to overly complicated, bureaucratic language,” said Risch. “The Simplifying Subcontracting Act requires certain federal government contracts to use plain language, enabling more small businesses to compete for these contracts.”

The Simplifying Subcontracting Act, true to its name, is a simple, one-page bill that would require federal government contracts to use straightforward language when subcontracting work is given to small businesses. This legislation mirrors the Plain Writing Act of 2010.

Additional co-sponsors include U.S. Senators John Kennedy (R-Louisiana), Todd Young (R-Indiana) and John Hickenlooper (D-Colorado).

The Idaho Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs), Idaho Veteran Entrepreneurship Alliance and American Subcontractors Association support the bill.

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MIL OSI USA News –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI: EzFill Holdings Announces Pricing of $15 Million Public Offering and Closing of Share Exchange with NextNRG

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

MIAMI, Feb. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — EzFill Holdings, Inc. (“EzFill” and the “Company”) (Nasdaq: EZFL), a leading mobile fueling company, today announced the pricing of a public offering of 5,000,000 shares of common stock at a price to the public of $3.00 per share, for gross proceeds of $15,000,000, before deducting underwriting discounts and offering expenses. In addition, EzFill has granted the underwriters a 45-day option to purchase up to an additional 750,000 shares of common stock to cover over-allotments, if any.

EzFill today also announced the closing of its previously announced share exchange agreement with NextNRG Holding Corp. Effective February 14, 2025, the Company will change its name from “EzFill Holdings, Inc.” to “NextNRG, Inc.” The Company’s common stock will cease trading under the ticker symbol “EZFL” and begin trading on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the ticker symbol “NXXT” and the new CUSIP number 652941105 as of the commencement of trading on February 14, 2025. The offering is expected to close on February 18, 2025, subject to satisfaction of customary closing conditions.

The Company intends to use the proceeds to expand its business, repay outstanding indebtedness, and general corporate purposes, including working capital.

ThinkEquity is acting as sole book-runner for the offering.

Anthony, Linder & Cacomanolis, PLLC is acting as legal counsel to EzFill and Loeb & Loeb LLP is acting as legal counsel to ThinkEquity in connection with the offering.

A registration statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-275761) relating to the shares was filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and a post-effective amendment thereto became effective on February 13, 2025. This offering is being made only by means of a prospectus. Copies of the final prospectus, when available, may be obtained from ThinkEquity, 17 State Street, 41^st Floor, New York, New York 10004. The final prospectus will be filed with the SEC and will be available on the SEC’s website located at http://www.sec.gov.

This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

About NextNRG, Inc. (f/k/a EzFill Holdings, Inc.)
NextNRG Holding Corp. (NextNRG) and EzFill have merged to form a combined entity focused on renewable energy, mobile fueling, and next-generation energy infrastructure. By leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) technologies, NextNRG is developing an integrated ecosystem that combines solar energy generation, battery storage, wireless electric vehicle (EV) charging, and on-demand fuel delivery.

At the core of NextNRG’s strategy is the deployment of NextNRG Smart Microgrids, which utilize AI-driven energy management alongside solar power and battery storage to enhance energy efficiency, reduce costs, and improve grid resiliency. These microgrids are designed to serve commercial properties, schools, hospitals, nursing homes, parking garages, rural and tribal lands, recreational facilities, and government properties, expanding energy accessibility while supporting decarbonization initiatives.

Following the merger with EzFill, NextNRG is integrating sustainable energy solutions into mobile fueling operations. The company will provide renewable energy to its fueling partners, supporting more efficient fuel delivery while advancing clean energy adoption. It continues to expand its growing fleet of fuel delivery trucks and national footprint, including the acquisition of Yoshi Mobility’s fuel division, further solidifying its position as a leader in the on-demand fueling industry.

By combining renewable energy innovation with mobile fueling expertise, NextNRG is building a sustainable energy ecosystem that bridges traditional fuel needs with AI-powered clean energy solutions.

The combined entity, NextNRG, will trade under the symbol NXXT on the Nasdaq Capital Market. To find out more visit NextNRG.com.

Forward Looking Statements

This press release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements include statements regarding, among other things, EzFill’s expectations regarding the completion, timing and size of the proposed offering, EzFill’s expectations with respect to granting the underwriters a 45-day option to purchase additional shares and EzFill’s anticipated use of the net proceeds from the proposed offering. Any statement describing EzFill’s goals, expectations, financial or other projections, intentions, or beliefs is a forward-looking statement and should be considered an at-risk statement. Words such as “expect,” “intends,” “will,” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Such statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, those related to EzFill’s business and macroeconomic and geopolitical events. These and other risks are described in the prospectus related to the proposed offering to be filed with the SEC. EzFill’s forward-looking statements involve assumptions that, if they never materialize or prove correct, could cause its results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Although EzFill’s forward-looking statements reflect the good faith judgment of its management, these statements are based only on facts and factors currently known by EzFill. Except as required by law, EzFill undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements for any reason. As a result, you are cautioned not to rely on these forward-looking statements.

Investor Relations Contact:

Jeff Ramson, CEO
PCG Advisory, Inc.
jramson@pcgadvisory.com

The MIL Network –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Merkley, Wyden Raise the Alarm Over NIH Funding Cuts that Derail Lifesaving Research, Cost Lives and Jobs in Oregon

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)
February 13, 2025
Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden joined an effort led by Washington State’s U.S. Senator Patty Murray in expressing serious alarm over the Trump Administration’s threats to cut the National Institutes of Health’s (NIH) federal funding to research universities?and institutions across America and in Oregon, including groundbreaking medical and health research being done at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), University of Oregon (UO), Oregon State University (OSU), Portland State University (PSU), and many others in the state.
As the largest public funder of biomedical research in the world, NIH plays a critical role in sustaining the research infrastructure necessary for scientific breakthroughs, infectious disease prevention, and medical technology innovation. The cuts would set us back generations in finding lifesaving cures and treatments to illnesses such as Alzheimer’s, cancer, and Parkinson’s, and stopping medical trials would cost lives.
Additionally, the Trump Administration’s NIH funding cuts could cost the U.S. economy billions of dollars and threaten the livelihoods of hundreds of thousands of workers. Nationally, NIH research supported more than 412,000 jobs and fueled nearly $93 billion in new economic activity in Fiscal Year 2023, while costing less than 1 percent of the federal budget. In Oregon, NIH invested $417 million, which directly supported more than 5,000 jobs and nearly a billion dollars in economic activity, and indirectly supported over 17,000 jobs in Oregon’s broader bioscience economy.
The entire Democratic caucus sent the letter to U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. urgently detailing how these steps the Trump Administration is taking would have a catastrophic impact on research institutions and our economy.
“The Trump Administration has left researchers, universities, and health systems with great uncertainty about whether they can continue to support entire research programs and patient clinical trials across the country. Institutions and grantees nationwide are dealing with an unprecedented external communications “pause” enacted by new leadership at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the lack of transparency regarding the Administration’s illegal funding freeze, and the uncertainty of how new Executive Orders would be applied to their critical work. These actions resulted in NIH freezing grant reviews and cancelling advisory meetings, delaying critical funding that scientists need to continue advancing new cures and treatments. These disruptions do not just slow research—they cost lives,” the Senators wrote.
Last week, the NIH announced it would set the maximum reimbursement rate for indirect costs to 15 percent—creating a serious funding shortfall for research institutions of all types across the country. This move won’t produce cost savings—it will just shift costs to states that can’t afford to pay the difference. Importantly, this action by the Trump administration is illegal—Congress’ bipartisan Labor-HHS-Education Appropriations Bill prohibits modifications to NIH’s indirect costs.
“This change to NIH’s indirect cost rate represents an indiscriminate funding cut that will be nothing short of catastrophic for the lifesaving research that patients and families are counting on. The Administration’s new policy means that research will come to a halt, sick kids may not get the treatment they need, and clinical trials may shut down abruptly,” the Senators continued.
On Monday, a federal judge in Boston temporarily blocked the NIH rate cut and set a hearing for February 21st, but the Senators are pressing the administration to abandon the proposed cuts full stop.
“Our standing as a world leader in funding and producing new medical and scientific innovations has been put at risk by these recent actions from the Trump Administration. We urge you to stop playing political games with the lifesaving work of the NIH and to allow NIH research to continue uninterrupted,” the Senators concluded.
Merkley and Wyden signed the letter led by Murray alongside the entire Senate Democratic caucus: Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chris Coons (D-DE), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), John Fetterman (D-PA), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Angus King (I-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Ed Markey (D-MA), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Mark Warner (D-VA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI).
The letter is available HERE and the full text is below.
Dear Secretary Kennedy,
We write to express our serious concern with the Trump Administration’s recent decisions that threaten to undermine the nation’s biomedical research infrastructure and set us back generations. The steps the Trump Administration has taken will create a serious funding shortfall for research institutions nationwide, threaten to undermine progress on lifesaving scientific advancements, could cost the U.S. economy billions of dollars, and threaten the livelihoods of hundreds of thousands of workers.
As the largest public funder of biomedical research in the world, NIH plays a critical role in sustaining the research infrastructure necessary for scientific breakthroughs in cancer treatment, infectious disease prevention, and medical technology innovation, among many others. President Trump has wreaked havoc on the nation’s biomedical research system in recent weeks. In his first several days in office, President Trump imposed a hiring freeze, communications freeze, ban on travel, and cancellation of grant review and advisory panels that are necessary to advance research. While some of these efforts have been reversed, they continue to cause confusion and miscommunication among researchers and recipients of NIH funds.
Just last week, NIH announced an illegal plan to cap indirect cost rates that research institutions rely on. In capping indirect cost rates at 15 percent for NIH-funded grants, this policy would cut funding essential for conducting research, such as operating and maintaining laboratories, equipment, and research facilities. This change to NIH’s indirect cost rate represents an indiscriminate funding cut that will be nothing short of catastrophic for the lifesaving research that patients and families are counting on. The Administration’s new policy means that research will come to a halt, sick kids may not get the treatment they need, and clinical trials may shut down abruptly.
These confusing and harmful policy changes threaten patient safety. The strength of the American research enterprise – recognized as the best in the world – is built on Congress’ bipartisan commitment to supporting essential research infrastructure. This funding, which Congress has long appropriated on a bipartisan basis, fuels groundbreaking medical discoveries and cements the United States’ position as the global leader in biomedical research.
In addition to the stifling impact on discovering new cures and ripping away treatment from those who need it, changes to NIH policy and communications threaten jobs in all 50 states and the District of Columbia, with everyone from custodians, to research trainees, to scientists facing potential layoffs. NIH research supported more than 412,000 jobs and fueled nearly $93 billion in new economic activity in Fiscal Year 2023. Every dollar the NIH invests in research generates almost $2.50 in economic activity. These reckless policy changes not only threaten biomedical innovation and research, but also the livelihoods of thousands of workers in every state across the nation.
The Trump Administration has left researchers, universities, and health systems with great uncertainty about whether they can continue to support entire research programs and patient clinical trials across the country. Institutions and grantees nationwide are dealing with an unprecedented external communications “pause” enacted by new leadership at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the lack of transparency regarding the Administration’s illegal funding freeze, and the uncertainty of how new Executive Orders would be applied to their critical work. These actions resulted in NIH freezing grant reviews and cancelling advisory meetings, delaying critical funding that scientists need to continue advancing new cures and treatments. These disruptions do not just slow research – they cost lives.
The NIH plays a critical role in our nation’s efforts to fund scientific advancements that improve health and save lives. Our standing as a world leader in funding and producing new medical and scientific innovations has been put at risk by these recent actions from the Trump Administration. We urge you to stop playing political games with the lifesaving work of the NIH and to allow NIH research to continue uninterrupted.
Sincerely,

MIL OSI USA News –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Call to help Scots reunite with loved ones

Source: Scottish Government

Equalities Minister calls on UK Government to change family visa rules.

Changes to the UK Family Visa Route would support the wellbeing of married couples and families by helping them reunite in Scotland, according to a new Scottish Government report.

Under current rules, people living in the UK need to earn a minimum of £29,000 to bring an immediate family member from abroad to live here.

Planned increases to this threshold were paused in July 2024 by the UK Government, which is currently seeking views on whether the requirements should continue in their current form.

The Scottish Government report sets out evidence that the minimum salary requirement does not support Scotland’s interests, and disproportionately impacts women and part-time workers.

Equalities Minister Kaukab Stewart said:

“This Valentine’s Day, I am calling on the UK Government to make the changes needed so that couples and families who do not meet the current financial requirements can be reunited.

“People who live in Scotland should be able to build a life with their spouse and raise children here – wherever in the world their husband or wife is from. Allowing more people to bring their families to live here would enrich communities, support public services and contribute to the economy.

“The UK Government’s review of the income threshold is welcome, and the Scottish Government is clear that the minimum income threshold needs to be reduced or removed altogether to allow more families to build their lives here in Scotland.”

Sarah Douglas is from the Scottish Borders. She is currently living in Perugia, Italy with her husband and their three children. Sarah would like to return to Scotland with her family, however due to the minimum income requirement, they are unable to move to the UK.

Sarah said:

“The minimum income requirement is currently preventing me from living in Scotland with my Italian husband. As a mother to three young children meeting the threshold is challenging especially since I’m expected to do so whilst being separated from my husband and caring for my children alone.

“I am faced with a choice between separating my family or permanent exile. It is a cruel policy which places unnecessary emotional and financial strain on families. A new policy should be implemented to ensure that families like mine can stay together.”

Demi Kara is from Edinburgh. She married her husband, who is from Adana, Turkey, in 2024. Due to the minimum income requirement, the couple are currently living separately in Scotland and Turkey.

Demi said:

“A price on love seems very much unfair. Younger long distance couples have no chance in this generation – you pay the price and put your life on hold, or you leave, it’s as simple as that.

“I put my degree on hold to fight for my husband to be by my side – a basic right every person should have. A change the minimum income requirement would allow my life to be whole, allow my heart to be full of love and not broken and torn between two countries.”

Background

In April 2024 the salary threshold for someone to bring an immediate family member to the UK was raised to £29,000, with a further raise to £34,000 scheduled for later 2024. In July 2024 the threshold was paused at £29,000, and the Migration Advisory Committee were commissioned by UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper to review the financial requirements of the family visa.

In December 2024, the Scottish Government responded to the Migration Advisory Committee’s call for evidence, expressing its belief that the UK Government should look to reduce or remove the financial requirements.

The Scottish Government’s response will be published online on Friday 14 February. A pdf version of the response is available on request.

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI China: China’s consumption boom presents opportunities for all countries: foreign ministry

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

China’s consumption boom presents opportunities for all countries: foreign ministry

BEIJING, Feb. 13 — China’s supersized consumption market provides enormous cooperation opportunities for countries around the world, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said on Thursday.

Spokesperson Guo Jiakun made the remarks when asked to comment on 2025 economic outlooks released by many global financial institutions, which suggest that China’s high-quality development is gradually yielding fruits, and they expect higher proportions for consumption and the service sector.

Guo said that during the Spring Festival of the Year of the Snake, China witnessed a burgeoning consumption market with record-setting sales revenues in “Guochao,” or trendy merchandise inspired by traditional Chinese culture, intangible cultural heritage experience, ice and snow economy, and consumer goods trade-in programs. New consumption models kept emerging driven by digital transition and technological development.

“We saw strong supply and demand of imported products on the Spring Festival shopping lists. More Chinese people went abroad and more foreign travelers visited China,” he said.

The prosperity of China’s consumer market signifies not only a recovery in demand but also improved confidence in China’s economic development, he said.

Guo added that with a package of incremental policies being rolled out and implemented, China will inject stronger confidence and impetus to global economic growth through its high-quality development and high-standard opening up.

MIL OSI China News –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Five best articles in Russian for 13.02.2025

MIL Analysis: Here are the top five Russian language articles published today. The analysis consists of five articles that are prioritized at the moment.

In today’s analysis, trends such as trust and consumer protection are highlighted.

In addition, counterfeiting for 2024 is summarized.

Education and social services are increasingly evolving and providing new opportunities to teach science to young people. Also, NSU CII staff is focusing on urban infrastructure in the form of new solutions using AI.

Ethiopian master’s student Yared Dejene Jifar told in an interview why he decided to study in Russia.

You can read one of the articles below.

1. Financial News: Good faith behavior is a pledge of confidence in the financial market.

The Bank of Russia has defined the basic principles of good behavior on the financial market. They are aimed at promoting business and ethical standards, creating a trusting environment and protecting the rights and interests of consumers.

2. Financial news: Counterfeit rubles have become less common in Russia: 2024 results.

In 2024, the level of counterfeiting reached its lowest value in recent years: 1 counterfeit per 1 million banknotes in circulation. A total of 8,240 pieces of counterfeit Russian banknotes and coins were detected in the banking system.

3. The National Research University Higher School of Economics discussed tools of academic development and ways to involve young people in science.

Higher School of Economics – The round table “Academic Development in the University Today and Tomorrow” was held. The participants discussed the tools of academic development used in various subject areas and ways to involve young people in science, one of which is holding regular scientific seminars. The best practices of Vyshka’s divisions were presented.

4. How to fix defects in urban infrastructure with the help of artificial intelligence, NSU scientists came up with.

Employees of the Novosibirsk State University Artificial Intelligence Center (NSU AIC) received a patent for a utility model of an electronic computing device for detecting defects in urban infrastructure and making decisions on their elimination.

5. Ethiopian Master’s student Yared Dejene Jifar: “I dreamed of studying in Russia”.

Ethiopian master’s student Yared Dejene Jifar earned a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Adams Science and Technology University (ASTU). Inspired by stories of friendship between the countries, he decided to continue his studies in Russia. In the interview, Yared talked about the adjustment process in a different country and shared his plans for the future.

Learn more about MIL’s content and data services by visiting milnz.co.nz.

Regards MIL!

MIL OSI Russia News –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Māori tourism driving economic growth

Source: New Zealand Government

Māori tourism now contributes more than $1 billion a year to economic growth, boosting jobs and incomes across the country, Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka says.
Released today at Te Pā Tū, the tourism business of Tauhara North No. 2 Trust near Rotorua, the Value of Māori Tourism report shows Māori tourism businesses contributed $1.2 billion in 2023, up from $975 million in 2018.
In 2023 there were 3,595 Māori tourism businesses operating in core and general tourism industries, collectively employing over 15,000 people.
“The report, commissioned by NZ Māori Tourism and prepared by Business and Economic Research Limited (BERL), shows Māori tourism is an increasingly formidable part of the engine driving our country’s economic growth,” Mr Potaka says.
“It creates jobs, fosters entrepreneurship, and provides a platform for Māori experiences, arts, and crafts. This economic empowerment contributes to the cultural revival, preservation, and self-determination of Māori.
“As an example, Minister of Tourism Louise Upston and I recently visited businesses in Te Tai Tokerau and it was fantastic to see how they prioritise their communities and people as part of continuing to develop the local industry,” Mr Potaka says.
Louise Upston said Māori tourism clearly had a very bright future.
“Our visits in Te Tai Tokerau reinforced to me the passion and commitment of providers there and in other regions. I want to be able to do more to support them and the jobs they create for New Zealanders.
“This Government absolutely understands the significant contribution tourism makes to our country’s economy, and as part of unleashing economic growth in 2025 and beyond, we are committed to supporting it to reach its full potential.
“Māori providers will play a big part in attracting international tourists who want to learn more about our country, our people and our culture.”
Tama Potaka said Māori tourism represented a total package.
“The report states that Māori tourism operators put people before profits. Higher salaries paid to employees, and the average salaries of Māori tourism businesses also tend to be higher than in non-Māori tourism businesses.
“Māori tourism thrives on the relationship between Māori, manuhiri, and the whenua, embodying manaakitanga and kaitiakitanga.
“It sets Aotearoa New Zealand apart from others and is our great point of difference.”

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI: Annature partners with Collins SBA to provide integrated eSigning solution

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

BRISBANE, Australia, Feb. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Australian eSigning innovator Annature today announced a significant partnership with Hobart-based accounting, financial planning and business coaching firm Collins SBA. This partnership sees Annature’s industry-leading eSigning and identity verification solutions integrated into the tech stack for Collins SBA’s custom Salesforce functionality.

Having dramatically improved their own internal procedures, Collins SBA is now offering this capability to other partner firms as an innovative Shared Services Centre. By centralising core functions like technology, HR, compliance, financial management, and marketing, the Shared Services Centre provides partner firms with the ready-built tools and capabilities to scale effectively and maximise high-value time.

As one of 12 custom integrations chosen for the Salesforce implementation, Collins SBA cited Annature’s clearly designed and documented API, flexible integration capability and affordable pricing structure. Annature is also fully integrated with SharePoint within the Shared Services Centre, resulting in a superior experience for the firm’s internal team, clients and other partners who adopt the technology.

In transitioning from their previous provider Docusign to Annature, Collins SBA has saved 78% per annum in eSigning costs, while sending 250 envelopes for internal and external eSigning each month. Annature’s on-shore support team was readily available to migrate the firm quickly and efficiently over from Docusign before its contract expired.

“In transitioning to Annature, we’ve won on every front in terms of client and team member experience, while also benefiting from their flexibility and fair pricing,” said Collins SBA Head of Technology Patrick Gardner. “Annature made the migration seamless, and we’ve found we’re using eSigning more, as it is so much easier and simpler than the Docusign experience. We believe Annature has the best and most adaptable solutions for our needs, and we’re very proud to partner with such a trusted Australian success story.”

Gardner also highlighted Annature’s key role in the Shared Services Centre, including its trusted status with other external product providers and platforms, such as Netwealth, and the value of its identity verification technology for accounting firms to verify customers.

“As an integrated accounting and financial planning firm, we only need to do the identity verification once, which reduces the burden on the client,” explained Gardner. “What’s most impactful is that we now have a ‘day one’ solution for when a new firm comes on-board the Shared Services Centre, with Annature as a core component.”

“We’re thrilled to partner with Collins SBA, as we share a passion for innovation that improves the client experience,” said Annature founder and CEO Corey Cacic. “We immediately saw the value that Annature’s eSigning and identity verification solutions could bring to the Shared Services Centre. We look forward to other firms using what Collins SBA has built to streamline their processes, automate core functions and fuel their growth.”

Contact information:
Corey Cacic
corey@annature.com.au

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f1aab4a8-5df2-4c7e-8449-f4de446eab77

The MIL Network –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Tackling AI security risks to unleash growth and deliver Plan for Change
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

UK’s AI Safety Institute becomes ‘UK AI Security Institute’.
UK’s AI Safety Institute becomes ‘UK AI Security Institute’ – strengthening protections against the risks AI poses to national security and crime

Institute bolstered by new criminal misuse team, partnering with the Home Office, to research a range of crime and security issues which could harm UK citizens

New agreement reached with AI giant Anthropic on AI opportunities to help grow the economy as part of our Plan for Change

Safeguarding Britain’s national security – a key pillar of the government’s Plan for Change – and protecting citizens from crime – will become founding principles of the UK’s approach to the responsible development of artificial intelligence from today (Friday 14 February), as the Technology Secretary sets out his vision for a revitalised AI Security Institute in Munich.

Speaking at the Munich Security Conference and just days after the conclusion of the AI Action Summit in Paris, Peter Kyle has today recast the AI Safety Institute the ‘AI Security Institute’. This new name will reflect its focus on serious AI risks with security implications, such as how the technology can be used to develop chemical and biological weapons, how it can be used to carry out cyber-attacks, and enable crimes such as fraud and child sexual abuse.

The Institute will also partner across government, including with the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, the Ministry of Defence’s science and technology organisation, to assess the risks posed by frontier AI.

As part of this update, the Institute will also launch a new criminal misuse team which will work jointly with the Home Office to conduct research on a range of crime and security issues which threaten to harm British citizens. 

One such area of focus will be the use of AI to make child sexual abuse images, with this new team exploring methods to help to prevent abusers from harnessing the technology to carry out their appalling crimes. This will support work announced earlier this month to make it illegal to own AI tools which have been optimised to make images of child sexual abuse.  

This means the focus of the Institute will be clearer than ever. It will not focus on bias or freedom of speech, but on advancing our understanding of the most serious risks posed by the technology to build up a scientific basis of evidence which will help policymakers to keep the country safe as AI develops. To achieve this, the Institute will work alongside wider government, the Laboratory for AI Security Research (LASR), and the national security community; including building on the expertise of the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), the UK’s national technical authority for cyber security, including AI.

The announcement comes just weeks after the government set out its new blueprint for AI to deliver a decade of national renewal, harnessing the technology to deliver on the Plan for Change. A revitalised AI Security Institute will ensure we boost public confidence in AI and drive its uptake across the economy so we can unleash the economic growth that will put more money in people’s pockets.

Secretary of State for Science, Innovation, and Technology, Peter Kyle said:

The changes I’m announcing today represent the logical next step in how we approach responsible AI development – helping us to unleash AI and grow the economy as part of our Plan for Change.

The work of the AI Security Institute won’t change, but this renewed focus will ensure our citizens – and those of our allies – are protected from those who would look to use AI against our institutions, democratic values, and way of life.

The main job of any government is ensuring its citizens are safe and protected, and I’m confident the expertise our Institute will be able to bring to bear will ensure the UK is in a stronger position than ever to tackle the threat of those who would look to use this technology against us.

As the AI Security Institute bolsters its security focus, the Technology Secretary is also taking the wraps off a new agreement which has been struck between the UK and AI company Anthropic.

This partnership is the work of the UK’s new Sovereign AI unit, and will see both sides working closely together to realise the technology’s opportunities, with a continued focus on the responsible development and deployment of AI systems.

This will include sharing insights on how AI can transform public services and improve the lives of citizens, as well as using this transformative technology to drive new scientific breakthroughs. The UK will also look to secure further agreements with leading AI companies as a key step towards turbocharging productivity and speaking fresh economic growth – a key pillar of the government’s Plan for Change.

Chair of the AI Security Institute Ian Hogarth said:

The Institute’s focus from the start has been on security and we’ve built a team of scientists focused on evaluating serious risks to the public.

Our new criminal misuse team and deepening partnership with the national security community mark the next stage of tackling those risks.

Dario Amodei, CEO and co-founder of Anthropic said:

AI has the potential to transform how governments serve their citizens. We look forward to exploring how Anthropic’s AI assistant Claude could help UK government agencies enhance public services, with the goal of discovering new ways to make vital information and services more efficient and accessible to UK residents.

We will continue to work closely with the UK AI Security Institute to research and evaluate AI capabilities in order to ensure secure deployment.

Today’s reset for the AI Security Institute comes just weeks after the UK government kickstarted the year by setting out a new blueprint for AI to spark a decade of national renewal.

Thanks to the work of the Institute, the UK now stands ready to fully realise the benefits of the technology while bolstering our national security as we continue to harness the age of AI.

Further Information:

The agreement between the UK and Anthropic on AI opportunities.

DSIT media enquiries

Email press@dsit.gov.uk

Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 6pm 020 7215 300

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Published 14 February 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: First locally developed course established under First Nation School Board

First locally developed course established under First Nation School Board
jlutz
February 13, 2025 – 3:10 pm

This is a joint news release between the Government of Yukon and the First Nation School Board.

Together, the Government of Yukon and First Nation School Board take this moment to hold up the educators and school community in Dakwäkäda where Food Sovereignty 12, an enriching and empowering locally developed high school curricula, has been approved by the Minister of Education, the Chairs of the First Nation School Board and the St. Elias Community School Community Committee.

The goal of Food Sovereignty 12 is to deepen students’ comprehension of the food chain and its significant influence on the availability, cost and accessibility of produce, especially in northern regions grappling with challenges such as unpredictable weather patterns, access to First Nations traditional harvesting areas, reliance on food imports and limited local food production.

Through an examination of the principles of food sovereignty, global economics and climate change considerations, the course endeavours to equip students with the knowledge and competencies needed to tackle food insecurity and advocate for sustainable, First Nations inclusive, community-driven solutions for long-term food provision.

Together, educators Albert Oriol Surroca and Kàłxʼòkw Leger combined local, historical and scientific knowledge with an experiential approach, to develop a cohesive and connective study of food systems and community health. Spanning diverse curricular competencies including economics and transportation, First Nations empowerment and resilience and ecological studies, the 100–120 hours of instruction engage Grade 12 learners in the important work of climate change and food security. Once completed, learners earn a total of four high school credits.

MIL OSI Canada News –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Trump signs plan to impose ‘reciprocal’ tariffs on trading partners

Source: China State Council Information Office

U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday signed a memorandum directing his administration to determine “the equivalent of a reciprocal tariff with respect to each foreign trading partner.”

“I have decided for purposes of fairness, that I will charge a reciprocal tariff – meaning whatever countries charge the United States of America, we will charge them no more, no less. In other words, they charge us a tax or tariff and we charge them the exact same tax or tariff. Very simple,” Trump said at the White House.

U.S. President Donald Trump speaks during a press conference at the White House in Washington, D.C., the United States, Feb. 4, 2025. (Xinhua/Hu Yousong)

According to the memorandum, “it is the policy of the United States to reduce our large and persistent annual trade deficit in goods and to address other unfair and unbalanced aspects of our trade with foreign trading partners.”

Under the so-called “Fair and Reciprocal Plan,” the administration will work “strenuously” to counter non-reciprocal trading arrangements with trading partners by determining the equivalent of a reciprocal tariff with respect to each foreign trading partner. “This approach will be of comprehensive scope, examining non-reciprocal trade relationships with all United States trading partners,” it said.

Under World Trade Organization (WTO) negotiations, “reciprocity” meant overall balance, in terms of concessions given and concessions received, between each country on the one hand and all its trading partners on the other hand, but Trump has redefined the meaning of “reciprocity” to apply on a line item basis, country by country, rather than overall balance, Gary Clyde Hufbauer, a nonresident senior fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics, told Xinhua.

“With reciprocity, as defined by Trump, U.S. tariffs would probably on average 10 to 15 percentage points higher. In my opinion, tariffs actually hurt the U.S. economy, so while they would raise revenue … they would reduce GDP growth,” Hufbauer said.

Observers believe that this logic undermines the traditional principle of overall balance under the WTO framework, potentially leading to trade frictions and negotiation deadlocks, and prompting other countries to take countermeasures in response to U.S. tariff increases.

MIL OSI China News –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray Leads Entire Democratic Caucus in Raising Alarm Over Trump Admin Pushing Illegal Indiscriminate Funding Cuts to NIH, Derailing Lifesaving Research

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

ICYMI: Senator Murray Slams Indirect Cost Rate for NIH as Massive Indiscriminate Cut, Setting Back Progress on Lifesaving Research

NIH research supported more than 412,000 jobs and fueled nearly $93 billion in new economic activity in Fiscal Year 2023

Washington state receives $1.29 billion in NIH funding that supports nearly 12,000 jobs and nearly $3 billion in economic activity; STATE BY STATE analysis HERE of total NIH funding, jobs supported, and economic activity supported through NIH research

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee and a senior member and former Chair of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, led the entire Senate Democratic Caucus in sending a letter to U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. expressing serious alarm over the Trump Administration’s recent decisions that threaten to undermine America’s biomedical research infrastructure and set us back generations. The steps the Trump administration has taken would create a serious funding shortfall for research institutions nationwide, threaten to undermine progress on lifesaving scientific advancements, and could cost the U.S. economy billions of dollars and threaten the livelihoods of hundreds of thousands of workers.

“As the largest public funder of biomedical research in the world, NIH plays a critical role in sustaining the research infrastructure necessary for scientific breakthroughs in cancer treatment, infectious disease prevention, and medical technology innovation, among many others. President Trump has wreaked havoc on the nation’s biomedical research system in recent weeks. In his first several days in office, President Trump imposed a hiring freeze, communications freeze, ban on travel, and cancellation of grant review and advisory panels that are necessary to advance research. While some of these efforts have been reversed, they continue to cause confusion and miscommunication among researchers and recipients of NIH funds,” Senator Murray and the Members wrote.

Last week, the NIH announced it would set the maximum reimbursement rate for indirect costs to 15 percent—creating a serious funding shortfall for research institutions of all types across the country. This move would dismantle the biomedical research system and stifle the development of new cures for disease. It won’t produce cost savings—it will just shift costs to states who can’t afford to pay the difference. Importantly, this action by the Trump administration is illegal—Congress’ bipartisan Labor-HHS-Education Appropriations Bill prohibits modifications to NIH’s indirect costs.

“This change to NIH’s indirect cost rate represents an indiscriminate funding cut that will be nothing short of catastrophic for the lifesaving research that patients and families are counting on. The Administration’s new policy means that research will come to a halt, sick kids may not get the treatment they need, and clinical trials may shut down abruptly,” the senators wrote. On Monday, a federal judge in Boston temporarily blocked the NIH rate cut and set a hearing for February 21^st.

The senators’ letter points out that, in addition to the stifling impact on discovering new cures and ripping away treatment from those who need it, changes to NIH policy and communications threaten jobs in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. NIH research supported more than 412,000 jobs and fueled nearly $93 billion in new economic activity in Fiscal Year 2023 and every dollar the NIH invests in research generates almost $2.50 in economic activity.

“The Trump Administration has left researchers, universities, and health systems with great uncertainty about whether they can continue to support entire research programs and patient clinical trials across the country. Institutions and grantees nationwide are dealing with an unprecedented external communications “pause” enacted by new leadership at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the lack of transparency regarding the Administration’s illegal funding freeze, and the uncertainty of how new Executive Orders would be applied to their critical work. These actions resulted in NIH freezing grant reviews and cancelling advisory meetings, delaying critical funding that scientists need to continue advancing new cures and treatments. These disruptions do not just slow research—they cost lives,” the senators continued.

“Our standing as a world leader in funding and producing new medical and scientific innovations has been put at risk by these recent actions from the Trump Administration. We urge you to stop playing political games with the lifesaving work of the NIH and to allow NIH research to continue uninterrupted.”

The letter was signed by the entire Senate Democratic caucus: in addition to Senator Murray, Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chris Coons (D-DE), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), John Fetterman (D-PA), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Angus King (I-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Mark Warner (D-VA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR) signed onto the letter.

As a longtime appropriator and former Chair of the Senate HELP Committee, Murray has long fought to boost biomedical research, strengthen public health infrastructure, and make health care more affordable and accessible. Over her years as a senior member of the Appropriations Committee, she has secured billions of dollars in increases for biomedical research at the National Institutes of Health, and during her time as Chair of the HELP Committee she established the new ARPA-H research agency as part of her PREVENT Pandemics Act to advance some of the most cutting-edge research in the field. Senator Murray was also the lead Democratic negotiator of the bipartisan 21st Century Cures Act, which delivered a major federal investment to boost NIH research, among many other investments.

A PDF of the letter is available HERE and the full text is below.

Dear Secretary Kennedy,

We write to express our serious concern with the Trump Administration’s recent decisions that threaten to undermine the nation’s biomedical research infrastructure and set us back generations. The steps the Trump Administration has taken will create a serious funding shortfall for research institutions nationwide, threaten to undermine progress on lifesaving scientific advancements, could cost the U.S. economy billions of dollars, and threaten the livelihoods of hundreds of thousands of workers.

As the largest public funder of biomedical research in the world, NIH plays a critical role in sustaining the research infrastructure necessary for scientific breakthroughs in cancer treatment, infectious disease prevention, and medical technology innovation, among many others. President Trump has wreaked havoc on the nation’s biomedical research system in recent weeks. In his first several days in office, President Trump imposed a hiring freeze, communications freeze, ban on travel, and cancellation of grant review and advisory panels that are necessary to advance research. While some of these efforts have been reversed, they continue to cause confusion and miscommunication among researchers and recipients of NIH funds.

Just last week, NIH announced an illegal plan to cap indirect cost rates that research institutions rely on. In capping indirect cost rates at 15 percent for NIH-funded grants, this policy would cut funding essential for conducting research, such as operating and maintaining laboratories, equipment, and research facilities. This change to NIH’s indirect cost rate represents an indiscriminate funding cut that will be nothing short of catastrophic for the lifesaving research that patients and families are counting on. The Administration’s new policy means that research will come to a halt, sick kids may not get the treatment they need, and clinical trials may shut down abruptly.

These confusing and harmful policy changes threaten patient safety. The strength of the American research enterprise – recognized as the best in the world – is built on Congress’ bipartisan commitment to supporting essential research infrastructure. This funding, which Congress has long appropriated on a bipartisan basis, fuels groundbreaking medical discoveries and cements the United States’ position as the global leader in biomedical research.

In addition to the stifling impact on discovering new cures and ripping away treatment from those who need it, changes to NIH policy and communications threaten jobs in all 50 states and the District of Columbia, with everyone from custodians, to research trainees, to scientists facing potential layoffs. NIH research supported more than 412,000 jobs and fueled nearly $93 billion in new economic activity in Fiscal Year 2023. Every dollar the NIH invests in research generates almost $2.50 in economic activity. These reckless policy changes not only threaten biomedical innovation and research, but also the livelihoods of thousands of workers in every state across the nation.

The Trump Administration has left researchers, universities, and health systems with great uncertainty about whether they can continue to support entire research programs and patient clinical trials across the country. Institutions and grantees nationwide are dealing with an unprecedented external communications “pause” enacted by new leadership at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the lack of transparency regarding the Administration’s illegal funding freeze, and the uncertainty of how new Executive Orders would be applied to their critical work. These actions resulted in NIH freezing grant reviews and cancelling advisory meetings, delaying critical funding that scientists need to continue advancing new cures and treatments. These disruptions do not just slow research – they cost lives.

The NIH plays a critical role in our nation’s efforts to fund scientific advancements that improve health and save lives. Our standing as a world leader in funding and producing new medical and scientific innovations has been put at risk by these recent actions from the Trump Administration. We urge you to stop playing political games with the lifesaving work of the NIH and to allow NIH research to continue uninterrupted.

Sincerely,

MIL OSI USA News –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Pressed by Sen. Murray, McMahon Can’t Name a Single Requirement of Landmark Education Law; Murray Grills McMahon on Trump Plans to Dismantle Education Department, DOGE Access to Sensitive Student Data

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

***WATCH: Senator Murray questions Education Secretary nominee Linda McMahon***

Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member and former chair of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP), pressed Linda McMahon, President Trump’s nominee to serve as Education Secretary, on how she would approach the job of leading our nation’s Department of Education as President Trump calls the Department a “con job,” says he wants it closed “immediately”, hopes McMahon will “put herself out of a job,” and as Trump, Elon Musk, and DOGE have already begun illegally gutting the Department.

Senator Murray began by pressing McMahon on whether she will ensure enacted funding gets out to serve students as directed and on DOGE staffers setting up camp at the Department of Education, where they have reportedly fed sensitive personal and financial data from the department into artificial intelligence software. “They’ve already been given access to highly-sensitive student data, and have already started holding back money that Congress decided, on a bipartisan basis, was needed to help our schools and students,” Murray said.

“We are also hearing, as you know, about an Executive Order coming any day that will seek to dismantle the Department of Education. These are bipartisan laws–you indicated that you understood that… if confirmed, do you commit to getting every dollar we have invested in our students and schools out to them?”

McMahon responded that the DOGE staffers were “doing an audit,” to which Murray pressed further: “I understand an audit. But when Congress appropriates money, it is the administration’s responsibility to put that out as directed by Congress, who has the power of the purse. So what will you do if the President or Elon Musk tells you not to spend money Congress has appropriated to you?”

McMahon said at first that the Department would “certainly spend” money Congress passed, before immediately following up with: “But I do think it is worthwhile to take a look at the programs before money goes out the door. It’s much easier—it is much easier to stop the money as it’s going out the door than it is to claw it back.”

Murray made clear in response: “The process by law is that you look at that, you make recommendations to Congress. …. So, I mean the question really is–who decides how much federal funding public schools get in Seattle, where it’s already been allocated… Elon Musk or Congress?”

Murray continued her questioning by asking Ms. McMahon about the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), bipartisan legislation to rewrite the No Child Left Behind Act that Murray negotiated while Ranking Member of the Senate HELP Committee. The legislation gave states more flexibility in using federal education funds, eliminated one-size-fits-all mandates, and established strong federal guardrails to hold states and schools accountable. Murray argued that the Department of Education must do more to implement the law—pointing out that less than 42 percent of schools identified for comprehensive support and improvement had a plan that met all requirements of the law, and the recent National Assessment of Educational Progress showed that our lowest-performing students continue to fall furthest behind and exacerbate pre-pandemic achievement gaps.

“What specific actions will you take to implement the ESSA law?” Murray asked. “Can you name a couple of the requirements that are in that law that you will make sure are implemented?”

When McMahon declined to name a single requirement of ESSA, Murray pressed on: “Do you know what the requirements are? Do you know about the requirements for targeted support and improvement schools, or the annual report card requirement? Can you name any of the requirements?”

When McMahon demurred, Murray asked again about any provisions she could name.

McMahon responded, “No, I want to study it further and get back to you on that.”

Next, Murray asked about reports that Elon Musk and his DOGE staff have been given access to the personal information of students and their families—including their Social Security numbers, driver’s license numbers, date of birth, and what college they are enrolled in. While DOGE’s access is temporarily paused due to litigation, Murray noted, “There is a real potential for that kind of information to be abused, or for students’ privacy to be placed in jeopardy if the courts end up ruling against the students. And we know that DOGE could use that highly personal information to then target students and target their families or cut off access to Pell Grants for students at a college that someone perceives opposes, maybe, President Trump’s policies.”

“So I want to ask you, do you believe that DOGE employees should have access to private student data?”

When McMahon suggested that DOGE employees are operating “under certain restraints,” Murray pressed on: “I have to tell you it is deeply concerning that we have DOGE staffers—we don’t know who they are, they’re not held accountable—getting access to students’ private information. I think that should frighten everyone.”

A senior member and former chair of the HELP Committee, Senator Murray has championed students and families at every stage of her career—fighting to help ensure every child in America can get a high-quality public education. Among other things, Senator Murray negotiated the bipartisan Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), landmark legislation that she got signed into law, replacing the broken No Child Left Behind Act. As a longtime appropriator, she has successfully fought to boost funding to support students and invest in our nation’s K-12 schools, and she has secured significant increases to the Pell Grant so that it goes further for students pursuing a higher education. Senator Murray also successfully negotiated the FAFSA Simplification Act, bipartisan legislation to reform the financial aid application process, simplify the FAFSA form for students and parents, and significantly expand eligibility for federal aid.

MIL OSI USA News –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Job losses from Kinleith Mill closure devastating

Source: Green Party

The hundreds of jobs lost needlessly as a result of the Kinleith Mill paper production closure will have a devastating impact on the Tokoroa community – something that could have easily been avoided.

“If our regions are to not only survive but thrive, they are going to need much more support than they are currently getting,” says the Green Party spokesperson for Regional Development Scott Willis.

“This is absolutely devastating for this community and especially for Tokoroa, the heart of the South Waikato. This doesn’t just affect 230 families, this will devastate the local economy and lead to local businesses closing down and subsequent job losses within the community.

“The Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Winston Peters, Minister of Regional Development, Shane Jones, and local MP, Louise Upston, have all made commitments to this community to solve this issue. Closing the paper machine is not even remotely solving this issue.

“The Government can still act and help build a local economy that works for people and planet, instead of one which exhausts and exploits both. Instead of relying on risky overseas companies for investment, we need to start investing in ourselves, a sustainable energy market and future industries.

“We have a plan for a Future Workforce Agency to strategically upskill New Zealanders and coordinate industrial planning. Our Jobs for Nature plan will also be a central plank for providing people with meaningful and stable work.

“But until the rules of our energy system are changed, our communities will continue to suffer from job losses, issues of supply, and higher energy prices.

“Let’s support our regional communities and help unlock the potential for future industries by reforming our electricity market into one that prioritises people and planet over profits,” says Scott Willis.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Fischer Reintroduces Legislation to Support America’s Energy Independence

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Nebraska Deb Fischer
Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, led her colleagues in reintroducing the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act of 2025. Senator Fischer’s legislation is the only permanent, nationwide solution to unleash the power of year-round E15—fulfilling President Trump’s mandate for energy independence.
By allowing the year-round, nationwide sale of E15, this legislation will finally end years of patchwork regulations and give both producers and consumers the certainty they deserve.Securing this permanent fix, coupled with Senator Fischer’s work with the administration to ensure strong renewable volume obligations (RVOs), will enable biofuels to contribute to our nation’s energy dominance.
Additional cosponsors of this bipartisan, bicameral bill include U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W. Va.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Leader John Thune (R-S.D.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Dick Durbin (D. Ill.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), and Mike Rounds (R-S.D.). U.S. Representatives Adrian Smith (NE-03) and Angie Craig (MN-02) introduced identical companion legislation in the House.
“It’s time to once and for all solidify President Trump’s pledge to allow the sale of year-round E15—giving America’s producers and consumers the certainty they deserve. My bill will put an end to years of patchwork regulations and finally make nationwide, year-round E15 a reality. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the House and the Senate, as well as with President Trump, to get this bill signed into law,” said Senator Fischer.
“For our country to remain a global energy leader, we must continue to invest in renewable and clean energy so we can decrease our emissions and dependence on foreign oil,” said Senator Duckworth. “Producing less expensive fuel choices like E15 that can be sold year-round would help lower gas prices, protect the environment, support our farmers and drive economic opportunity throughout the Midwest. I’m proud to join Senator Fischer in reintroducing our bipartisan legislation that would do just that.”
“I have been fighting to eliminate unnecessary, unscientific, and misguided barriers to E15 access since 2010. It is time to enact year-round E15 nationwide to provide relief at the pump and certainty for producers. I thank my House colleagues and Senator Fischer for their partnership on our tenacious bipartisan efforts to honor congressional intent in the RFS. From ethanol to biomass-based diesel to sustainable aviation fuel, the world depends on liquid fuels to meet consumer demand and move us forward. We have just scratched the surface of our production capacity, which is why it is so important to codify year-round E15 and ensure robust RFS volumes,” said Congressman Smith.
“Homegrown biofuels are tools we have right now to address climate change, strengthen our nation’s energy infrastructure and lower costs for Americans at the gas pump,” said Congresswoman Craig. “This bill is the kind of commonsense legislation we need more of in Washington, and I’m proud to be a part of the bipartisan coalition fighting for year-round E15 in the House.”
Nebraska Stakeholder Support:“We applaud Senator Fischer’s leadership and continued passion in reintroducing the year-round E15 legislation, a critical step forward for America’s corn farmers,” said Nebraska Corn Growers Association farmer and President Michael Dibbern. “Although we’re disappointed that this common-sense legislation didn’t pass during the lame duck session, we’re grateful for Senator Fischer’s perseverance. By securing year-round E15 approval, we can increase corn grind, drive economic growth and provide a vital market opportunity for farmers. This legislation would also bring much-needed consistency and stability to the marketplace, allowing American families to choose lower-cost, lower-emission E15 at the pump every day. We’re appreciative of Senator Fischer’s tireless advocacy and look forward to continuing our collaborative efforts to advance the interests of Nebraska’s corn farmers.”
“The Nebraska Farm Bureau again thanks Nebraska Senator Deb Fischer for her continued leadership on trying to approve the sale of E-15 year-round. It is past time for the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act to become law, and we look forward to working to get this important legislation to President Trump’s desk this year. For too long, outdated rules and regulations have prevented the year-round sale of E-15, and 2025 must be the year we finally rectify this issue,” said Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation President Mark McHargue.
“Thank you to Senator Fischer for leading the fight for year-round E-15, which is a huge opportunity for Nebraska’s ethanol industry, farmers, and drivers. This bill means stronger rural economies, lower prices at the pump, and a cleaner fuel option for drivers. On behalf of our members across the state, Renewable Fuels Nebraska applauds her leadership and calls on Congress to act now and pass this bipartisan policy,” said Renewable Fuels Nebraska Executive Director Dawn Caldwell.
Full List of Nebraska Endorsements:
Nebraska Corn Growers Association, Nebraska Farm Bureau, and Renewable Fuels Nebraska.
National Stakeholder Support:
“Year-round, nationwide E15 sales will prevent a confusing patchwork of state regulations and give consumers reliable access to the fuels they use every day. We thank Representatives Smith and Craig, as well as Senators Fischer and Duckworth, for championing this important bipartisan effort. Now, Congress must act to bring certainty and consistency to the fuel marketplace,” said American Petroleum Institute SVP Government Relations Kristin Whitman.
“This bipartisan legislation would finally bring nationwide consistency and stability to the marketplace and eliminate the need for last-minute emergency waivers. With the summer driving season just around the corner, we urge lawmakers to swiftly adopt this bill and deliver a win for American families seeking cleaner, lower-cost fuel options. Time is of the essence,” said Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper. “Ethanol producers, oil refiners, fuel retailers, equipment manufacturers, farmers, and consumers have all rallied behind this commonsense approach. We thank Sens. Deb Fischer and Tammy Duckworth for their continued leadership on this important issue. RFA commends them and their fellow renewable fuel supporters in the Senate for continuing to fight for fair market access for our nation’s farmers, ethanol producers, and consumers.”“We applaud Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) and Representatives Adrian Smith (R-Neb.) and Angie Craig (D-Minn.) for leading the charge once again to unlock permanent, nationwide access to E15. Rural families and American consumers are lucky to have them in our corner, and we hope this is the bill that finally makes it over the finish line. The American people have waited for too long to get reliable access to a fuel that can lower costs while creating jobs in rural communities. We look forward to continuing our work with our champions in Congress and the White House to finally make year-round E15 the law of the land,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor.
“Nationwide consumer access to E15 will save drivers money at the pump while boosting the farm economy,” said Illinois farmer and National Corn Growers Association President Kenneth Hartman Jr. “We want to applaud the sponsors and co-sponsors of this bill for introducing legislation that promises to significantly benefit consumers and farmers alike.”
“E-15 is a win for both farmers and consumers, offering a vital opportunity to lower fuel prices and provide more choices at the pump,” said National Farmer Union President Rob Larew.“This legislation supports family farmers by creating stronger, more reliable markets while helping reduce greenhouse gas emissions. With this bill, we’re taking critical steps toward a more sustainable future, and we urge lawmakers to act quickly to ensure farmers and consumers benefit from these opportunities.”
“To effectively serve their customers, convenience retailers need a stable and predictable year-round market for fuels like E15,” said National Association of Convenience Stores (NACS) General Counsel Doug Kantor. “We are grateful to Senator Fischer and Senator Duckworth for their continued leadership on this issue, with legislation that will improve the environmental attributes of summer gasoline while lowering costs for families and small businesses across the country.”
Full List of National Endorsements:
American Petroleum Institute, Renewable Fuels Association, Growth Energy, National Corn Growers Association, National Farmer Union, and National Association of Convenience Stores.
Background:Senator Fischer has been a steadfast champion for year-round E15 since 2015, when she first co-led a bill to allow year-round E15 during the 114th Congress.
In 2017, during the 115th Congress, she introduced the Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act to amend the Clear Air Act and help make year-round E15 a reality. Later that year, she testified before the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee in support of her bipartisan legislation.
In 2019, Senator Fischer traveled with President Trump to Nebraska and Iowa when he announced regulatory efforts to allow the sale of E15. When President Trump’s efforts were struckdown by courts, Senator Fischer continued to lead by reintroducing this legislation in 2021, during the 117th Congress. Senator Fischer released an updated bill in 2022 that included unprecedented support.
In 2023, Senator Fischer introduced the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act of 2023 to break down remaining barriers and unlock the full potential of nationwide, year-round E15, advancing America’s energy independence. In the U.S. House of Representatives, Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) introduced companion legislation.
Last month, on the first day of his term, President Trump took steps to make E15 available year-round through his Executive Order Declaring a National Energy Emergency.
Click here to read the text of the bill.

MIL OSI USA News –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI China: China to adjust intensity, timing of monetary policies as appropriate

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

BEIJING, Feb. 13 — China’s central bank will utilize a variety of monetary policy tools and adjust the intensity and timing of policies as appropriate, based on domestic and international economic and financial conditions, as well as financial market operations, according to a report released by the People’s Bank of China (PBOC) on Thursday.

The aim is to maintain ample liquidity and ensure that social financing and money supply growth align with the country’s goals for economic growth and overall price levels, according to the PBOC’s fourth-quarter 2024 monetary policy report.

China’s monetary policy toolkit is enriched continuously, and the scope of its monetary policy functions is expanding, the report said.

Since 2013, the central bank has reduced the reserve requirement ratio (RRR) 29 times, decreasing the average RRR from 20.1 percent to 6.6 percent.

Outstanding relending loans, including medium-term lending facility loans, stood at 11.4 trillion yuan (1.59 trillion U.S. dollars) at the end of 2024, representing 28.8 percent of the PBOC’s total assets.

In 2024, the PBOC conducted net purchases of government bonds worth a total of 1 trillion yuan, which, in combination with other monetary tools, maintained a reasonably ample level of liquidity.

Next, the PBOC will adopt a moderately loose monetary policy and increase financial support further to drive technological innovation and promote consumption, according to the report.

MIL OSI China News –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta and Secretary of State Weber Urge Appellate Court to Resolve Huntington Beach Voter ID Lawsuit on the Merits
Source: US State of California

Thursday, February 13, 2025

Contact: (916) 210-6000, agpressoffice@doj.ca.gov
Court filing underscores that this is an urgent elections matter

SACRAMENTO — California Attorney General Rob Bonta and Secretary of State Shirley N. Weber, Ph.D. today announced filing a petition for writ of mandate with the California Fourth District Court of Appeal, Division Three in Santa Ana concerning Huntington Beach’s voter identification (voter ID) law, Measure A. Without citing any evidence that fraudulent voting occurs with any regularity in the city or has ever compromised the outcome of a municipal election, Measure A amended the city’s charter to purportedly allow the city to impose voter ID requirements at the polls for all municipal elections starting in 2026. On November 15, 2024, the Orange County Superior Court concluded that the state’s lawsuit against Huntington Beach over Measure A was “not ripe for adjudication” because the measure “is permissive and discretionary in character, and thus currently presents no conflict with state elections law.” Attorney General Bonta and Secretary of State Weber appealed on January 14, 2025. The petition for writ of mandate asks the appellate court to resolve the whole case on the merits, rather than wait to resolve the state’s pending appeal on the narrower question of ripeness.

“Secretary Weber and I continue to believe that Huntington Beach’s Measure A is unlawful. Today, we are asking the appellate court to hear our case on the merits now, instead of waiting. With preparations for the 2026 elections beginning late this year, time is of the essence,” said Attorney General Rob Bonta. “The right to vote is sacred, and we will not allow Huntington Beach to disenfranchise Californians at the polls. As we have said repeatedly, our elections are already secure, and applicants who register to vote in California are already required to verify their identity during the registration process.”

“As California’s chief elections officer, I stand with Attorney General Bonta in challenging local government actions that violate state law and diminish the right to vote,” said Secretary of State Shirley Weber. “I will continue to advocate for an inclusive democracy and the voices of voters. The writ of mandate filed today seeks to ensure a prompt resolution of Huntington Beach’s unlawful charter amendment.”

In the petition, Attorney General Bonta and Secretary of State Weber explain that the appellate court should grant the petition for the following reasons:
- The state lacks an adequate, speedy remedy at law. The City of Huntington Beach apparently intends to adopt and enforce voter identification rules after elections officials begin planning for the 2026 elections and mere months before they are held. There is no other way for the courts to resolve this case quickly enough to prevent elections officials and the city’s voters from suffering harm.
- The issue presented is one of great statewide, public importance, with significant implications for the successful administration of upcoming elections, the protection of the right to vote, and the constitutional separation of powers between charter cities and the state.
- This case presents a matter of first impression under the California Constitution and a new state law prohibiting local voter identification rules.
- Resolving this case now serves judicial economy by avoiding numerous appeals raising the same issue.
Filed on April 15, 2024, the lawsuit by Attorney General Bonta and Secretary of State Weber alleges that Measure A is preempted by state law and invalid. Under the California Constitution, charter cities have the right to govern “municipal affairs,” but local law cannot conflict with state law governing a “statewide concern.” Both the integrity of California’s elections and the protection of the constitutional right to vote are matters of statewide concern. The lawsuit further argues that California already maintains a uniform and robust legal scheme for safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process and protecting the rights of eligible voters.

A copy of the petition can be found here. If the appellate court does not grant the petition, the court may still resolve the state’s appeal on ripeness grounds.
# # #

MIL OSI USA News –
February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy, Risch introduce bill to make bureaucrats write contracts in plain language

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)

WASHINGTON – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) today joined Sen. Jim Risch (R-Idaho) in introducing the Simplifying Subcontracting Act to require the federal government to write subcontracting applications in plain, understandable language.

“Government agencies speak an entirely different language from the American people. The Simplifying Subcontracting Act would help Louisiana’s small business owners better compete for contracts by ending Washington’s bureaucratic terminology in the application process,” said Kennedy.

“Small businesses are vital to our economy but are often left out in federal government contracting due to overly complicated, bureaucratic language. The Simplifying Subcontracting Act requires certain federal government contracts to use plain language, enabling more small businesses to compete for these contracts,” said Risch.

Currently, overly technical and specialized language discourages many small businesses from applying for and entering into government contracts.

Sens. Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Todd Young (R-Ind.) and John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.) also cosponsored the bill.

Kennedy first backed the bill in the 118th Congress, during which the Senate Small Business Committee approved it.

The full bill text is available here.

MIL OSI USA News –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy introduces resolution to repeal Biden admin’s EPA rule targeting chemical manufacturing

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)

WASHINGTON – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) today introduced a Congressional Review Act (CRA) joint resolution of disapproval to reverse the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) rule targeting the use of trichloroethylene (TCE).

In Dec. 2024, the Biden administration published its final rule to prohibit all uses of TCE. TCE is a liquid chemical that is found in industrial cleaning products, lubricants, adhesives, sealants, paint and more.

“The Biden administration waged war against America’s chemical producers who provide critical products to many industries and help keep our economy running. Congress should move quickly to take off the handcuffs that President Biden placed on Louisiana and U.S. businesses,” said Kennedy.

Rep. Diana Harshbarger (R-Tenn.) introduced the resolution in the House of Representatives.

“The Biden rule for TCE is one of many examples of the Biden Administration’s overregulation. This regulation harms our national security, economy, and critical infrastructure and will cost jobs in my district, so we’re doing everything we can to stop it. I’m proud to partner with Senator Kennedy and get this over the finish line,” said Harshbarger.

The Biden administration’s rule classifies TCE as a regulated substance despite it being a byproduct of two different chemicals, ethylene dichloride and vinyl chloride monomer. These chemicals can be found in pipes, flooring, medical devices and more. Kennedy’s resolution would repeal the EPA regulation to protect the manufacturing of products that Americans rely on daily.

The full resolution text is available here.

MIL OSI USA News –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy introduces bipartisan bill to help rural small businesses secure capital, create jobs

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)

WASHINGTON – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.), a member of the Senate Banking Committee, today introduced the Expanding Access to Capital for Rural Job Creators Act to help remove the hurdles that rural small businesses face when they try to access capital.

“Small businesses keep Louisiana’s economy running, and Congress should make sure our rural entrepreneurs aren’t facing unnecessary hurdles to securing capital. Our bill would help rural job creators get their businesses off the ground and better serve American communities,” said Kennedy.

The bill would amend the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 to require the Securities and Exchange Commission Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation to submit an annual report on the unique challenges rural businesses face when trying to secure capital. These reports would allow Congress to better weigh legislative action to expand small businesses’ access to capital.

Sens. Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) cosponsored the bill.

Kennedy previously introduced the Expanding Access to Capital for Rural Job Creators Act in the 117th and 118th Congresses. The Senate passed the bill in the 118th Congress.

The full bill text is available here.

MIL OSI USA News –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Risch Advocates for Small Business in Federal Contracting

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Idaho James E Risch

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho) today introduced the Simplifying Subcontracting Act to reduce complexity in federal government contracting and help more small businesses and entrepreneurs pursue contracts.

“Small businesses are vital to our economy but are often left out in federal government contracting due to overly complicated, bureaucratic language,” said Risch. “The Simplifying Subcontracting Act requires certain federal government contracts to use plain language, enabling more small businesses to compete for these contracts.”

The Simplifying Subcontracting Act, true to its name, is a simple, one-page bill that would require federal government contracts use straightforward language when subcontracting work is given to small businesses. This legislation mirrors the Plain Writing Act of 2010.

U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), John Kennedy (R-La.), Todd Young (R-Ind.), and John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.) joined Risch in introducing the bill.

“Qualified small businesses and entrepreneurs deserve the same access to federal government contracts as larger entities that currently dominate the contracting market,” said Crapo. “Simplified, clearer language will improve their access to the federal contracting application process.”

“Our bill will make government subcontracting agreements easier to understand, opening up more opportunities for Hoosier small businesses to compete for these contracts,” said Young.

“Dense and technical language discourages small businesses from competing for government contracts,” said Hickenlooper. “Our bipartisan bill helps even the playing field.”

The Idaho Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs), Idaho Veteran Entrepreneurship Alliance, and American Subcontractors Association support Risch’s bill.

MIL OSI USA News –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Moran Lays out Legislative Proposal to Move the Food for Peace Program to USDA

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Kansas – Jerry Moran

WASHINGTON. – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) today spoke on the Senate floor about legislation he introduced with Sens. John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Roger Marshall, M.D., (R-Kan.) and Rep. Tracey Mann (KS-01) that would move the administration of the Food for Peace program to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Sen. Moran also highlighted the importance of Food for Peace for national security, feeding the hungry and providing a market for Kansas farmers.

“In conjunction with the President’s action, I’ve introduced a bill with Sen. John Hoeven and Sen. Roger Marshall and Rep. Tracey Mann to move Food for Peace from the turbulent USAID and move it to the Department of Agriculture in an effort to prevent waste and bring the program closer to farmers that depend upon it,” said Sen. Moran. “By placing Food for Peace under USDA’s authority, we can make certain that the program is in good hands and can continue to bring revenue to American agriculture.”

“Just a little over an hour ago, the Senate confirmed the new Secretary of Agriculture, Brooke Rollins,” continued Sen. Moran. “I have no doubt she will be an excellent advocate for our nation’s farmers, and I appreciate the conversations we’ve already had on this legislation and her excitement to work on this proposal with me.”

“In rural America, food assistance programs like Food for Peace put American-grown products in the hands of the hungry, and this food is a tangible extension of the hard work and dedication of farmers and ranchers,” concluded Sen. Moran. “I’m pleased to help find ways to make our delivery of food aid more effective, more efficient and remove the challenges and things that we’ve seen that are so disturbing. Food for Peace bolters the farmers who feed us, creates a more stable world and feeds the hungry.”

Click HERE to watch Sen. Moran’s Floor Speech

Remarks as delivered:

“Today, I want to speak about a program that has shaped our nation’s humanitarian efforts and made a significant impact on my home state of Kansas, a program called Food for Peace.

“In 1953, agricultural surpluses had reached an all-time high, but the price of storing excess commodities was too expensive to rationalize, and it was at risk of going to waste.

“Kansas farmers, like Cheyenne County’s Peter O’Brien, worked hard to cultivate and grow these commodities. Looking for a solution, Peter suggested at a local farm bureau meeting that maybe the excess food could be sent to countries in need. Peter understood that out of our abundance, we have a moral duty and opportunity to feed the hungry. His idea sparked the origin of a program we now know as Food for Peace.

“Another Kansan, one of my predecessors, Andy Schoeppel, led the Food for Peace Act in the Senate, which was signed into law by President Eisenhower, another Kansan, in 1954. And Senator Bob Dole from Russell, Kansas later championed the reauthorization of Food for Peace.

“The program’s premise was simple but impactful: by leveraging the food surpluses that we produce in Kansas and across the nation, we could address famine around the world while creating new markets for our commodities and bolstering our agricultural economy.

“The first shipments of American wheat and corn were sent to Korea and Greece in 1954, and by the end of Food for Peace’s initial year of operation, it had fed 1.2 million people. Over the last 70 years, the program has fed more than 4 billion people in more than 50 countries, all with American grown commodities.

“Hunger, whether driven by price increases or food shortages, can act as a catalyst for protests and armed conflict.

“We’ve seen how food can be used as a weapon of war as radical Islamic groups in Syria use food as a means to recruit soldiers. We’ve witnessed regions of the world that are critical to America’s strategic interest sent into chaos due to people not having access to affordable food.

“In a turbulent world stricken with conflict, American leadership is more than just our military and our economic might. Food aid provided by the United States reduces despair and increases stability within fragile countries by enabling economic productivity and minimizing the risk of radicalization.

“For countless individuals around the world, their survival is dependent upon the resources provided by the American people. These vulnerable populations rely on the strength and prosperity of the United States.

“However, much work remains in the ongoing battle against hunger, and part of that battle is improving the process and programs that administer our aid.

“Food for Peace is administered by the USAID, and the inefficiency of USAID has been growing concern. The agency struggles with bureaucratic delays, mismanagement, and a lack of coordination, which undermines its ability to deliver effectively aid to those in need. This inefficiency not only waste taxpayer dollars, but also diminishes the impact of Americans’ foreign aid in addressing global crisis.

“Reports suggest that millions of taxpayer dollars have been allocated to promoting tourism in Lebanon and Egypt, funding the purchase of electric vehicles for Vietnam and inadvertently supporting the cultivation of opium in Afghanistan. Even more concerning, it has been confirmed that $9 million intended for civilian food and medical supplies in Syria fell into the hands of terrorist organizations linked to Al-Qaeda due to the failed oversight of USAID.

“Amid these concerns of corruption, President Trump has taken steps to dismantle USAID. In conjunction with the President’s action and with approval of the White House policy team, I’ve introduced a bill with Senator John Hoeven and Senator Roger Marshall, and Representative Tracey Mann to move Food for Peace from the turbulent USAID program and move it to the Department of Agriculture in an effort to prevent waste and bring the program closer to farmers that depend upon it.

“USDA has a long and proven history of managing agricultural policy and programs that support American farmers, food distribution systems and global security efforts. USDA has boots on the ground and the infrastructure already in place to support the logistics for food assistance. The agency understands how to move crops efficiently, sustainably and quickly.

“This knowledge is indispensable when responding to international crises, where speed and reliability can mean the difference between life and death. By placing Food for Peace under USDA’s authority, we make certain that the program is in good hands and can continue to bring revenue to American agriculture.

“As just a little over an hour ago, the Senate confirmed the new Secretary of Agriculture, Brooke Rollins. I have no doubt she will be an excellent advocate for our nation’s farmers, and I appreciate the conversations we’ve already had on this legislation. The Secretary has told me she’s excited about this proposal and looks forward to working together on this issue.

“We produce more than we can consume in this nation, so without programs to export to, our ability to make a living in agriculture in Kansas and across the country disappears.

“In FY2023 alone, $713 million of U.S.-grown commodities were purchased by the Food for Peace program, putting money in the in money back into the hands of farmers.

“In rural America, food assistance programs like Food for Peace put American grown products in the hands of the hungry, and this food is a tangible extension of the hard work and dedication of farmers and ranchers.

“I’m pleased to help find ways to make our delivery of food aid more effective, more efficient and remove the challenges and, things that we’ve seen that are so disturbing.

“America is the greatest country on earth and the most prosperous.

“Food for Peace bolters the farmers who feed us, creates a more stable world, and feeds the hungry.”

MIL OSI USA News –

February 14, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: China confirms ‘in-depth exchange’ with Cook Islands as New Zealand faces criticism for bullying

By Caleb Fotheringham, RNZ Pacific journalist in Avarua, Rarotonga

China has confirmed details of its meeting with Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown for the first time, saying Beijing “stands ready to have an in-depth exchange” with the island nation.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun told reporters during his regular press conference that Brown’s itinerary, from February 10-16, would include attending the closing ceremony of the Asian Winter Games in Harbin as well as meeting with Premier of the State Council Li Qiang.

Guo also confirmed that Brown and his delegation had visited Shanghai and Shandong as part of the state visit.

“The Cook Islands is China’s cooperation partner in the South Pacific,” he said.

“Since the establishment of diplomatic ties, the two countries have respected each other, treated each other as equals, and sought common development.”

Guo told reporters that the relationship between the two countries was elevated to comprehensive strategic partnership in 2018.

“Our friendly cooperation is rooted in profound public support and delivers tangibly to the two peoples.

‘New progress in bilateral relations’
“Through Prime Minister Brown’s visit, China stands ready to have an in-depth exchange of views with the Cook Islands on our relations and work for new progress in bilateral relations.”

Brown said on Wednesday that he was aware of the strong interest in the outcomes of his visit, which has created significant debate on the relationship with Cook Islands and New Zealand.

He has said that the “comprehensive strategic partnership” deal with China is expected to be signed today, and does not include a security component.

Cook Islanders are divided over Brown’s decision to keep Aotearoa in the dark about the contents of the agreement it intends to sign with Beijing.

While on one hand, the New Zealand government has been urged not to overreact, on the other the Cook Islands opposition want Brown and his government out.

Locals in Rarotonga have accused New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters of being a “bully”, while others are planning to protest against Brown’s leadership.

A local resident, Tim Buchanan, said Peters has “been a bit bullying”.

He said Peters had overacted and the whole issue had been “majorly” blown out of proportion.

‘It doesn’t involve security’
“It does not involve our national security, it does not involve borrowing a shit load of money, so what is your concern about?

“Why do we need to consult him? We have been a sovereign nation for 60 years, and all of a sudden he’s up in arms and wanted to know everything that we’re doing”

Brown previously told RNZ Pacific that he had assured Wellington “over and over” that there “will be no impact on our relationship and there certainly will be no surprises”.

However, New Zealand said it should have seen the text prior to Brown leaving for China.

Cook Islands opposition MP and leader of the Cook Islands United Party Teariki Heather . . . he has filed a vote filed a vote of no confidence motion against Prime Minister Mark Brown. Image: Caleb Fotheringham/RNZ Pacific

Vote of no confidence
Cook Islands opposition MP Teariki Heather said he did not want anything to change with New Zealand.

“The response from the government and Winston Peters and the Prime Minister of New Zealand, that’s really what concerns us, because they are furious,” said Heather, who is the leader of Cook Islands United Party.

Heather has filed a no confidence motion against the Prime Minister and has been the main organiser for a protest against Brown’s leadership that will take place on Monday morning local time.

He is expecting about 1000 people to turn up, about one in every 15 people who reside in the country.

Opposition leader Tina Browne is backing the motion and will be at the protest which is also about the Prime Minister’s push for a local passport, which he has since dropped.

With only eight opposition members in the 24-seat parliament, Browne said the motion of no confidence is not about the numbers.

“It is about what are we the politicians, the members of Parliament, going to do about the two issues and for us, the best way to demonstrate our disapproval is to vote against it in Parliament, whether the members of Parliament join us or not that’s entirely up to them.”

The 2001 document argument
Browne said that after reading the constitution and the 2001 Joint Centenary Declaration, she agreed with Peters that the Cook Islands should have first consulted New Zealand on the China deal.

“Our prime minister has stated that the agreement does not affect anything that he is obligated to consult with New Zealand. I’m very suspicious of that because if there is nothing offensive, why the secrecy then?

“I would have thought, irrespective, putting aside everything, that our 60 year relationship with New Zealand, who’s been our main partner warrants us to keep that line open for consultation and that’s even if it wasn’t in [the Joint Centenary Declaration].”

Other locals have been concerned by the lack of transparency from their government to the Cook Islands people.

But Cook Islands’ Foreign Minister Tingika Elikana said that is not how these deals were done.

“I think the people have to understand that in regards to agreements of this nature, there’s a lot of negotiations until the final day when it is signed and the Prime Minister is very open that the agreements will be made available publicly and then people can look at it.”

Cook Islands Foreign Minister Tingika Elikana . . . Image: Caleb Fotheringham/RNZ Pacific

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said the government would wait to see what was in the agreement before deciding if any punishment should be imposed.

With the waiting, Elikana said he was concerned.

“We are worried but we want to see what will be their response and we’ve always reiterated that our relationship is important to us and our citizenship is really important to us, and we will try our best to remain and retain that,” Elikana said.

He did not speculate about the vote of no confidence motion.

“I think we just leave it to the day but I’m very confident in our team and very confident in our Prime Minister.”

‘Cook Islands does a lot for New Zealand’
Cultural leader and carver Mike Tavioni said he did not know why everyone was so afraid of the Asian superpower.

“I do not know why there is an issue with the Cook Islands and New Zealand, as long as Mark [Brown] does not commit this country to a deal with China with strings attached to it,” he said.

Tavioni said the Cook Islands does a lot for New Zealand also, with about 80,000 Cook Islanders living in New Zealand and contributing to it’s economy.

“The thing about consulting, asking for permission, it does not go down well because our relationship with Aotearoa should be taken into consideration.”

This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Kinleith Mill to close paper production – E tū

Source: Etu Union

Union members are devastated to learn that Oji Fibre Solutions is set to close the paper manufacturing operations at Kinleith Mill in Tokoroa.

The closure will result in the loss of at least 230 jobs, with significant downstream impacts on the wider local community.

E tū senior delegate Ian Farall believes the company had made this decision long ago.

“The writing has been on the wall for some time, and the company never seemed serious about saving paper production,” Ian says.

“They have neglected essential maintenance that could have put us in a much stronger position. Of course, high power prices play a role, but the company should have been far better prepared for this.”

Ian also criticised the Government for failing to intervene meaningfully.

“We’re shocked and angry that the Government isn’t stepping in to save the paper mill. It’s a key part of our domestic manufacturing and vital to the wider Tokoroa community.”

Mario van der Putten, senior FIRST Union delegate at the mill, said workers were “bitterly disappointed” by the news.

“We were the last ones standing – the last paper-making machine in the country,” Mr van der Putten says.

“This puts our economy at risk and will have a ripple effect on primary industries that rely on our products for the safe, long-term storage of goods.

“We don’t believe the company has put forward a genuine business plan. Instead, they have reduced us to a business case. The writing was on the wall after two decades of underinvestment in the mill.

“This could end up being a disastrous decision that sinks the entire business. Specialist skills that take decades to master will be lost in the process.”

E tū Negotiation Specialist Joe Gallagher says the closure is yet another example of the Government failing to protect local industry.

“We hear Luxon talking about a focus on growth while doing next to nothing about the crisis facing manufacturing,” Joe says.

“The Prime Minister needs to get real about what economic prosperity actually looks like. It’s about protecting New Zealand’s industries and keeping local communities thriving, not standing by and letting them collapse.”

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: Second World Summit in Doha Must Advance Humanity’s Fight against Structural Inequalities, Speakers Tell Commission for Social Development

Source: United Nations 4

At one of two panel discussions held today by the Commission for Social Development, speakers stressed that the Second World Summit for Social Development must advance humanity’s fight against structural inequalities by promoting quality employment for young people, closing digital divides, addressing the challenges of ageing populations and tackling the climate crisis.

The Commission — established in 1946 by the Economic and Social Council as one of its functional commissions — advises the United Nations on social development issues, and its sixty-third session will run through 14 February.

The first panel discussion, titled “Preparations for the World Social Summit under the title of the Second World Summit for Social Development”, focused on the specific needs of various regions ahead of the meeting to take place in November in Doha. Panellists provided updates collected via various regional consultations and underscored the global summit’s unique opportunity to reset global priorities and build a more sustainable future for all.

Navid Hanif, Assistant Secretary-General for Economic Development, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, moderated the panel. “The state of play looks good, but then I ask myself if I were to describe it in two words I would say, not good,” he emphasized. Around 300 million people will still be living in poverty by 2030 if the world continues the same trajectory.

“Unless we act with foresight, the gaps we seek to close will only deepen,” said Rola Dashti, Executive Secretary, United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA). For the Arab region, social development cannot succeed unless conflict and displacement are addressed. “Social policies must be designed for resilience,” she went on to stress. The Arab region also faces a growing divide between the skills needed for emerging industries and those currently being developed through the education system. The Summit in Doha must ensure employment policies are fit for the future. The political declaration to come out of that meeting must promote policies that enable all generations to contribute meaningfully to economic and social progress. The digital divide in the Arab region remains significant, she also underscored, noting the gap between men and women, and urban and rural communities.

Laura Thompson, Assistant Director-General for External and Corporate Relations, International Labour Organization (ILO), said that the opportunity to renew the global social contract should be an invitation to all Member States to uphold social justice principles. “Technological innovations create both challenges and opportunities, and monitoring their impact and optimizing their potential for decent work creation is critical,” she added. One in five young persons in the world is neither in employment, education or training. The rate is almost 26 per cent for young women. “This is a personal drama for the young person concerned, but also a waste of assets for national development plans,” she added.

Magdalena Sepúlveda Carmona, Director, United Nations Research Institute for Social Development (UNRISD), said that environmental degradation, including climate change and biodiversity loss, is widely recognized as a cross-cutting issue affecting livelihoods, health and equity. More specifically in Africa, formality, lack of social protection and labour rights, youth unemployment, gender inequality and climate change are all considered to be major challenges. Meanwhile, Asia faces significant structural challenges, including a digital device, ageing population and climate related risk. For Latin America and the Caribbean region, structural inequalities, backlash against progressive policies, weakened democratic governance and climate change risk are challenges most identified. The political declaration must mobilize resources towards achieving universal rights to ensure access to adequate income and social assistance.

Srinivas Tata, Director of the Social Development Division of Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), said that the region is undergoing an unprecedented demographic transition. The number of older persons — 65 years or above — is expected to nearly double from 500 million in 2024 to almost 1 billion in 2050. “Yet, there are many countries in the region which are still having a youth bulge, and so we also need to pay specific attention to the needs of the youth,” he added. It is estimated that 42 million people in the region were pushed into extreme poverty in 2020 compared with pre-pandemic levels. “We really suffered during the COVID-19 pandemic,” he added, expressing alarm that in many countries in the Asia region fewer than 50 per cent of the population are covered by any form of social protection.

Rodrigo Martinez, Senior Social Affairs Officer, Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC), said that all people must achieve a life free of poverty and have access to economic growth and freedom and dignity. Every person must be able to fully exercise their economic, social and cultural rights. “Poverty and hunger are two persistent but surmountable scourges,” he added. “Inequality, in its multiple dimensions, represents a trap for development,” he also emphasised. People must be able to access the labour market, decent working conditions, education and healthcare. On urbanization, he urged Governments to also expand access to energy, water and sanitation.

In the afternoon, the Commission held a multi-stakeholder forum on achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through the “social and solidarity economy”, which encompasses a wide range of organizations, including cooperatives, mutual societies, associations, foundations and social enterprises, that prioritize people and communities over profit.

Moderating the discussion was Konstantinos Papadakis, Principal Social Affairs Officer at the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs, who recalled the General Assembly resolutions on cooperatives and the social and solidarity economy in 2022 and 2023, respectively. He also noted that 2025 marks the International Year of Cooperatives, observed under the theme “Cooperatives Build a Better World”. He then introduced three panellists, who shared their experiences and actions taking place in their countries.

Carlos Jorge Paris Ferraro, Vice-Minister for Social Policies at the Ministry of Social Development of Paraguay, said that while the social economy was not a public policy in his country until 2024, such an idea has historically existed in indigenous communities whose economies are marked by reciprocity. They were able to create a self-sufficient solidarity economy during the colonial period. Currently, peasant organizations and family agriculture include this culture of solidarity and reciprocity. In Paraguay, the social and solidarity economy accounts for 12 per cent of the gross domestic product (GDP), with cooperatives producing 72 per cent of dairy products and 24 per cent of meat for export. About 500,000 small- and medium-size enterprises are members of cooperatives. In a country with only 6 million people, “the cooperative sector is gigantic and is growing”, he said. He then detailed several national initiatives, such as cash transfers to preserve forests or to plant trees that benefited 268 families. To promote this growth model, the Government created the Department for the Social and Solidarity Economy within the Ministry of Social Development.

Ankhbayar Nyamdorj, Permanent Representative of Mongolia to the United Nations, said that his country in April 2024 launched the “New Cooperative” programme under its “New Recovery Policy” to enhance agriculture, particularly risk-resistant livestock husbandry through cooperatives. The programme aims to stabilize herders’ income, improve social security and boost the livestock sector’s climate resilience. By the end of 2024, it had reached 16,009, or 6.4 per cent, of Mongolia’s 247,900 herder families. Government efforts include establishing a National Committee led by the Deputy Prime Minister, granting $200 million in investment loans, and subsidizing $9.27 million in interest. Loans support breeding animal purchases, facility expansion and dairy/meat production. Training programmes engaged 1,500 cooperative members, while forums promoted development strategies. Public outreach reached 1 million citizens. Future plans include model cooperatives, national insurance integration and food safety standards. Challenges include strengthening the “social and solidarity economy” capacities, enhancing research and fostering public-private partnerships. Mongolia also shared experiences internationally, such as at the Global Cooperative Conference in India, he added.

Maxime Baduel, Ministerial Delegate for the Social and Solidarity Economy at the Ministry of the Economy, Finance and Industrial and Digital Sovereignty of France, said that the social and solidarity economy is imbued with equality, justice and cooperation. In his country, it represents 10 per cent of GDP. “The strength of this French ecosystem also lies in its legislative framework,” he said, noting how laws are designed to encourage organizations like cooperatives. Developing the social and solidarity economy is “a strong lever” to meet the SDGs, and it should be encouraged by the Commission. In conclusion, he stressed the importance of establishing a legislative regulatory framework to “give a structure to this ecosystem”, as well as the need to ensure that they are resourced financially and capacity-building instruments are in place. It is also vital to promote these structures with financial institutions and create public policies in line with the social and solidarity economy, he emphasized.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Financial assistance coming for people affected by October floods
Source: Government of Canada regional news
Disaster Financial Assistance (DFA) is now available for eligible people and businesses in the City of Maple Ridge and Township of Langley affected by flooding due to the atmospheric river from Oct. 18-20, 2024.

Following a significant event, DFA may compensate for the sudden, unexpected loss of uninsurable items that are essential. This may include building repairs to a principal residence, replacement of essential personal effects, as well as clean up and debris removal.

People can access specifics about the event and can submit their DFA application online at: https://www.gov.bc.ca/disasterfinancialassistance

DFA is available to homeowners, renters, business owners, farmers, corporation-owned properties and charitable organizations to cover uninsurable disaster-related losses. The program is unable to compensate for losses for which insurance was reasonably and readily available.

Applications for DFA must be submitted to the Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness within 90 calendar days of the event declaration. The deadline to submit applications for this DFA event for the City of Maple Ridge and the Township of Langley is May 14, 2025.

The Province is committed to providing the necessary support and resources people need to rebuild their lives after an emergency. The DFA program has been enhanced and expanded in recent years to better support people and communities. These changes include:
- increase in maximum DFA support available per claim from $300,000 to $400,000;
- expanded eligibility for small businesses based on minimum income;
- expanded annual revenue threshold for small businesses from $1 million to $2 million so more businesses can qualify for DFA;
- expanded eligibility for the farming sector to include homes owned by corporations if the home is used as a primary residence;
- increased provincial contributions to local infrastructure recovery;
- the Province may provide a portion of the project’s estimated costs up front to help communities rebuild critical infrastructure projects faster; and
- a new online portal is available to make it easier for people and communities to apply for financial support for uninsurable losses after a disaster.
DFA was previously announced for damages from the same event for people, businesses and communities in:
- City of Port Coquitlam
- City of Coquitlam
- City of North Vancouver
- District of West Vancouver
- District of North Vancouver
- Squamish First Nation
- Village of Anmore
- City of Port Moody
- City of Surrey
Learn More:

Information, eligibility criteria, categories and applications can be found by calling toll-free 1 888 257-4777 or visiting: https://www.gov.bc.ca/disasterfinancialassistance

DFA for people, businesses and communities affected by flooding due to the atmospheric river event from Oct. 18-20, 2024: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2024EMCR0047-001600

DFA extended for people, businesses and communities affected by flooding due to the atmospheric river event from Oct. 18-20, 2024: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2024EMCR0049-001657

To learn about improvements the Province made to DFA after the November 2021 flooding event, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/26713

A backgrounder follows.
MIL OSI Canada News –
February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Manufacturing increase welcomed

Source: New Zealand Government

Economic Growth Minister Nicola Willis has welcomed a lift in manufacturing activity, saying it is further evidence that the economy has started to turn around.
The BNZ and Business NZ today reported their performance manufacturing index (PMI) had risen to its highest level since September 2022.
“The increase from 46.2 in December to 51.4 in January follows 22 months of contraction.
“It is early days, but together with high levels of business confidence, the increase indicates the economic growth forecast for this year is beginning to take place.
“I know many families and businesses are still doing it tough after three years of high inflation, high interest rates and cost of living pressures squeezing the family budget and business bottom lines.
“However, this suggests families and business can look forward to better times ahead. It is particularly welcome news for the manufacturing sector after two very tough years. And that is good news for everybody.
“When the sector does well it creates jobs and opportunities for people.”

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI: MINILUXE ANNOUNCES CFO TRANSITION

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Boston, MA, Feb. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MiniLuxe Holding Corp. (TSXV: MNLX) (“MiniLuxe” or the “Company”) today announced the planned departure of Chief Financial Officer Brian Moran and the appointment of Elizabeth Lorber as Acting Chief Financial Officer, effective February 14, 2025. Ms. Lorber, who joined the Company in 2020, currently serves as Treasurer and Chief Commercial Officer and has previously held the position of CFO at MiniLuxe.

In consultation with its accounting and tax counsel, the Company and its Board of Directors have been conducting a search for a permanent successor to support MiniLuxe’s future growth and strategic objectives.

“Brian has been a valuable member of our leadership team over the past two years, helping to implement some key systems and practices that will benefit the Company moving forward. On behalf of the Board and the MiniLuxe team, I want to express our sincere gratitude for his contributions and support during our transition planning. We wish him all the best in his future endeavors,” said Tony Tjan, CEO of MiniLuxe.

To ensure a seamless transition, Mr. Moran has been working closely with the executive and finance teams, while Ms. Lorber has been actively supporting the search process and leveraging her deep institutional knowledge, strong team relationships, and prior experience as the Company’s CFO.

About MiniLuxe

MiniLuxe, a Delaware corporation based in Boston, Massachusetts. MiniLuxe is a lifestyle brand and talent empowerment platform servicing the beauty and self-care industry. Through its company-owned and partner-operated studios, Company delivers high-quality nail care and esthetic services that incorporate the brand’s proprietary products. For over a decade, MiniLuxe has been elevating industry standards through healthier, ultra-hygienic services, modern design, ethical labor practices, and better-for-you, cleaner products. MiniLuxe’s vision is to radically transform the highly fragmented and under-regulated self-care and nail care industry through its brand, standards, and technology platform that together enable better talent and client experiences.

Towards building long-term durable value for its stakeholders, MiniLuxe is expanding its reach through franchising and operating JV partners seeking ownership and impact with a brand recognized as the best nail salon franchise. Through self-care and self-expression, MiniLuxe is empowering one of the largest hourly work forces through professional development, economic mobility, and equity ownership. Since its founding, MiniLuxe has performed over 4.5 million services.

For further information

Christine Mastrangelo
Investor Relations, MiniLuxe Holding Corp.
cmastrangelo@MiniLuxe.com
MiniLuxe.com

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

The MIL Network –

February 14, 2025