NewzIntel.com

Category: Economy

  • MIL-OSI: Draganfly Announces Closing of US$3.6 Million Underwritten Public Offering

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Saskatoon, SK., May 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Draganfly Inc. (NASDAQ: DPRO) (CSE: DPRO) (FSE: 3U8A) (“Draganfly” or the “Company”), a drone solutions, and systems developer, today announced the closing of its previously announced underwritten public offering (the “Offering”) of 1,715,000 units (the “Units”), with each Unit consisting of one common share and one warrant to purchase one common share (each, a “Warrant”). Each Unit was sold at a public offering price of US$2.10, for gross proceeds of approximately US$3.6 million, before deducting underwriting discounts and offering expenses. The Warrants have an exercise price of CA$3.9779 (or US$2.875) per share, are exercisable immediately and will expire five years following the date of issuance. In addition, the Company granted the Underwriter (as defined below) a 45-day over-allotment option to purchase up to an additional 15% of the number of common shares and/or warrants offered in the Offering, of which the Underwriter has partially exercised its option to purchase an additional 100,000 Warrants.

    Maxim Group LLC (the “Underwriter”) acted as sole book-running manager for the Offering.

    Draganfly currently intends to use the net proceeds from the Offering for general corporate purposes, including to fund its capabilities to meet demand for its new products including growth initiatives and/or for working capital requirements including the continuing development and marketing of the Company’s core products, potential acquisitions and research and development.

    The Offering was made pursuant to an effective shelf registration statement on Form F-10, as amended, (File No. 333-271498) previously filed with and subsequently declared effective by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on July 5, 2023 and the Company’s Canadian short form base shelf prospectus dated June 30, 2023 (the “Base Shelf Prospectus”). Draganfly offered and sold the securities in the United States only. No securities were offered or sold to Canadian purchasers.

    A final prospectus supplement and accompanying Base Shelf Prospectus relating to the Offering and describing the terms thereof has been filed with the applicable securities commissions in the Canadian provinces of British Columbia, Saskatchewan and Ontario, and with the SEC in the United States and is available for free by visiting the Company’s profiles on the SEDAR+ website maintained by the Canadian Securities Administrators at www.sedarplus.ca or the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov, as applicable. Copies of the final prospectus supplements and accompanying Base Shelf Prospectus relating to the Offering may be obtained by contacting Maxim Group LLC, at 300 Park Avenue, 16th Floor, New York, NY 10022, Attention: Syndicate Department, or by telephone at (212) 895-3745 or by email at syndicate@maximgrp.com.

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

    About Draganfly

    Draganfly Inc. (NASDAQ: DPRO; CSE: DPRO; FSE: 3U8A) is a pioneer in drone solutions, AI-driven software, and robotics. With over 25 years of innovation, Draganfly has been at the forefront of drone technology, providing solutions for public safety, agriculture, industrial inspections, security, mapping, and surveying. The Company is committed to delivering efficient, reliable, and industry-leading technology that helps organizations save time, money, and lives.

    Media Contact
    media@draganfly.com

    Company Contact
    Email: info@draganfly.com

    Forward Looking Statements

    Certain statements contained in this news release may constitute “forward-looking statements” or “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Such statements, based as they are on the current expectations of management, inherently involve numerous important risks, uncertainties and assumptions, known and unknown. In this news release, such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the intended use of proceeds of the Offering. Actual future events may differ from the anticipated events expressed in such forward-looking statements. Draganfly believes that expectations represented by forward-looking statements are reasonable, yet there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. The reader should not place undue reliance, if any, on any forward-looking statements included in this news release. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date made, and Draganfly is under no obligation and disavows any intention to update publicly or revise such statements as a result of any new information, future event, circumstances or otherwise, unless required by applicable securities laws.‎ Investors are cautioned not to unduly rely on these forward-looking statements and are encouraged to read the Offering documents, as well as Draganfly’s continuous disclosure documents, including its current annual information form, as well as its audited annual consolidated financial statements which are available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on EDGAR at www.sec.gov/edgar.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese cinema box office exceeds 740 million yuan during May Day holiday

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, May 5 (Xinhua) — Chinese movie theaters earned more than 740 million yuan (about 102 million U.S. dollars) in box office revenue during the five-day national holiday to mark International Labor Day that ended Monday, according to data from Chinese ticketing platform Maoyan.

    The chart was topped by director Andrew Lau’s “Dumpling Queen,” which grossed more than 190 million yuan. The film tells the story of a Hong Kong street food vendor who creates a popular frozen food brand.

    Second place went to financial crime thriller Money Hunt. The film about high-stakes fraud and market manipulation earned more than 133 million yuan.

    In third place was the Ghibli animation film Princess Mononoke, which grossed more than 69 million yuan. Hayao Miyazaki’s ecological epic, released in Japan in 1997, became an international hit. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Obernolte introduces legislation to bolster U.S. critical mineral supply chain

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jay Obernolte (R-Hesperia)

    WASHINGTON, DC–U.S. Representative Jay Obernolte (CA-23) has introducedlegislation to reduce the United States’ reliance on China and other foreign nations forcritical minerals. Critical minerals and rare earth metals are used to manufactureconsumer electronics, military equipment, electric vehicle batteries, and other advancedtechnologies vital to America’s homeland security and economic competitiveness. Chinais currently the largest source for more than half of the critical minerals on the U.S.Geological Survey’s 2022 list. The Intergovernmental Critical Minerals Task Force Actwould address this concern by identifying opportunities to increase the domesticproduction and recycling of critical minerals.“Critical minerals are essential to our economy, our national security, and thedevelopment of our country’s energy grid,” saidRep. Jay Obernolte.“TheIntergovernmental Critical Minerals Task Force will bring stakeholders together toidentify how we canenhance our supply chains and shore up production of criticalminerals here at home.”“Access to critical minerals is essential for our national security and energy grid. Ourbipartisan bill will identify new ways to reduce our dependency on foreign nations likeChina for critical minerals,” saidCongresswoman Susie Lee (NV-3). “We can’t affordany disruptions to our critical mineral supply chain.”This legislation requires the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director toappoint representatives from federal agencies to consult with state, local, and tribalgovernments. The Task Force will work to determine how to address national securityrisks associated with America’s critical mineral supply chains and identify new domesticopportunities for mining,processing, refinement, reuse, and recycling of critical minerals. Thebillalso requiresthe Task Force to send a report to Congress and publishfindings, guidelines, and recommendationson reducingthe United States’ reliance onChina and other foreign nations for critical minerals.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Moolenaar, Obernolte, Goldman, Introduce LOCOMOTIVES Act to Stop California Regulations from Impacting Nation

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jay Obernolte (R-Hesperia)

    Today, Congressmen John Moolenaar, Jay Obernolte (R-CA), and Craig Goldman (R-TX) introduced the LOCOMOTIVES Act to limit the State of California’s ability to place unsustainable regulations on trains crossing into the state. The legislation revises Section 209 of the Clean Air Act to close a loophole which allows the California Air Resources Board to request waivers from the Environmental Protection Agency which would require interstate trains to abide by environmental standards stricter than the federal government’s.  

    “Nearly every industry relies on railway to ship their goods and access markets across the world. Unfortunately, bureaucrats in California maintain the ability to supersede federal standards and institute policies that would keep vital parts of Michigan’s economy, including the agriculture and auto industries, from accessing global markets. The LOCOMOTIVES Act is a commonsense proposal that stops California’s policies from impacting our state, and the rest of the country,” said Moolenaar. 

    “California should not be hijacking national freight policy with unreasonable emissions mandates,” said Obernolte. “CARB’s proposed locomotive standards would have wreaked havoc on interstate commerce, driven up costs for American families, and crippled rail operations across the country. I’m thankful that, after sustained pressure, CARB recognized the consequences of its overreach and withdrew its request. I’m proud to support the LOCOMOTIVES Act to prevent these illogical actions in the future and protect the infrastructure that keeps our economy moving.” 

    “As railways continue to serve as a cost-effective and reliable means of transporting goods, California’s extreme green energy regulations will prevent most locomotives from operating within the state. I’m proud to co-sponsor Representative Moolenaar’s LOCOMOTIVES Act, which prevents states like California from imposing unnecessary restrictions that would disrupt Texas’ interstate commerce and drive-up costs for consumers. This bill is an important measure to standardize locomotive regulations across states and ensure that Texas remains a key hub for interstate trade,” said Goldman.  

    The LOCOMOTIVES Act is endorsed by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the Association of American Railroads, the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association, the North American Millers Association, the Supply Chain Federation, and the National Grain and Feed Association.  

    “We applaud Congressman Moolenaar’s leadership in introducing legislation that would prevent the possibility of unworkable and infeasible state regulation of locomotives involved in interstate commerce. This bill would close a Clean Air Act loophole that could be used by a state to circumvent federal regulation of locomotives and create a de facto national rule that would risk the viability of small business freight railroads,” said Chuck Baker, President of the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association. 

    “Railroads remain the most fuel-efficient way to move goods over land and continue to deliver reliably for the nation’s businesses and communities,” said AAR President and CEO Ian Jefferies. “Currently, there are no commercially viable zero-emissions locomotives available—despite claims made by the California Air Resources Board in its now-abandoned in-use locomotive rule. As the industry pursues scalable, alternative solutions, Rep. Moolenaar’s legislation would provide much-needed regulatory certainty and prevent an impractical and infeasible state mandate from disrupting the entire nation’s supply chain.”

    “Railroads are among the most fuel-efficient and environmentally responsible modes of freight transport. Subjecting them to a patchwork of state-level emissions standards  would not only disrupt the flow of goods, but also discourage investment in cleaner technologies by creating uncertainty,” said Sarah Wiltfong, Chief Policy and Advocacy Officer, the Supply Chain Federation.  “By reinforcing the federal government’s longstanding authority over mobile emissions on existing locomotives and their engines, the LOCOMOTIVE Act helps preserve regulatory consistency for a freight rail system that is critical to our supply chain and national economy.” 

    “Railroads are among the most fuel-efficient and environmentally responsible modes of freight transport. Subjecting them to a patchwork of state-level emissions standards  would not only disrupt the flow of goods, but also discourage investment in cleaner technologies by creating uncertainty,” said Sarah Wiltfong, Chief Policy and Advocacy Officer, the Supply Chain Federation.  “By reinforcing the federal government’s longstanding authority over mobile emissions on existing locomotives and their engines, the LOCOMOTIVES Act helps preserve regulatory consistency for a freight rail system that is critical to our supply chain and national economy.” 

    In 2023, the California Air Resources Board requested a waiver from the EPA, which would prohibit trains older than 23 years old operating from operating in the state unless it operates on a zero emissions configuration. The waiver was withdrawn last year, however, California is able to resubmit a similar request at any time. If California’s waiver request was granted, effectively two-thirds of all currently operating trains could not cross into the state, leaving them unable to access two of the largest ports in the country.  

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Markey, Ernst Celebrate American Spirit of Entrepreneurship During National Small Business Week

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

    Washington (May 5, 2025) – U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship Ranking Member Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) and Chair Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) led 81 of their colleagues in declaring this week as “National Small Business Week” to recognize the innovators and job creators who power our economy.

    “This National Small Business Week, we celebrate the contributions of small businesses that create jobs, drive our local economies, and make up the fabric of our communities,” said Senator Markey. “By supporting local businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs, we make our communities and our country stronger. I’m committed to ensuring that our nation’s 34 million small businesses and the 722,500 small businesses in Massachusetts receive the tools and resources they need to compete and thrive.”

    “Small businesses are the lifeblood of Iowa’s economy, making up more than 99% of all businesses,” said Senator Ernst. “These shops mean so much more than the livelihoods they support and the jobs they create, they embody the American spirit and shape the culture of big cities and rural communities across America. These innovators drive our nation forward every day, I’m proud to recognize their tremendous contributions.”

    There are more than 34.7 million small businesses in America, accounting for more than 99.9% of all businesses and employing 45.9% of American workers, or about 59 million people.

    Click here to read the resolution.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Workers’ rights essential to building an inclusive economy

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    President Cyril Ramaphosa has emphasised the need for collective action to drive inclusive economic growth and job creation, while safeguarding the rights and gains of South African workers. 

    “At a time when our singular focus is on inclusive economic growth and job creation, we must continue to work together to improve the lives of every South African worker. Let us use the hard-won gains of workers to create new opportunities for all,” President Ramaphosa said in his weekly newsletter.

    The President’s newsletter comes as the nation has just observed Workers’ Day on 1 May, which is commemorated across the world in honour of the struggles of workers for fair labour standards and conditions of work.

    The President noted that over the past 31 years, the country has made considerable progress in improving its labour laws and protecting the rights of workers.

    He highlighted that the country emerged from a past where black workers were deliberately denied their rights. 

    For many years, he said, black workers could not be organised into unions. Through job reservation, they were denied access to certain occupations and they often worked in unsafe and unhealthy conditions.

    “Today, the rights of workers in South Africa are protected and enforced. The Constitution enshrines the rights of workers as it does the rights of every person who lives in South Africa. Since 1994, we have passed progressive laws to give effect to the rights of workers,” the President said. 

    Following extensive consultation with business, labour and civil society, government introduced a National Minimum Wage in 2019, setting a wage below which no worker may be paid.

    Studies have found that since its introduction, the National Minimum Wage has led to a significant increase in hourly wages for workers and has also played a role in reducing the gap between the highest and lowest paid workers.

    “We have sought to break from our apartheid past, where workers laboured under oppressive conditions to swell the profits of companies without receiving even the most basic benefits. This includes measures to advance worker ownership in companies. An increasing number of workers are part of worker share ownership programmes,” he said. 

    The President emphasised that government has been deliberate in its efforts to protect the rights of women workers. 

    He highlighted that the Employment Equity Act prohibits unfair discrimination on the basis of sex, gender, pregnancy and marital status. 

    “Female workers are guaranteed specific entitlements such as maternity and family responsibility leave, and we have laws that safeguard against sexual harassment and gender-based violence in the workplace,” he said.

    At a time of constrained economic growth and high unemployment, the President said there have been calls from some people, including political parties, for the country’s labour laws to be ‘relaxed’ in response to the prevailing economic climate.

    “Stimulating economic growth and job creation and retaining worker protections are not mutually exclusive. In fact, worker rights have been found to improve productivity and thereby enhance the growth of companies and the economy. They also help to distribute the benefits of growth more equally and improve economic stability.

    “In addition, South Africa’s labour laws are part of our effort to overcome the structural inequality of apartheid,” he said. 

    President Ramaphosa noted that the latest report from the Employment Equity Commission has revealed how far the country still have to go in ending the race-based disparities that exist in the economy. 

    Despite Africans constituting the majority of the economically active population, he said the majority of top management positions in the private sector are still held by white males. 

    This trend is observed at senior management level in nearly every economic category. Black South Africans are predominantly in the semi-skilled and unskilled categories.

    While President Ramaphosa acknowledged progress made since the introduction of employment equity legislation, he said the findings showed that much more needs to be done to transform the racial composition of economic ownership, control, and management. 

    “Employment equity is not the only area where challenges remain. The International Labour Organisation has highlighted problems of compliance with labour laws in South Africa, as well as inadequate safeguards for workers in the burgeoning informal sector.

    “That is why part of our G20 Presidency involves engagements with labour over the consolidation of worker rights. We have held fruitful discussions in this regard with the International Trade Union Confederation and others.

    “Despite these challenges, as a country we will continue to use our progressive labour laws to correct the imbalances of the past, and to ensure that these protections translate into tangible benefits for workers,” President Ramaphosa said. 

    He also called on business in particular to take the necessary measures to ensure that their workplaces reflect both the letter and spirit of laws such as the Labour Relations Act, Basic Conditions of Employment Act, Employment Equity Act and Occupational Health and Safety Act.

    “Companies should go beyond compliance by actively fostering diversity and inclusion as envisaged in our Constitution by addressing historical inequalities and create opportunities for under-represented groups among their workers, such as women, the youth and persons with disabilities. 

    “They should also ensure that their workplaces are spaces where dignity, respect and human rights are upheld in daily practice and not just in policies,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Eskom plans to avoid load shedding this winter

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Eskom is planning to avoid load shedding during the winter period, as its operational performance has improved and it expects additional capacity to come online.

    For load shedding to be avoided, unplanned outages must remain below 13 gigawatts (GW).

    “If outages increase to 15GW, load shedding would be limited to a maximum of 21 days out of 153 days at stage 2 – an improvement over the prior winter’s worst-case prediction of stage 5 load shedding,” Eskom Group Chief Executive, Dan Marokane, said on Monday, in Johannesburg.

    Addressing a media briefing on Eskom’s State of the System for the 2024/2025 financial year, Marokane said the improved winter outlook is due to a 3.1GW decrease in unplanned outages compared to the previous year. 

    As a result, the forecast range has been lowered to 13-15GW, down from 14 -17GW in winter 2024. 

    Last winter had no load shedding, with average unplanned outages at 12.3GW – significantly below the winter 2024 base-case projection of 14GW.

    “This year’s winter outlook prediction is built on an improvement in operational performance and overall efficiency. Load shedding was the lowest in Eskom’s last financial year (FY) 2025 than in the previous two years. 

    “In FY 2025, we delivered power 96% of the time. In the previous year, the figure was just 9.9%. Our diesel open cycle gas turbines (OCGTs) were utilised approximately 50% less in FY 2025 compared to the two previous financial years, saving around R16 billion,” the CEO said.

    Against this progress, Eskom has seen some setbacks in operational excellence, as evidenced by the recent load shedding requirements between January to April 2025. 

    “A targeted plan has been put in place to reinforce operational discipline and accelerate recovery initiatives to address the root causes related to the recent load shedding events,” Marokane said.

    Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, said Koeberg unit 1 has received the long-term operating go-ahead from the regulator to ensure 20 years of additional life. 

    “We have been able to restore Kusile unit 2 and 3. Kusile unit 1 will be placed back in its original form before the end of May. The three units at Kusile will give us [additional] megawatts (MW) during the winter period.

    “Kusile unit 6 has been synchronised to the grid. It is yet to be in commercial operation. It is a technical issue. It is [providing electricity] and at times, it must be taken out to be fixed. Once it gets into commercial operation, we will get the long-term benefits of the unit.

    “We plan to bring back Medupi unit 4 back to service during winter. It has been out of service for about four years. We are expecting to get about 800MW in the middle of winter,” Ramokgopa said.

    The Minister said load reduction will remain in place to protect the equipment and as a safety precaution to protect the lives of those who are close to the infrastructure when it gets overloaded due to rampant illegal connections.

    From 1 April 2024 – 31 March 2025, Eskom implemented load shedding for 13 days compared to 329 and 208 in the two previous years, respectively.

    Marokane said Eskom supplied South Africa with more electricity and reduced load shedding without the extensive use of diesel during the period under review.

    “We had a 45% reduction in diesel consumption against the backdrop of the highest send out in the last three years and the lowest load shedding days.

    “We used the OCGTs very tactically to support the high vulnerability and once we have our capacity, you will see the diesel expenditure going down significantly,” he said.

    According to Eskom Group Executive for Generation, Bheki Nxumalo, Eskom has continued to maintain high levels of planned maintenance as part of efforts to improve fleet reliability in preparation for the high winter demand, while also meeting environmental licence conditions and regulatory requirements.

    “We have evolved our Generation Recovery Plan to ensure our data-led analysis into the delays in returning units from outages on time, which has caused our fleet to be constrained and not able to accommodate a sudden loss of units, receives intense management focus, as we use our ‘high challenge, high support’ culture to support our teams to rectify this situation,” Nxumalo said. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Transformation Fund to drive inclusive economic growth

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Deputy President Paul Mashatile has lauded the launch of the Transformation Fund as a significant step towards inclusive economic growth and transformation in South Africa.

    The Deputy President was delivering a keynote address at a Business Breakfast Session and launch of the Transformation Fund at the Freedom Park Heritage Site and Museum in Pretoria on Monday. 

    “Today is an important and historic day for South Africa as it marks a key milestone in our journey towards economic transformation. We fully welcome the launch of the Transformation Fund, as it will serve as a strategic vehicle for businesses to embrace change, foster innovation, and drive growth. 

    “This fund will serve as a catalyst for financial support, guiding organisations through crucial transitions and enabling them to seize new opportunities that arise in the market,” the Deputy President said. 

    The Transformation Fund, which brings together both public and private sector contributions, aims to unlock the potential of Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) and the Equity Equivalent Investment Programme, with a strong emphasis on economic inclusion and participation by historically disadvantaged communities.

    “As enterprises seek improved access to capital and the need to remain competitive in this dynamic environment, I believe that the Transformation Fund will be invaluable. The proposed Transformation Fund will unleash Enterprise and Supplier Development’s (ESD’s) potency in driving economic inclusion and participation,” Deputy President Mashatile said. 

    He emphasised the centrality of the initiative within government’s economic agenda.

    “We are going to make sure that the Transformation Fund is at the centre of government, specifically the Presidency,” he said, adding that they will work with the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Parks Tau as well as key Economic Cluster Ministers to ensure that targets are met, especially in the procurement of goods and services.

    He noted that the National Treasury and Department of Women, Youth, and People with Disabilities have already collaborated to develop a framework. The focus now is to ensure speedy execution and equally implement the Preferential Procurement Policy Framework Act. 

    The Deputy President moved to recognise the involvement of the private sector in co-funding the initiative. 

    “It is commendable that the fund is anchored by private and public sector contributions to the Enterprise Supplier Development and Equity Equivalent Investment Programme obligations,” he said. 

    The centralised administration of the fund in partnership with business will help increase access to funding, especially for black-owned businesses operating in rural and township settings.

    “Funding will be allocated to various productive sectors of the economy, which includes, among others, services industry, tourism, and agriculture, thereby supporting majority black-owned entities. Technical support and market access will be prioritised to ensure sustainability through inclusive interventions,” he said. 

    The Deputy President underlined the long-term benefits of the fund, noting that it would foster resilience and adaptability in the face of economic challenges.

    Investing in a Transformation Fund signifies a commitment to progress and a dedication to long-term sustainability. “It will enable businesses to navigate challenges with resilience, adjust in response to changing dynamics, and establish themselves as adaptive leaders in their respective industries,” he said.

    Fighting corruption key to an inclusive economy

    The Deputy President made it clear that economic transformation cannot be achieved without tackling the scourge of corruption in both the public and private sectors.

    Corruption undermines small businesses by increasing costs, reducing profits, and creating instability.

    “To promote an inclusive economy, we must commit to addressing corruption by strengthening our institutions, fostering transparency and accountability, and promoting citizen engagement.

    “This includes developing and implementing robust anti-corruption frameworks, strengthening our criminal justice system, and encouraging public participation and oversight,” he said. 

    Access to finance for black businesses

    The Deputy President further stressed the need to find solutions pertaining to access to finance for Black businesses. 

    He emphasised that it was important to recognise that the funding deficits in South Africa are a contributing factor to the failure of small businesses. 

    Despite government intervention, such as Enterprise and Supplier Development, which is a critical component of the B-BBEE framework, he said there was still a need for additional measures to be taken to expand fund access to SMMEs. 

    “Loans are the most common financial instrument for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises in South Africa, but they often have stringent underwriting standards, making them difficult for smaller businesses with limited collateral and financial records to secure. 

    “This is why we encourage small businesses seeking financial assistance to explore government funding programmes, and business support agencies such as the National Empowerment Fund, Small Enterprise Finance Agency and the Small Enterprise Development Agency,” the Deputy President said. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Malliotakis Rallies Support for Senior Tax Relief

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11)

    (STATEN ISLAND, NY) – Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis was joined by Beth Finkel, State Director of AARP New York, Marie Santangelo, leader of all Staten Island AARP Chapters, and local senior citizens at the New Dorp Beach Friendship Club to rally support for her effort to reduce taxes on Social Security income for seniors. As a member of the House Ways & Means Committee, Malliotakis has played a key role in negotiations and is working to build momentum in Washington to pass this big, beautiful bill as part of the upcoming budget reconciliation tax package.

     

    As tax package negotiations continue, Malliotakis is working to include key provisions of her legislation in the upcoming reconciliation bill including:

     

    • H.R. 1130, The Bonus Tax Relief for America’s Seniors Act, and would amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the additional bonus deduction for seniors age 65 and over from $1,950 to $5,000 for single filers, and from $3,100 to $10,000 for married couples. On average, this bipartisan legislation would reduce federal taxes by $2,100 for married couples filing jointly earning $85,000 per year.

    • Increasing the SALT Cap, the current $10,000 cap on State and Local Tax (SALT) deductions has disproportionately impacted seniors and middle-class families in high-tax states like New York. Malliotakis is fighting to increase the deduction to provide meaningful relief to hardworking taxpayers burdened by high city & state taxes, and to ensure the Alternative Minimum Tax does not return.

     

    “As we work to finalize the details of our tax relief package, I remain hopeful that key provisions of my legislation will be included in our one big, beautiful bill to reduce the tax burden on our seniors and muddle-class families in our community,” said Rep. Nicole Malliotakis. “Too many seniors are being forced to stretch their retirement savings further than ever before. After a lifetime of hard work and paying taxes, they deserve to keep more of their Social Security and retirement income without Uncle Sam reaching into their pockets again.”

     

    “This bill is a clear recognition of both the financial pressures facing older Americans and the additional cost of the taxation of Social Security benefits, the largest source of income for most seniors. It also reflects a bipartisan understanding that our tax code should better support those who have worked hard, earned benefits, and contributed to our economy throughout their lives. By allowing more older taxpayers to keep more of their income, this legislation would improve retirement security and support independence and dignity in aging,” said Nancy A. LeaMond, AARP Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy and Engagement Officer.

     

    Malliotakis is also sponsoring other measures to ease the burden on seniors, including:

     

    • H.R. 1129, The Tax Relief Unleashed for Seniors by Trump (TRUST) Act, would increase the amount of income that is tax exempt and index the threshold to inflation, allowing seniors to keep more of their benefits. Malliotakis’ legislation would double current exempt income from $25,000 to $50,000 for single filers and from $32,000 to $64,000 for married couples age 65 and older.

    • H.R. 2266, The Reducing Excessive Taxation and Inefficiencies by Reforming Elder Exemptions to Support Fairness, Inflation Relief, and Simpler Taxes Act (RETIREES FIRST Act) aimed at modernizing outdated Social Security tax thresholds to deliver tax relief to middle-class retirees.

     

    Today, nearly 56% of retirees pay taxes on their Social Security benefits, compared to less than 10% in 1984 when the Social Security exemptions were first established. As this figure is projected to rise further, Malliotakis is taking action having introduced legislation to raise the provisional income thresholds to $34,000 for single filers and $68,000 for married filers—up from the current levels of $25,000 and $32,000, respectively. The legislation would exempt most middle-class retirees from paying taxes on their Social Security benefits by reducing their tax burden.

    The income thresholds for taxation of benefits have remained unchanged since first established by Congress in 1984. At the time, less than 10 percent of beneficiaries paid federal income tax on their benefits, but because wages have increased, the proportion of beneficiaries who must pay federal income tax on benefits has risen over time.

    LINKS TO LEGISLATIVE TEXTS

    H.R. 1130 HERE

    H.R. 1129 HERE

    H.R. 2266 HERE

     

    In addition to reducing the tax burden on America’s seniors, Malliotakis as a member of the House Committee on Ways & Means and is acutely focused on increasing the State and Local Tax Deduction (SALT), and increasing domestic production by incentivizing companies to bring their manufacturing facilities and supply chains home.

    Watch The Press Conference HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Nuclear Desalination: A Sustainable Solution for Water Security in the Arab Region

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    Jordan: Advancing SMR-Powered Desalination

    Jordan, where 75 per cent of the land is classified as arid desert, is taking significant steps toward nuclear desalination. The government is exploring Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), compact reactors that could power desalination plants. In 2023, an IAEA team evaluated Jordan’s studies on using SMRs to provide drinking water from the Red Sea to Amman, where water demand is rising.

    “Desalination is considered the primary source of fresh water in Jordan to fulfil the expected demand and reduce the supply-demand deficit,” says Khalid Khasawneh, Commissioner for Nuclear Power Reactors at the Jordan Atomic Energy Commission (JAEC). “It offers competitive prices for fresh water to end consumers, in comparison with imported energy sources.”

    Saudi Arabia: The Desalination Leader Exploring Nuclear

    Saudi Arabia, already the world’s largest desalinated water producer, began exploring the use of nuclear energy for desalination in the late 1970s. As part of its strategy to move from an oil-based economy toward a diversified power production, the country is now considering nuclear plants to achieve its net zero ambitions and meet its long-term water needs.

    According to the King Abdullah City for Atomic and Renewable Energy (KACARE), “the Kingdom is planning a sustainable energy mix that includes atomic energy to meet the energy needs of the Kingdom to produce electricity, desalinated water and thermal energy,” which aims to reduce reliance on hydrocarbons and support economic growth.

    Egypt: Nuclear Power and Water Strategy

    Egypt is also integrating nuclear technology into its water strategy. With the country’s first nuclear power plant, El-Dabaa, under construction, discussions are underway about pairing nuclear energy with desalination in coastal regions. According to the Egyptian State Information Service: “Nuclear energy contributes to enhancing energy security and achieving environmental balance and water security.” As “nuclear facilities can supply the energy required for desalination plants to produce potable water.”

    Kuwait: Exploring Nuclear Desalination for Sustainable Water Solutions

    Kuwait, which depends heavily on seawater desalination to meet its freshwater needs, is increasingly turning to nuclear technologies to find more sustainable solutions for water and the environment. “Kuwait is facing the effect of climate change, ocean acidification, pollution from the oil and shipping industry, power and desalination activities,” said Nader Al-Awadi, the Executive Commissioner for International Cooperation at the Kuwait Institute of Scientific Research (KISR). In line with its efforts to address these environmental challenges, Kuwait has also established a large-scale facility to carry out research on ocean acidification, aiming to further understand the impacts of changing ocean conditions on marine ecosystems, which are directly tied to the effectiveness of desalination technologies.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Zimbabwe’s Finance Minister to Present Energy Investment Outlook at Invest in African Energy (IAE) 2025

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    PARIS, France, May 5, 2025/APO Group/ —

    Mthuli Ncube, Zimbabwe’s Minister of Finance, Economic Planning and Investment Promotion, will address global investors at the Invest in African Energy (IAE) 2025 Forum in Paris next week. As a keynote speaker, Minister Ncube will present Zimbabwe’s energy investment outlook, economic reform agenda and efforts to mobilize private capital across the power, hydrocarbons and renewable energy value chains.

    Zimbabwe is targeting rapid energy sector expansion to meet rising industrial and consumer demand, reduce reliance on electricity imports and support long-term economic transformation. Key investment opportunities span power generation, transmission infrastructure, oil and gas exploration and the deployment of renewable energy – with a particular emphasis on solar and hydroelectric resources. The country is estimated to have a $4.8-billion funding gap for large-scale solar projects and is actively working to expand the pool of available capital. Efforts are also underway to enhance financial inclusion and secure more favorable terms for foreign investors in energy infrastructure.

    IAE 2025 (http://apo-opa.co/3GH3mpN) is an exclusive forum designed to facilitate investment between African energy markets and global investors. Taking place May 13-14, 2025 in Paris, the event offers delegates two days of intensive engagement with industry experts, project developers, investors and policymakers. For more information, please visit www.Invest-Africa-Energy.com. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.

    Meanwhile, Zimbabwe is home to the Muzarabani Prospect in the north, currently being explored by Australian-listed Invictus Energy. The company has identified eight high-potential gas and condensate prospects in the eastern portion of its Cabora Bassa Basin project, with the Musuma prospect emerging as a key target for exploration drilling in 2025. Recent survey results revealed significant prospectivity in the eastern basin, estimating approximately 2.9 trillion cubic feet of gas and 184 million barrels of condensate across the eight prospects on a gross mean unrisked basis.

    Minister Ncube’s participation signals Zimbabwe’s commitment to fostering an enabling investment environment and positioning energy as a central pillar of national development. The country’s strategic location, resource potential and improving macroeconomic stability make it a compelling destination for long-term infrastructure and energy investment.

    “Minister Ncube’s keynote will offer investors direct insight into the policy direction and financing mechanisms shaping Zimbabwe’s energy future. His presence at IAE 2025 underscores the country’s strong push to deepen international investment partnerships in support of energy access and industrialization,” says Sandra Jeque, Events & Project Director at Energy Capital & Power.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Unlock what’s next: Microsoft at May 19-22 Red Hat Summit 2025

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: Unlock what’s next: Microsoft at May 19-22 Red Hat Summit 2025

    Learn more about the solutions that Microsoft and Red Hat have to offer that drive technological advancements and empower organizations.

    As the tech world eagerly anticipates Red Hat Summit 2025, Microsoft is proud to announce its role as a platinum sponsor at the event. Red Hat Summit is a premier enterprise open source event for IT professionals to learn, collaborate, and innovate on technologies from the datacenter and public cloud to edge and beyond. This year, Microsoft’s collaboration with Red Hat promises to be a highlight, showcasing the power of partnership and the innovative solutions that arise from it. 

    Over the years, this partnership has achieved significant milestones, transforming the way businesses operate and deliver value to their customers. By combining Microsoft’s cloud expertise with Red Hat’s open-source leadership, we have created a synergy that drives technological advancements and empowers organizations to achieve more. 

    One of the key benefits of this partnership is the seamless integration of Red Hat technologies with Microsoft Azure. This integration provides customers with a robust and flexible platform to build, deploy, and manage their applications. Whether it’s modernizing legacy systems or developing new cloud-native applications, the combination of Azure and Red Hat offers a plethora of capabilities and support. For instance, Red Hat OpenShift on Azure enables organizations to run containerized applications with ease, leveraging the scalability and security of Azure. Additionally, Red Hat Enterprise Linux on Azure provides a reliable and secure operating system for mission-critical workloads.

    Build your next great app with free Azure services today >

    At Red Hat Summit 2025, attendees will have the opportunity to explore these technologies in depth. Microsoft and Red Hat will showcase new features and integrations that enhance the capabilities of Azure and Red Hat solutions. From improved performance to enhanced security, these advancements are designed to meet the evolving needs of businesses in today’s digital landscape. 

    • RHEL for WSL: Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) is now available for use with Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL). WSL is a feature of Microsoft Windows that allows developers to run Linux distributions. With RHEL for WSL, developers can run a RHEL development environment on Windows without having to spin up a traditional virtual machine (VM). With a no-cost Red Hat Developer subscription, developers can download the latest release of RHEL as a WSL image during their install and easily run both Windows and RHEL at the same time on their Windows machine.
    • Azure Red Hat OpenShift: Microsoft and Red Hat are enhancing security with Confidential Containers on Azure Red Hat OpenShift, now in public preview. This feature offers hardware-level protection for workloads via memory encryption and secure execution environments, addressing compliance needs in sectors like healthcare and financial services. Managed identity for Azure Red Hat OpenShift is also in public preview, transitioning organizations from static service principals to dynamic, token-based credentials. This reduces operational complexity and security risks, facilitating container platform adoption in regulated environments. Azure Red Hat OpenShift has expanded to the Spain Central region with plans for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Central and Microsoft Azure Government (MAG) regions by Q2 2025. Enhancements include OpenShift 4.16 support, enterprise-grade cluster-wide proxy, and Ddsv5 instance performance optimization. Additionally, OpenShift Virtualization on Azure Red Hat OpenShift is entering public preview, enabling customers to accelerate VM migration to Azure without refactoring while unifying management of VMs and containers on a single platform. 
    • RHEL landing zone: The Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) on Azure Landing Zone guide provides everything needed to deploy, manage, and scale RHEL instances using Azure-specific system images. Software lifecycle automation is simplified with Red Hat Satellite and Red Hat Satellite Capsule, ensuring timely updates and patches. Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery (BCDR) are enhanced through Azure’s on-demand capacity reservations, guaranteeing reliable availability in Azure regions. Optimized identity management infrastructure deployment minimizes latencies and eliminates replication failures.
    • Application awareness and wave planning in Azure Migrate: The new application-aware method sets the stage for grouping dependent resources into waves and provides technical and business insights for the entire application to help you decide on Azure targets and tooling. Migrate applications with dependent workloads, as one to collocate in Azure for optimal performance and cost. 
    • JBoss EAP on App Service: JBoss EAP on App Service is a jointly developed and supported managed solution from Red Hat and Microsoft for running enterprise Java applications with maximum productivity. We have recently made important changes to make JBoss EAP on App Service as cost-effective as possible. This includes a 60% plus license fee price reduction for Pay-As-You-Go plans, memory optimized SKUs, a free tier for a lower barrier to entry, the availability of JBoss EAP 8, as well as a soon-to-be-released ability to Bring-Your-Own-Subscription to App Service. 
    • JBoss EAP on Azure Virtual Machines: Robust solutions to run JBoss EAP on Azure Virtual Machines are now generally available (GA). The solutions are developed and supported by Red Hat and Microsoft. The solutions include templates available in the Azure Portal to automate most boilerplate resource provisioning tasks. The solutions also include JBoss EAP VM images published in the Azure Marketplace. 

    Customer success stories 

    The success of the Microsoft and Red Hat partnership is best demonstrated through the experiences of our customers. Organizations across various industries have leveraged Azure and Red Hat solutions to achieve remarkable results. For example, Teranet utilized Azure Red Hat OpenShift for a digital transformation, migrating mission-critical systems from on-premises to Azure. Outcomes included improved automation, enhanced customer confidence, and significant cost savings to the tune of CA5.6 million. 

    Western Sydney University adopted Red Hat Enterprise Linux on Azure to enhance the security and reliability of its critical systems. 

    By providing innovative solutions and exceptional support, we empower our customers to overcome challenges and drive business growth. 

    What to expect at Red Hat Summit 2025 

    Red Hat Summit 2025 promises to be an exciting event, with a wide range of sessions, workshops, and presentations. Microsoft will be actively involved, sharing insights and expertise on various topics. Attendees can look forward to exclusive announcements and product launches that will shape the future of technology. 

    This is a unique opportunity to connect with industry leaders and gain valuable insights into the latest trends and innovations. Our vision is to deliver cutting-edge solutions that enable organizations to thrive in the digital age. We remain committed to our customers, ensuring that they have access to the best technologies and support.

    Learn more about Red Hat on Azure

    Join us to explore the innovative solutions that Microsoft and Red Hat have to offer. Register now to attend the summit and engage with our experts to learn more about how our collaboration can benefit your organization. 

    Visit the Red Hat on Azure page to learn more about our offerings and join us at the Microsoft booth number 424 at Red Hat Summit 2025!

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reconciliation Recommendations of the House Committee on Armed Services

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    Legislation Summary

    H. Con. Res. 14, the Concurrent Resolution on the Budget for Fiscal Year 2025, instructed the House Committee on Armed Services to recommend legislative changes that would increase deficits up to a specified amount over the 2025-2034 period. As part of the reconciliation process, the House Committee on Armed Services approved legislation on April 29, 2025, that would increase deficits.

    Estimated Federal Cost

    In CBO’s estimation, the reconciliation recommendations of the House Committee on Armed Services would increase deficits by $144.0 billion over the 2025-2034 period. The estimated budgetary effects of the legislation are shown in Table 1. The costs of the legislation fall within budget functions 050 (national defense) and 700 (veterans benefits and services).

    Table 1.

    Estimated Budgetary Effects of Reconciliation Recommendations Title ll, House Committee on Armed Services, as Ordered Reported on April 29, 2025
     

    By Fiscal Year, Millions of Dollars

    		    
     

    2025

    2026

    2027

    2028

    2029

    2030

    2031

    2032

    2033

    2034

    2025-2029

    2025-2034
     

    Increases or Decreases (-) in Direct Spending

    		    

    Budget Authority

    150,273

    125

    -2,290

    -708

    180

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    147,580

    147,580

    Estimated Outlays

    1,957

    40,299

    42,019

    23,548

    16,779

    9,367

    4,878

    2,889

    1,514

    742

    124,602

    143,992

    Basis of Estimate

    For this estimate, CBO assumes that the legislation will be enacted in summer 2025. CBO’s estimates are relative to its January 2025 baseline and cover the period from 2025 through 2034. Outlays of appropriated amounts were estimated using historical obligation and spending rates for similar programs.

    Direct Spending

    Enacting this legislation would increase direct spending by $144.0 billion over the 2025‑2034 period. (see Table 2). Almost all of that amount would result from specified direct appropriations for defense activities ($142.8 billion in outlays), with additional estimated amounts related to changes to military housing privatization authorities 
    ($1.2 billion in outlays).

    Appropriated Amounts

    The legislation would appropriate $150.3 billion for 2025. Of that amount, almost all would be for the Department of Defense (DoD), with the remainder for nuclear weapons activities of the Department of Energy ($3.2 billion) and the Armed Forces Retirement Home ($6 million). CBO expects that amounts appropriated by this legislation would be subject to sequestration under the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985. CBO estimates that a portion of any unobligated balances from those appropriations would be canceled in 2027, 2028, and 2029, which would reduce the budget authority provided by this legislation. After adjusting for the effects of sequestration, CBO estimates that, on net, specified budget authority would total about $146.3 billion and outlays from that budget authority would total $142.8 billion over the 2025-2034 period. The following sections would appropriate specific amounts for the following purposes:

    • Section 20002 would appropriate $33.8 billion for shipbuilding programs, increasing outlays by $31.8 billion;
    • Section 20003 would appropriate $24.7 billion for air and missile defense activities, increasing outlays by $23.5 billion;
    • Section 20004 would provide $20.7 billion for the acquisition of munitions and sustainment of the defense industrial base, increasing outlays by $19.5 billion;
    • Section 20005 would appropriate $13.5 billion to expedite the delivery of low-cost weapons and capabilities, increasing outlays by $13.0 billion;
    • Section 20006 would appropriate $0.4 billion to improve the audit readiness of DoD’s financial statements and for cybersecurity programs, increasing outlays by $0.4 billion;
    • Section 20007 would provide $7.3 billion for air superiority programs, increasing outlays by $6.8 billion;
    • Section 20008 would provide $12.9 billion for improvements to nuclear forces (of which $3.2 billion would be for the Department of Energy), increasing outlays by $12.6 billion;
    • Section 20009 would appropriate $11.1 billion to improve the capabilities of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, increasing outlays by $10.5 billion;
    • Section 20010 would appropriate $11.5 billion to improve military readiness, increasing outlays by $10.9 billion;
    • Section 20011 would appropriate $5.0 billion for border security activities, increasing outlays by $4.9 billion;
    • Section 20012 would appropriate $2.0 billion for military intelligence programs, increasing outlays by $1.9 billion;
    • Section 20013 would appropriate $10 million for oversight activities by the DoD Inspector General, increasing outlays by $9 million; and
    • Section 20001 would increase budget authority by $8.5 billion. Of that amount, $7.3 billion would be specifically appropriated for efforts to improve the quality of life for members of the armed forces, increasing outlays by $6.9 billion.[1] The remaining budget authority and outlays in section 20001 would arise from changes to housing privatization authorities, described in the next section.

    Estimated Amounts

    Section 20001 would modify authorities related to the privatization of military housing that CBO estimates would increase direct spending by $1.2 billion over the 2025-2034 period.

    To finance housing privatization projects, DoD typically enters into long-term contracts with private-sector developers to renovate, construct, operate, and maintain military housing. Those developers leverage DoD contributions, along with expected future Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) payments for military personnel, to borrow additional capital to complete the projects.

    CBO considers acquiring housing for military personnel in that manner to be a governmental activity, and that amounts expended by such public-private ventures should be recorded in the federal budget as outlays at the time they occur. When proposed legislation would affect transactions involving third-party financing of governmental activities, CBO’s cost estimate for the legislation shows budget authority for the full cost of the project at the time the project is initiated. Outlays are shown over the construction period for each project. In cost estimates, CBO classifies those cash flows as direct spending.

    Subsection 20001(b) would increase, through 2029, the limit on the amount of funding that DoD can contribute to privatization projects. Measured by the total capital costs of a project, the section would raise DoD’s authorized contribution threshold from 33.3 percent to 60 percent. CBO expects that providing additional funding would facilitate DoD privatization projects that are not financially viable under current law.

    CBO estimates that extra funding would allow DoD to initiate one additional privatized housing project by 2029. Based on the cost of previous projects, CBO estimates that the new project would cost $500 million. To account for the uncertainty regarding the timing of that project, CBO evenly distributed the estimated budget authority over the 2026‑2029 period. Thus, after accounting for the time needed to complete the construction of the project, CBO estimates that increasing the funding limit would increase direct spending by $450 million over the 2025-2034 period.

    Subsection 20001(c) would authorize DoD to pay higher rates of BAH through 2029 to unaccompanied service members living in military housing (such as barracks) provided under the Military Housing Privatization Initiative. CBO expects that the increased payments would facilitate DoD privatization projects that are not financially viable under the current amounts for that allowance.

    CBO estimates that in each year from 2027 through 2029, DoD would initiate one project for unaccompanied housing as a result of the higher rates. Based on the cost of previous projects and adjusting for inflation, CBO estimates that, on average, projects would cost $270 million each. Accounting for the time necessary to complete each project, CBO estimates that enacting the higher BAH would increase direct spending by $780 million over the 2025‑2034 period.

    Uncertainty

    Unobligated balances of appropriations provided by this legislation would be subject to sequestration procedures. The amount sequestered would depend on how quickly the agencies can obligate the provided amounts. If obligation rates differ from CBO’s estimates, the amount of balances canceled through sequestration could be greater or less than estimated here.

    In addition, the cost and number of the military housing privatization projects arising from the temporary authorities in section 20001 could differ from CBO’s estimates.

    Pay-As-You-Go Considerations

    The Statutory Pay-As-You-Go Act of 2010 establishes budget-reporting and enforcement procedures for legislation affecting direct spending or revenues. The net changes in outlays that are subject to those pay-as-you-go procedures are shown in Table 1.

    Increase in Long-Term Net Direct Spending and Deficits

    CBO estimates that enacting the legislation would not increase net direct spending or on‑budget deficits in any of the four consecutive 10-year periods beginning in 2035.

    Mandates

    The legislation contains no intergovernmental or private-sector mandates as defined in the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act.

    Mandates: Brandon Lever

    Estimate Reviewed By

    David Newman
    Chief, Defense, International Affairs, and Veterans’ Affairs Cost Estimates Unit

    Kathleen FitzGerald
    Chief, Public and Private Mandates Unit

    Christina Hawley Anthony
    Deputy Director of Budget Analysis

    H. Samuel Papenfuss
    Deputy Director of Budget Analysis

    Chad Chirico 
    Director of Budget Analysis

    Phillip L. Swagel

    Director, Congressional Budget Office

    [Table 2 begins on the next page.]

    Estimated Changes in Direct Spending Under Reconciliation Recommendations
    Title ll, House Committee on Armed Services, as Ordered Reported on April 29, 2025

    (Continued)

     

    By Fiscal Year, Millions of Dollars

         

    2025

    2026

    2027

    2028

    2029

    2030

    2031

    2032

    2033

    2034

    2025-2029

    2025-2034

     

    Increases or Decreases (-) in Direct Spending

       

    Sec. 20011, Border Security

                         

    Budget Authority

    5,000

    0

    -21

    -12

    -4

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    4,963

    4,963

    Estimated Outlays

    151

    3,569

    958

    113

    41

    19

    10

    0

    0

    0

    4,832

    4,861

    Sec. 20012, Intelligence Programs

                         

    Budget Authority

    2,000

    0

    -13

    -8

    -3

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    1,976

    1,976

    Estimated Outlays

    42

    1,006

    573

    178

    81

    32

    14

    4

    2

    0

    1,880

    1,932

    Sec. 20013, Inspector General

                         

    Budget Authority

    10

    0

    -1

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    9

    9

    Estimated Outlays

    0

    2

    1

    3

    3

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    9

    9

    Sec. 20001, Quality of Lifea

                           

    Budget Authority

    7,315

    125

    243

    381

    400

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    8,464

    8,464

    Estimated Outlays

    463

    4,218

    2,010

    257

    308

    350

    275

    164

    70

    30

    7,256

    8,145

    Total Changes

                         

    Budget Authority

    150,273

    125

    -2,290

    -708

    180

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    147,580

    147,580

    Estimated Outlays

    1,957

    40,299

    42,019

    23,548

    16,779

    9,367

    4,878

    2,889

    1,514

    742

    124,602

    143,992

    Memorandums:

                           

    Military Housing Privatizationa

                         

    Estimated Budget Authority

    0

    125

    395

    395

    405

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    1,320

    1,320

    Estimated Outlays

    0

    0

    30

    130

    240

    310

    260

    160

    70

    30

    400

    1,230

    Sequestrationb

                           

    Estimated Budget Authority

    0

    0

    -2,685

    -1,103

    -225

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    -4,013

    -4,013

    Estimated Outlays

    0

    0

    -2,685

    -1,103

    -225

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    -4,013

    -4,013

    a.In addition to the amounts specifically appropriated, section 20001 would modify military housing privatization authorities, which CBO estimates would increase direct spending by $1.2 billion over the 2025-2034 period. Those amounts are included in the $8.5 billion in budget authority and $8.1 billion in outlays for section 20001. The amounts shown here are included in the estimate for section 20001.

    b.In total, this legislation would specifically appropriate $150.3 billion. Unobligated balances from those amounts would be subject to sequestration under the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985. CBO estimates that a portion of any unobligated balances from those appropriations would be canceled in 2027, 2028, and 2029, which could reduce the budget authority provided in this legislation. The estimated reductions in budget authority and outlays from the sequestration of unobligated balances are included in each section for which CBO estimates there would be unobligated balances and in the Total Changes above.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Polis, Union Pacific Railroad Officials Celebrate Signing of Historic Partnership on Moffat Tunnel Lease Agreement and Mountain Passenger Rail Agreement

    Source: US State of Colorado

    DENVER – Today, Governor Polis and Union Pacific Railroad President Beth Whited, celebrated the signing of a historic lease agreement for Colorado’s Moffat Tunnel, replacing the original 1926 lease. This new agreement follows the Memorandum of Understanding signed on November 1, 2024, and includes a 25-year lease, a 25 year access agreement for Mountain Passenger Rail, and finalizing the purchase and sale of the Burnham lead line which will unlock transit-oriented development potential for the Burnham Yard property. This public-private partnership assures continued freight operations through the Moffat Tunnel for 25 years with established passenger rail access from Denver through the Moffat Tunnel to Winter Park, Granby, Steamboat Springs and Craig for soon-to-be Mountain Passenger Rail Service, bringing new transportation options and economic opportunities to Colorado communities. These three agreements demonstrate a new model of collaboration that can support the state’s needs for moving goods and commerce and giving Coloradans more transportation options. 

    “This agreement begins a new era of partnership between the State of Colorado and Union Pacific that will expand passenger rail into our beautiful Rocky Mountains, assure continued freight movement through the Continental Divide, and unlock access to the Burnham Yard, a very special state property with unparalleled transit-oriented development potential. Moffat Tunnel represents an important part of Colorado’s history, as well as a bright part of our future. With this work, we are showing the country a new model for pursuing passenger rail through collaboration with the railroad. I am thrilled with the three new agreements and look forward to seeing the positive benefits to our state,” said Governor Jared Polis. 

    “Mountain rail Service will soon run year-round from Denver Union Station to Winter Park, to Fraser, to Granby, Steamboat Springs, Craig and Hayden, a corridor renowned for its scenery and beauty,” continued Governor Polis. 

    Mountain Rail Service Pattern Map showing the route from Denver to Craig. 

    “Union Pacific is proud of the hard work and spirit of collaboration that went into this agreement with the State of Colorado. We came together as true partners and the result is an agreement that benefits the citizens of Colorado and the businesses and people who rely upon Union Pacific to deliver the goods and material vital to today’s economy,” said Union Pacific President Beth Whited. 

    “It was an honor to help lead the Colorado negotiation team on this unique partnership that will benefit the state of Colorado for the next 25 years. When this daily train service begins connecting Denver to Winter Park, Granby, Steamboat Springs, and on to Craig it will undoubtedly be one of the most beautiful train rides in the country if not the world and provide a safe, affordable alternative to being stuck in traffic. I am thrilled we were able to purchase the Burnham Lead line, a short freight line easement. This purchase unlocks safe passage into the Burnham Yard property, the original rail yard of Colorado that predates statehood and one of the last undeveloped parcels in Denver. The new lease,

     the new access agreement, and the purchase of the Burnham lead line are a win, wi,n and win for the state of Colorado. I want to thank the Union Pacific team for their efforts and creative problem solving that made these agreements possible,” said Lisa Kaufmann, Senior Strategic Advisor for Governor Polis. 

    “Today’s agreement will offer residents and visitors throughout Colorado new opportunities and choices to get where they’re going. More passenger rail trips between the Front Range and mountain communities in Winter Park, Granby, and beyond will offer an option in addition to the drive over Berthoud Pass. The purchase of the Burnham lead line will also improve local mobility surrounding Lincoln Park in Denver, ensuring this historic neighborhood can continue to offer residents safe access to all the surrounding amenities,” said CDOT Chief of Staff Sally Chafee. 

    The 25-year access agreement establishes Colorado’s license for three daily roundtrips or up to 506,000 train miles annually for Mountain Passenger Rail, as the payment from Union Pacific for their use of the Moffat Tunnel for 25 years. The state plans to start a daily roundtrip year-round to Granby by 2026 and flexibility for the state to expand service in future phases to connect Denver to Winter Park Resorts, Granby, Steamboat Springs on to Craig and Hayden. Future phases will commence after a procurement process for a designated contract operator and upon needed capital improvements completed that are identified in the access agreement. highlighted by traveling under the continental divide through the 6.2 mile long Moffat Tunnel, the highest operating railroad tunnel in the United States.

      The Moffat Tunnel has been one of the first and most successful public private partnerships in Colorado’s history, where 6 counties and private investors came together over a 100 years ago to build the Moffat Tunnel to ensure Denver as the commerce hub of the Rocky Mountain West, after Union Pacific the first transcontinental railroad bypassed Colorado and routed through Wyoming instead. For 99 years Union Pacific or their predecessors have held a lease that expired on May 1, 2025. 

    The 100-year-old, 6.2-mile-long Moffat Tunnel cuts through the Continental Divide at 9,239 feet above sea level. Created to provide an important east-to-west connection from Denver to the West coast for commerce, the Moffat Tunnel helped Denver become a center of commerce and growth in the Rockies. 

    Demand for rail transportation in Colorado is significant. In partnership with Amtrak and Winter Park Resorts, the state made investments to lower the cost and increase the frequency of the Winter Park Ski train. During the 2024-25 ski season, Coloradans and visitors booked more than 44,000 trips on the Ski train compared to 17,500 last season – a 153% increase.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Florida Man Sentenced to 9 Years in Federal Prison for Multi-Year $1.1M Retail Fraud Scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CHARLESTON, S.C. — Daniel Cavey, 51, of Jacksonville Beach, Florida, has been sentenced to nine years in federal prison for his role in a multi-year wire fraud scheme to defraud a chain of home improvement stores. 

    Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that Daniel Cavey, along with his conspirators, were involved in an extensive, multi-state scheme to defraud a chain of home improvement stores. Cavey, and others, would gain access to corporate accounts and then create fraudulent forms of identification for authorized users on the corporate account. Once at the home improvement store, Cavey would shop and charge the purchases to the various corporate accounts. Once the merchandise had been fraudulently obtained, Cavey would sell it for a profit. 

    “Defrauding businesses in this manner not only causes financial harm to the business but also drives up prices for consumers,” said U.S. Attorney Bryan P. Stirling for the District of South Carolina. “This prosecution demonstrates our commitment to holding individuals accountable for complex financial crimes and protecting our business community from such elaborate schemes.”

    “The success of this investigation is a testament to the strong partnerships between the U.S. Secret Service, local law enforcement and the private sector,” said Ben Stafford, Resident Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service Charleston Resident Office. “This sentencing reflects the seriousness of the crimes committed and sends a message that defrauding businesses and individuals in our state will not be tolerated. I appreciate the hard work and commitment of our South Carolina partners, especially the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the Charleston Police Department, and Synchrony Bank’s Special Investigations Team.”

    United States District David C. Norton sentenced Cavey to 108 months imprisonment, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision.  The sentence was broken down as follows: 84-months for counts 1 and 2 and 24 months for count 8, which charged Cavey with aggravated identity theft. There is no parole in the federal system. Cavey was also ordered to pay $1,126,686.29 in restitution.

    This case was investigated by the United States Secret Service and the City of Charleston Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Bower is prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Mark Carney heads to Washington: His visit with Trump kicks off high-wire politics in Canada

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Thomas Klassen, Professor, School of Public Policy and Administration, York University, Canada

    Prime Minister Mark Carney is headed to Washington, D.C., for a high-stakes meeting with Donald Trump as the American president continues his trade war and annexation threats against Canada.

    “We are meeting as heads of our government,” Carney said at a news conference late last week. “I am not pretending those discussions will be easy.”

    The White House visit comes just a week after Carney led the Liberals to their fourth consecutive election victory.

    It was a result that, at first blush, allowed each party to claim that it won, or at least that it did not totally lose. That sets up a Parliamentary session that will feature several interesting dynamics.

    The Conservatives under Pierre Poilievre won several more seats than in 2021 and their highest share of the national vote in decades, though Poilievre himself lost his seat.



    Read more:
    Canada’s Conservatives, with an assist from Donald Trump, are down — but they’re far from out

    The NDP under an outgoing Jagmeet Singh managed to hold onto the balance of power in the upcoming minority Parliament for a third consecutive time. Elizabeth May continues to represent the Green Party in the House of Commons. Yves-François Blanchet kept the Bloc Québécois relevant for voters in Québec.

    Even Justin Trudeau, no longer in politics, won — his legacy is not in the gutter due to a predicted Conservative majority win that never materialized once Carney replaced him.

    But in the coming weeks and months, the leaders and their parties face difficult circumstances that could turn them into losers — most importantly, how Carney manages the relationship with Trump.

    The role of Trump

    Carney and the Liberals capitalized on exceptional
    circumstances     driven by Donald Trump’s trade war and threats to make Canada the 51st state. Winning four consecutive elections is a rare feat for any political party in Canada.
    But Carney cannot count on fortune continuing to smile upon him. He must now manage a party within which he has little history and few favours to call in — a party that he has dragged from centre-left under Trudeau to centre-right.

    The new prime minister will have to rely on aides and advisers to a much greater extent than all former office-holders who had years or decades of experience in the political area, including the House of Commons. At the same time, he will have to demonstrate to Canadians that he is in charge and makes the final decisions.

    Invariably, there will be Liberal missteps in the weeks ahead: ethical lapses for some MPs, ministerial appointments that go awry and disappointment among those not appointed to cabinet. Because Carney has been prime minister for less than two months, the upcoming Speech from the Throne on May 27 — to be delivered by King Charles — that sets the government’s goals is shrouded in mystery.

    Beyond Ottawa, premiers from several different political parties — each with their own agenda — await Carney. South of the border, the unpredictable Trump, with his infuriating rhetoric and disruptive actions, is in office for another three-and-half-years.

    As a newcomer to politics elected on his first attempt to the country’s highest political office, Carney could have at least have one topic of conversation in common with Trump when they meet on Tuesday. Trump too was a political outsider who catapulted into office on his first attempt. The two may find some bond in their shared experience.

    The greatest danger for Carney is not from Trump’s rhetoric but from broader economic conditions. He ran for office on the promise of being able to manage economic turmoil. But politicians of any stripe have little control in a global economic slump or an all-out tariff war. If unemployment, inflation or the cost-of-living tick upward, Carney will quickly lose his lustre among many Canadians.

    The new Parliament

    For the Conservatives, Poilievre’s leadership will continue to weigh on the party in the weeks and months ahead. Losing his Ottawa seat weakens his claim to stay on as leader. He now needs to win a byelection in Alberta triggered by the resignation of Conservative MP Damien Kurek.

    The worst outcome for the party is years of infighting between those who support giving Poilievre one more chance and those who believe that 2025 is the best the party can do under his leadership.

    The best outcome is for Poilievre to become a bridge-builder within the party and to Conservatives across Canada, and to rebrand himself to be more palatable to Canadian voters. This will not be easy and he hasn’t shown much inclination to do so.

    The NDP’s Singh has already announced his resignation and accepted responsibility for the party electing only seven MPs. A period of soul-searching leading to a leadership contest has already started. The loss of seats, and returning to Ottawa with an interim leader, lessens the voice of the party in political discourse. If a new leader is elected who is not an MP, the party will be further hampered.

    The Greens remain in the House of Commons, but as a party of one. The jury continues is out on whether the party can exist without its leader, Elizabeth May, who has said she wouldn’t rule out joining Carney’s cabinet.

    Blanchet returns to Ottawa with fewer Bloc MPs and a murky mission. He had hoped that the Bloc would hold the balance of power once the votes were counted, but was foiled by the NDP. He has already faced criticism from his own supporters when he promised to collaborate with other parties in Ottawa to secure Canada’s economic future.

    Beginning with Carney’s handling of Trump this week, how skilfully each party, and leader, performs its distinct high-wire act in the next months will determine the ultimate winners and losers. The show is about to start.

    Thomas Klassen does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Mark Carney heads to Washington: His visit with Trump kicks off high-wire politics in Canada – https://theconversation.com/mark-carney-heads-to-washington-his-visit-with-trump-kicks-off-high-wire-politics-in-canada-255675

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst, Markey Celebrate American Spirit of Entrepreneurship During National Small Business Week

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)

    Published: May 5, 2025

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship Chair Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and Ranking Member Ed Markey (D-Mass.) led 81 of their colleagues in declaring this week as “National Small Business Week” to recognize the innovators and job creators who power our economy.
    “Small businesses are the lifeblood of Iowa’s economy, making up more than 99% of all businesses,” said Ernst. “These shops mean so much more than the livelihoods they support and the jobs they create, they embody the American spirit and shape the culture of big cities and rural communities across America. These innovators drive our nation forward every day, I’m proud to recognize their tremendous contributions.”
    “This National Small Business Week, we celebrate the contributions of small businesses that create jobs, drive our local economies, and make up the fabric of our communities,” said Markey. “By supporting local businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs, we make our communities and our country stronger. I’m committed to ensuring that our nation’s 34 million small businesses and the 722,500 small businesses in Massachusetts receive the tools and resources they need to compete and thrive.”
    There are more than 34.7 million small businesses in America, accounting for more than 99.9% of all businesses and employing 45.9% of American workers, or about 59 million people.
    Click here to read the resolution.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: The Board of Directors of KH Group Plc resolved to establish a performance share plan for the Group’s key employees

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    KH Group Plc
    Stock Exchange Release 5 May 2025 at 9:15 pm EEST

    The Board of Directors of KH Group Plc resolved to establish a performance share plan for the Group’s key employees

    The Board of Directors of KH Group Plc resolved to establish a performance share plan for the key employees of KH-Koneet. The plan replaces the performance matching share plan announced on 31 May 2024. The aim of the new plan is to align the objectives of the shareholders and key employees to increase the value of the company in the long term, to steer them toward achieving the company’s strategic objectives, to retain them at the company and to offer them a competitive incentive plan that is based on acquiring and accumulating KH Group shares.

    The performance share plan consists of one (1) two-year (2-year) performance period, covering the financial years of 2025–2026. In the plan, the key employees have an opportunity to earn KH Group shares based on performance.

    The potential rewards from the plan will be paid within five months after the end of the performance period. The rewards will be paid partly in KH Group shares and partly in cash. The cash proportion is intended to cover taxes and social security contributions arising from the reward to the participant. As a rule, no reward will be paid if a participant’s employment or service terminates before the reward payment.

    The performance criteria for the key employees of KH-Koneet are based on KH-Koneet’s EBIT in 2026 and Return on Invested Capital in 2026.

    The target group of the plan consists of approximately 20 persons, including members of the KH-Koneet Management. The rewards to be paid on the basis of the plan correspond to the value of an approximate maximum total of 1,094,000 KH Group shares, including also the proportion to be paid in cash. 

    The members of KH-Koneet Management are obliged to hold 50 per cent of the reward shares received, until the total value of the Management member’s shareholding in KH Group equals to 50 per cent of their annual base salary of the year preceding the payment of the reward. Respectively, the CEO of KH-Koneet is obliged to hold 50 per cent of the reward shares received, until the person’s shareholding in KH Group equals to the annual base salary of the year preceding the payment of the reward. Such number of KH Group shares must be held as long as the membership in the Management or the position as the CEO continues.

    KH GROUP PLC

    Further information:
    Chairman of the Board of Directors Juha Karttunen, tel. +358 40 555 4727

    Distribution:
    Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd
    Main media
    www.khgroup.com

    KH Group Plc is a Nordic conglomerate operating in the business areas of KH-Koneet, Nordic Rescue Group and Indoor Group. We are a leading supplier of construction and earth-moving equipment, rescue vehicle manufacturer as well as furniture and interior decoration retailer. The objective of our strategy is to create an industrial group around the business of KH-Koneet. KH Group’s share is listed on Nasdaq Helsinki.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Van Orden Calls for Adjustment to SNAP Funding Proposal, Protections to Medicaid

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, Congressman Derrick Van Orden (WI-03) urged House Agriculture Committee Chairman G.T. Thompson to reconsider an adjustment proposal to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). To adhere to the reconciliation budget instructions agreed to by the House and Senate, the House Agriculture Committee proposed shifting a blanket 25% of SNAP costs on state governments.

    Congressman Van Orden proposed an alternative that would tie each state’s cost-sharing responsibility to its SNAP error rate. For instance, Wisconsin had a 4.74% overpayment error rate in 2023, so the state would be responsible for 4.74% of the cost.

    In addition to the letter, Rep. Van Orden signed on to a resolution that would prevent budget reconciliation from cutting Medicaid and SNAP benefits for the most vulnerable populations.

    “I write today in strong opposition to the reckless proposals under consideration that would impose up to 25% of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) costs on state governments,” Rep. Van Orden states in the letter. “However, any solution must avoid placing disproportionate burdens on rural states, where food insecurity is often more widespread. These communities are already underserved – we cannot place the financial responsibility on the backs of some of our most vulnerable populations, including hungry children. Period.”

    The Congressman continues, “Rather than threatening the benefits of those who rightfully receive SNAP, we should focus efforts on correcting inefficiencies. In FY2023, the national SNAP overpayment error rate was 10.03%, resulting in an estimated $13 billion in improperly issued benefits. This is where our attention should be.”

    To read the full letter, click here or scroll below.

     

    April 30, 2025

     

    The Honorable Glenn “GT” Thompson

    House Agriculture Committee

    1300 Longworth House Office Building

    Washington, D.C. 20515

     

    Dear Chairman Thompson,

     

    I write today in strong opposition to the reckless proposals under consideration that would impose up to 25% of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) costs on state governments.

    As you know, SNAP is currently funded entirely by the federal government, while state agencies are responsible for administering the program, including determining eligibility and distributing benefits. I fully support holding states accountable and agree that we must aggressively address the overpayments, fraud, waste, and abuse that undermine the program’s integrity.

    However, any solution must avoid placing disproportionate burdens on rural states, where food insecurity is often more widespread. These communities are already underserved—we cannot place the financial responsibility on the backs of some of our most vulnerable populations, including hungry children. Period.

    Rather than threatening the benefits of those who rightfully receive SNAP, we should focus efforts on correcting inefficiencies. In FY2023, the national SNAP overpayment error rate was 10.03%, resulting in an estimated $13 billion in improperly issued benefits. This is where our attention should be.

    I propose an alternative to a blanket 25% cost shift: tie each state’s cost-sharing responsibility to its SNAP error rate. For instance, Wisconsin had a 4.74% overpayment error rate in 2023, so the state would be responsible for 4.74% of the cost—not a penny more. It is fair, proportional, and incentivizes good program management by holding states that have run the program with large error directly accountable for their mishandling of funds without a bailout from the states who have responsibly administered program benefits.

    We can fix what is broken without punishing those who need this program most.

     

    Sincerely,

    Derrick Van Orden

    Member of Congress

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Raul Ruiz, M.D. and Congressman Gabe Evans Introduce Legislation to Expand 45X Credit and Bolster Domestic Clean Energy Manufacturing

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

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Raul Ruiz, M.D. (CA-25) and Congressman Gabe Evans (CO-8) introduced the Critical Minerals and Manufacturing Support Act, a bill aimed at strengthening the 45X Advanced Manufacturing Production Credit to spur domestic production of critical clean energy technologies, create good-paying jobs, and enhance U.S. energy security.

    “As we work to build a resilient, clean energy future, expanding the 45X credit—a tax incentive to boost domestic production of critical clean energy components—is a critical step in ensuring the United States leads in renewable energy innovation and manufacturing,” said Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz (CA-25) “This bill will drive investments into domestic production, strengthen our energy independence, and create thousands of jobs—particularly in regions like Lithium Valley in California, where we have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to lead in the global lithium supply chain. For our district, this means good-paying jobs, new economic opportunities, and long-term investments that will uplift local communities.”

    “By modernizing the 45X credit, we are not just investing in clean energy; we are investing in American workers, national security, and economic prosperity,” Congressman Ruiz added. “For families in our district, this translates to economic growth, workforce development, and a stronger, more resilient local economy. This legislation builds on our commitment to a clean, sustainable future that lifts up communities, improves quality of life, and secures our leadership in the global energy economy.”

    The legislation follows a series of executive actions by President Donald Trump aimed at reducing the United States’ dependence on foreign sources for critical minerals and rare earth elements.

    “CO-08 is already home to several innovative battery manufacturers that are leading the way in onshoring supply chains. As a strong supporter of American-made products representing these manufacturers, I am proud to help introduce this legislation to expand the 45X tax credit and improve incentives for battery manufacturing domestic supply chains. In doing so, we will encourage critical clean energy technologies, create good-paying jobs, and enhance U.S. energy security – all things that will help Coloradans.” –Congressman Gabe Evans

    “Battery technology is omnipresent in a variety of applications – including for national defense – and our dependence on the Chinese for critical materials raises vulnerabilities for our combat readiness and economic security,” said Sam Gillard, BATT Executive Director. “This bipartisan legislation will go a long way to creating the resilient supply chain for battery materials in the U.S. necessary to allow us to decouple this critical market from Chinese market manipulation.”

    “This is one of the most promising ways to further reduce our reliance on foreign entities of concern and expand the incentives to invest in a sustainable domestic market across the battery supply chain,” said Drew Ronneberg, BATT Policy Director. “Congress should seize upon this sensible approach to ensure America leads rather than follows.”

    “We extend our sincere gratitude to Congressman Ruiz for his unwavering commitment and dedicated efforts to advancing a robust domestic critical minerals supply chain, both in California and across the nation,” said Carmen Rene, Chief Financial Officer of EnergySource Minerals. “This legislation provides essential security and incentives for projects like ours, which are at the forefront of securing a sustainable and abundant supply of American lithium and other critical minerals vital to strengthening our energy infrastructure and national security.”

    “Imperial County is proud to be at the forefront of Lithium Valley, contributing to a more secure and self-reliant American energy future. The BATT SEC Act promotes exactly the kind of private-sector investment we’re working to bring to our region – investment that creates good-paying jobs, strengthens our domestic supply chains, and reduces our reliance on adversarial nations for critical minerals. By encouraging responsible resource development here at home, this bill helps position Imperial County as a hub for next generation energy innovation,” said Supervisor John Hawk, Chair of the Imperial County Board of Supervisors.

    Background on the Critical Minerals and Manufacturing Support Act

    The Critical Minerals and Manufacturing Support Act would:

    1. Extend and expand the 45X Advanced Manufacturing Production Credit to provide long-term certainty for U.S. clean energy manufacturers.
    2. Increase incentives for domestic production of critical minerals, battery components, and renewable energy technologies.
    3. Prioritize job creation and workforce development
    4. Boost American competitiveness by reducing reliance on foreign supply chains and accelerating clean energy manufacturing growth.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: VERAXA Biotech Enters Co-discovery Alliance with OmniAb for a Novel Bispecific Antibody Drug Conjugate Program

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ZURICH, SWITZERLAND, May 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — VERAXA Biotech AG (“VERAXA”), an emerging leader in designing novel cancer therapies and proposed de-SPAC acquisition target of Voyager Acquisition Corp. (NASDAQ: VACH, “Voyager”), announced today a co-discovery alliance with OmniAb, Inc. (NASDAQ: OABI, “OmniAb”) for the development of a novel bispecific antibody drug conjugate (“bsADC”) program targeting solid tumors. The collaboration brings together OmniAb’s suite of transgenic antibody discovery solutions with VERAXA’s proprietary antibody drug conjugate (“ADC”) linker technology and conjugation expertise to support next-generation therapeutic discovery.

    “This partnership brings together two highly complementary technologies to create a new class of bispecific ADCs,” commented Christoph Antz, Ph.D., CEO and Co-Founder of VERAXA. “Bispecific ADCs represent a powerful opportunity to address difficult-to-treat solid tumors, and this collaboration fits squarely within our mission to drive innovation through targeted partnerships. Strategic collaborations will continue to be a mainstay in VERAXA’s pipeline growth strategy, and today’s announcement marks the second major initiative within the past six months, following our first radiopharmaceutical alliance late last year. We look forward to advancing this discovery program alongside OmniAb and deliver novel therapeutic solutions for patients with significant unmet needs.”

    Under the terms of the agreement, VERAXA will initiate a novel bispecific antibody drug conjugate program addressing two attractive target molecules in cancer medicine. The Company will utilize OmniAb’s suite of transgenic antibody discovery solutions to source high-quality human antibody leads, which are naturally optimized through in vivo affinity maturation. VERAXA will subsequently establish the bsADC lead candidate by applying its proprietary linker technology and conjugation routine and will be responsible for preclinical validation. The resulting bsADC program will be jointly owned by both parties. Both parties will share any future revenues resulting from the program’s continued development, licensing and commercialization.

    About VERAXA Biotech

    At VERAXA, we are building a premier engine for the discovery and development of next-generation antibody-based therapeutics, including bispecific ADCs, bispecific T cell engagers and other innovative formats. Powered by a suite of transformative technologies and guided by rigorous quality-by-design principles, we are rapidly advancing our pipeline of ADCs and proprietary BiTAC formats into clinical development and beyond. VERAXA was founded on scientific breakthroughs made at the European Molecular Biology Laboratory, a world-renowned institution known for pioneering life science research and cutting-edge technologies. For more information, please visit www.veraxa.com.

    On April 22, 2025, VERAXA entered into a definitive business combination agreement (the “Business Combination Agreement”) with Voyager Acquisition Corp., a Cayman Islands exempted company and special purpose acquisition company targeting the healthcare sector (NASDAQ: VACH, “Voyager”). Upon closing of the Business Combination Agreement, VERAXA is expected to become a publicly traded company listed on NASDAQ.

    About Voyager Acquisition Corp.

    Voyager is a special purpose acquisition company with a bold mission: to revolutionize the healthcare sector through a merger, stock purchase, or business combination. Our team of experienced executives includes unparalleled expertise in investing, operations, and medical innovation, supported by a vast network of connections. With these strengths, we not only seek to drive success but commit to scaling companies to unprecedented heights in the healthcare industry. For more information, please visit https://www.voyageracq.com.

    Participants In the Solicitation

    Voyager, VERAXA, and their respective directors, executive officers, other members of management and employees may be deemed participants in the solicitation of proxies from Voyager’s stockholders with respect to the Business Combination. Investors and security holders may obtain more detailed information regarding the names and interests in the Business Combination of Voyager’s directors and officers in Voyager’s filings with the SEC, including, when filed with the SEC, the preliminary proxy statement/prospectus, the definitive proxy statement/prospectus, amendments and supplements thereto, and other documents filed with the SEC. Such information with respect to VERAXA’s directors and executive officers will also be included in the proxy statement/prospectus. You may obtain free copies of these documents as described below under the heading “Additional Information and Where to Find It”.

    Non-Solicitation

    This press release is not a proxy statement or solicitation of a proxy, consent or authorization with respect to any securities or in respect of the potential transaction and shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy the securities of Voyager or VERAXA, nor shall there be any sale of any such securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of such state or jurisdiction. No offer of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release includes certain statements that may be considered forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. Forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements about future events or Voyager’s or VERAXA’s future financial or operating performance. For example, statements regarding VERAXA’s anticipated growth and the anticipated growth and other metrics, statements regarding the benefits of the Business Combination, and the anticipated timing of the completion of the Business Combination are forward-looking statements. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as “may,” “should,” “could,” “might,” “plan,” “possible,” “project,” “strive,” “budget,” “forecast,” “expect,” “intend,” “will,” “estimate,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “predict,” “potential” or “continue,” or the negatives of these terms or variations of them or similar terminology.

    These forward-looking statements regarding future events and the future results of Voyager and VERAXA are based on current expectations, estimates, forecasts, and projections about the industry in which VERAXA operates, as well as the beliefs and assumptions of Voyager’s management and VERAXA’s management. These forward-looking statements are only predictions and are subject to, without limitation, (i) known and unknown risks, including the risks and uncertainties indicated from time to time in the final prospectus of Voyager relating to its initial public offering filed with the SEC, including those under “Risk Factors” therein, and other documents filed or to be filed with the SEC by Voyager; (ii) uncertainties; (iii) assumptions; and (iv) other factors beyond Voyager’s or VERAXA’s control that are difficult to predict because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that will occur in the future. They are neither statements of historical fact nor promises or guarantees of future performance. Therefore, VERAXA’s actual results may differ materially and adversely from those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements and Voyager and VERAXA therefore caution against relying on any of these forward-looking statements.

    These forward-looking statements are based upon estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by Voyager and its management, VERAXA and its management, as the case may be, are inherently uncertain and are inherently subject to risks, variability and contingencies, many of which are beyond Voyager’s or VERAXA’s control. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations include, but are not limited to: (i) the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstances that could give rise to the termination of the Business Combination Agreement and any subsequent definitive agreements with respect to the Business Combination; (ii) the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against Voyager, VERAXA, or others following the announcement of the Business Combination and any definitive agreements with respect thereto; (iii) the inability to complete the Business Combination due to the failure to obtain consents and approvals of the shareholders of Voyager, to obtain financing to complete the Business Combination or to satisfy other conditions to closing, or delays in obtaining, adverse conditions contained in, or the inability to obtain necessary regulatory approvals required to complete the transactions contemplated by the Business Combination Agreement; (iv) changes to the proposed structure of the Business Combination that may be required or appropriate as a result of applicable laws or regulations or as a condition to obtaining regulatory approval of the Business Combination; (v) projections, estimates and forecasts of revenue and other financial and performance metrics, projections of market opportunity and expectations, and the estimated implied enterprise value of VERAXA; (vi) VERAXA’s ability to scale and grow its business, and the advantages and expected growth of VERAXA; (vii) VERAXA’s ability to source and retain talent, the cash position of VERAXA following closing of the Business Combination; (viii) the ability to meet stock exchange listing standards in connection with, and following, the consummation of the Business Combination; (ix) the risk that the Business Combination disrupts current plans and operations of VERAXA as a result of the announcement and consummation of the Business Combination; (x) the ability to recognize the anticipated benefits of the Business Combination, which may be affected by, among other things, competition, the ability of VERAXA to grow and manage growth profitably, maintain key relationships and retain its management and key employees; (xi) costs related to the Business Combination; (xii) changes in applicable laws, regulations, political and economic developments; (xiii) the possibility that VERAXA may be adversely affected by other economic, business and/or competitive factors; (xiv) VERAXA’s estimates of expenses and profitability; (xv) the failure to realize estimated shareholder redemptions, purchase price and other adjustments; and (xvi) other risks and uncertainties set forth in the filings by Voyager with the SEC. There may be additional risks that neither Voyager nor VERAXA presently know or that Voyager and VERAXA currently believe are immaterial that could also cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statements made by or on behalf of Voyager or VERAXA speak only as of the date they are made. None of Voyager or VERAXA undertakes any obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect any changes in their respective expectations with regard thereto or any changes in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based.

    Additional Information and Where to Find It

    In connection with the Business Combination Agreement, Voyager and/or VERAXA intend to file relevant materials with the SEC, including the Registration Statement, which will include a proxy statement/prospectus of Voyager, and will file other documents regarding the proposed transaction with the SEC. This communication is not intended to be, and is not, a substitute for the proxy statement/prospectus or any other document that Voyager has filed or may file with the SEC in connection with the proposed transaction. When available, the definitive proxy statement and other relevant materials for the proposed transaction will be mailed or made available to stockholders of Voyager as of a record date to be established for voting on the proposed transaction.

    Before making any voting or investment decision, investors and stockholders of Voyager are urged to carefully read, when they become available, the entire registration statement, the proxy statement/prospectus, and any other relevant documents filed with the SEC, as well as any amendments or supplements to these documents, and the documents incorporated by reference therein, because they will contain important information about Voyager, VERAXA, and the proposed transaction. Voyager’s investors and stockholders and other interested persons will also be able to obtain copies of the registration statement, the preliminary proxy statement/prospectus, the definitive proxy statement/prospectus, other documents filed with the SEC that will be incorporated by reference therein, and all other relevant documents filed with the SEC by Voyager in connection with the Transaction, without charge, once available, at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov, or by directing a request to Voyager at the address set forth below.

    Contact

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: Number of complaints against insurers and brokers decreased, against banks and microfinance organizations increased: results of the first quarter

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Central Bank of Russia –

    In January-March, the number of complaints to the Bank of Russia from consumers of financial services and investors increased by 23.6% compared to the same period last year. In total received almost 95 thousand complaints.

    The number of complaints about insurance issues has decreased by 44.6%. This is primarily due to the fact that the procedure for challenging the bonus-malus coefficient (KBM) has changed. This topic used to be the most common among complaints about MTPL. Now citizens can independently find out their KBM in their personal account on the website of the National Insurance Information System. If they do not agree with its value, they can also leave a request there to recalculate it. The number of complaints about accident and illness insurance and life insurance has also decreased.

    There were fewer complaints about professional participants in the securities market – by 27.5%, with the leaders in the decline being complaints from investors about difficulties in managing assets due to sanctions (a 4-fold reduction).

    In the segment of appeals related to non-state pension funds (NPF), complaints about people’s disagreement with the transition from the Social Fund of Russia to the NPF, as well as between NPFs, decreased by 31.4%.

    Complaints about the imposition of paid services when lending continue to decline. They have decreased by 42.2%, including due to the fact that since last year, lenders are required to inform borrowers about the services they have purchased along with the loan and notify them of the right to refuse them within 30 days.

    To combat fraudulent transactions, the Bank of Russia in July 2024 obliged bankssuspend suspicious transactions to prevent theft of funds. In this regard, in the first quarter of this year, compared to the same period in 2024, the number of citizens’ requests due to the suspension of remote banking services (RBS) has increased significantly. This contributed to the increase in the total number of complaints related to banks. Compared to the first quarter of 2024, their number has increased by 36.8%. At the same time, based on the results of reviewing the majority of requests regarding the blocking of RBS, banks confirmed its use for fraudulent purposes.

    Complaints about microfinance organizations (MFOs) have increased by more than 10%. Consumers complained about difficulties with returning money when refusing additional services and about loans being issued without their consent. There are also requests from MFO clients with a demand, formed under the influence of recommendations on social networks, to recalculate their debt.

    Preview photo: ImageBROKER / Shutterstock / Fotodom

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

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    HTTPS: //vv. KBR.ru/Press/Event/? ID = 24589

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Smucker, Davids Introduce Student Loan Tax Elimination Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Lloyd Smucker (PA-16)

    WASHINGTON—Reps. Lloyd Smucker (PA-11) and Sharice Davids (KS-03) have introduced the Student Loan Tax Elimination Act. The legislation would eliminate a hidden tax on federal student loans, which adds unnecessary debt to student loan borrowers.  

    “Students and parents should fully understand the terms and costs associated with borrowing for their education. Unfortunately, federal loan programs have hidden fees which negatively impact students. Loan origination fees are a hidden tax which ultimately inflate costs for students. Eliminating this fee would be a step in the direction of lowering the cost of higher education for students across the nation.” said Representative Smucker (PA-11).

    “Students working hard to invest in their future through education shouldn’t be weighed down by hidden administrative fees. With the rising cost of higher education already making it harder for graduates to buy a home, launch a business, or contribute fully to our economy, this bill takes a meaningful step toward reducing that burden. By eliminating certain unnecessary and costly fees, we’re helping ensure that a college degree leads to opportunity — not obstacles.” – Representative Sharice Davids (KS-03)

    Background:

    As a result of legislation passed in 2010, all federal student loans issued through the U.S. Department of Education were taken out of the hands of private lenders and issued directly by the Department. Despite the elimination of private lenders in the federal loan process, students are still being charged administration fees on student loans. This hidden tax adds billions of dollars to student debt every year.

    The Student Loan Tax Elimination Act would eliminate origination fees for federal student loans, which cost nearly $6.5 billion over a four year period, according to a report from the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators.

    # # # 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Smucker, Sewell, Tillis, and Hickenlooper Reintroduce Retirement Savings for Americans Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Lloyd Smucker (PA-16)

    WASHINGTON – Representatives Lloyd Smucker and Terri Sewell and U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper and Thom Tillis have reintroduced the Retirement Savings for Americans Act (RSAA), legislation to help low- and middle-income Americans build wealth and save for retirement. The bill would establish a new program that gives eligible workers access to portable, tax-advantaged retirement savings accounts. If passed, the RSAA would allow the federal government to match contributions for low- and middle-income workers, with the match beginning to phase out at median income. 

    “Too many hard-working Americans are not able to prepare financially for retirement. Over half of working employees lack access to the tax-advantaged retirement benefits that many higher-income earners take advantage of to save. Additionally, as the workforce continues to innovate and more Americans become categorized as “gig workers,” the reliance on traditional employer-sponsored plans causes too many workers to slip through the cracks. Hard-working Americans deserve a modern pathway to find financial security in their retirement. I am proud to join in this bipartisan and bicameral effort to advance the Retirement Savings for Americans Act, to help millions of Americans save for their retirements. I will continue to advocate for policies which help hard workers live their American Dream, including a well-earned and financially stable retirement,” said Smucker. 

    “Every Alabamian and every American should be able to retire with dignity after a lifetime of work,” said Sewell. “Democrats and Republicans alike recognize the urgent need for Congress to address the gaps in our retirement system and make it easier for low- and middle-income workers to save for retirement. I am proud to once again work with my House and Senate colleagues on both sides of the aisle to advance the Retirement Savings for Americans Act which would level the playing field for working families and build a stronger economy for all Americans.”

    “Roughly 50 million Americans lack access to an employer-sponsored retirement plan, which represents a significant roadblock to achieving financial security for their retirement,” said Tillis. “The Retirement Savings for Americans Act tackles this real problem by establishing a pathway for savings for Americans lacking retirement options.”

    “Americans who work hard their entire lives deserve to retire with dignity,” said Hickenlooper. “This bill helps low-income workers enjoy a secure retirement and fulfill their American dream.’’

    A study by the National Council on Aging found that 80% of aging Americans are struggling financially or are at risk of financial insecurity, and therefore, not prepared to retire. In a new ranking of the world’s retirement systems, the U.S. scored a C+, mainly because the current system works well for white collar workers but fails gig workers and blue collar workers. If trends continue, inadequate retirement savings will cost state and federal governments a combined $1.3 trillion in increased spending by 2040. 

    A recent report from the RAND Corporation indicates that over 40 million Americans, or 26 percent of the nation’s workforce who lack access to retirement plans, would receive matching federal benefits under the RSAA. Additionally, the RAND study reports that the RSAA could pay for itself in approximately thirty years by reducing reliance on other federal programs. 

    The RSAA enjoys broad support. View a full list of endorsements of the legislation HERE. 

    “The Retirement Savings for Americans Act would create a healthier retirement system, a more financially secure workforce, and a stronger economy for all Americans,” said John Lettieri, President and CEO, Economic Innovation Group. “By ensuring that all workers — regardless of their employer or income — have the opportunity and incentives to build long-term financial security, the RSAA would boost the wealth of the working class and significantly reduce the strain on the social safety net over time. EIG is proud to have worked closely with Senators Hickenlooper and Tillis and Representatives Smucker and Sewell on this important legislation, and we applaud them for their bipartisan leadership on behalf of American workers.” 

    “Nearly 1 out of 4 Americans has no retirement savings, and more than half of all Americans report they are concerned they will not achieve financial security in retirement. We know that Americans are much more likely to save when they have access to retirement savings options at work. Today nearly half of all private-sector employees do not have access to an employer-sponsored retirement savings program. The Retirement Savings for Americans Act would help more families across the country save for retirement.” – Bill Sweeney, Senior Vice President of Government Affairs, AARP 

    “Creating this kind of program meets an obligation we all share to help every working American build financial security and well-being in retirement. I also know it will offset future support we surely would have to provide if we don’t help more people begin to build that security today. And in true American spirit, it isn’t a giveaway, but an incentive for working individuals to begin helping themselves and their families.” – Charles R. Schwab, Founder and Chairman, Charles Schwab Corporation. Read Mr. Schwab’s full statement.  

    “With more Americans choosing new ways to work than ever before, we’re proud to support this bipartisan effort to enable more workers in the modern economy to access the kinds of benefits that have long been out of reach for all but full-time employees. This is an important step toward empowering workers like Dashers to choose the independence and flexibility that dashing gives them, while still having access to important benefits. The Retirement Savings for Americans Act makes meaningful progress toward expanding access for retirement savings across the country–regardless of how someone chooses to work. We applaud Senators Hickenlooper and Tillis and Representatives Sewell and Smucker for working across the aisle to address such an important issue for Dashers and other Americans who are choosing new and different ways to work.” – Max Rettig, Vice President of Public Policy, DoorDash 

    “Uber supports forward-looking legislation like the Retirement Savings for Americans Act to improve independent work across the nation. The bill represents a novel, thoughtful approach to bridging gaps in the existing retirement savings framework. We commend the Congressional sponsors for their ongoing efforts to advance this legislation.” – Javi Correoso, Head of Federal Affairs, Uber

    The Retirement Savings for Americans Act contains the following provisions:

    • Eligibility and Auto Enrollment: Full- and part-time workers who lack access to an employer-sponsored retirement plan would be eligible for an account, and they would be automatically enrolled at 3% of their income. They could choose to increase or decrease their withholding, or opt out entirely at any time. Independent workers (including gig workers) would also be eligible.
    • Federal Contribution: Low- and moderate-income workers would be eligible for a 1% automatic contribution (as long as they remain employed) and up to a 4% matching contribution via a refundable federal tax credit. This would begin to phase out at median income.
    • Portability: Accounts would remain attached to workers throughout their lifetimes, and workers would be able to stop and start contributions at will.
    • Private Assets: The accounts would be the property of the worker and the assets could be passed down to future generations to help them build wealth and financial security.
    • Investment Options: Much like the current Thrift Savings Plan, participants would be given a menu of simple, low-fee investment options to choose from, including lifecycle funds tied to a worker’s estimated retirement date, or index funds made of stocks and bonds.

    Full text of the bill is available HERE and a one-page explainer of the bill HERE.

    # # # 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley Helps Restore Three CBP Whistleblowers’ Careers after Nearly a Decade of Retaliation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) has successfully secured promotions for three Customs and Border Protection (CBP) whistleblowers, along with full compensation for the more than seven years of retaliation they’ve suffered.

    Whistleblowers Fred Wynn, Mike Taylor and Mark Jones have been elevated to new supervisory roles at CBP, reversing their prior demotion and reduction in pay. The whistleblowers will receive back pay and retirement benefits to cover for nearly a decade of financial losses inflicted by the agency. The agency is also reauthorizing Jones and Taylors’ law enforcement credentials, badges and firearms, after they were revoked by the Biden administration in 2023 for blowing the whistle on CBP’s failure to comply with the DNA Fingerprint Act of 2005. 

    These actions fulfill Grassley’s explicit requests on behalf of the whistleblowers, and fully unwind years of CBP retaliation.

    “Today is a victory for Fred Wynn, Mike Taylor, Mark Jones and the rule of law. At long last, these patriotic men will be made whole again,” Grassley said. “I’m very grateful to the leadership at the Department of Homeland Security and Customs and Border Protection, who worked with me to bring these whistleblowers back to their rightful roles. Once again, the Trump administration has shown its respect for people that blow the whistle on wrongdoing. I hope that continues, because when you’re at the top of the bureaucracy, you don’t always know what goes on below. That’s precisely why we need brave whistleblowers like these three.”

    “These men had the courage and patriotism to speak up against the Biden Administration’s deliberate efforts to destroy our national security. They paid an unjust price for doing so — betrayed by an administration that protected lawbreakers and punished law enforcement,” said Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. “Under President Trump’s leadership, we are restoring what is right and true and getting these patriots back to doing the work they love.”

    Background:

    The DNA Fingerprint Act of 2005 requires federal law enforcement to collect DNA from every individual CBP arrests, charges, convicts or detains. Wynn, Taylor and Jones were sidelined for sounding the alarm on the agency’s consistent failure to collect all legally-required DNA samples. In 2023, data showed CBP was collecting DNA samples from fewer than 40 percent of the illegal immigrants entering under the Biden-Harris administration.  

    Since 2018, Grassley has urged CBP to halt its retaliation of these three whistleblowers and follow the law. He highlighted their case at a congressional roundtable last year, where Wynn, Taylor and Jones addressed senators in a panel discussion on the national security implications of CBP’s refusal to collect DNA samples.

    During last week’s hearing to consider President Trump’s nominee to be CBP Commissioner, Grassley again voiced his request for these whistleblowers to be “100% redirected from the punishment they had by the previous administration.” Days later, CBP agreed to promote Wynn, Taylor and Jones.

    This is the second agreement Grassley has brokered this year on behalf of whistleblowers. In March, the IRS promoted whistleblowers Gary Shapley and Joseph Ziegler, at Grassley’s urging.   

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: WA joins states suing Trump over illegal attacks on wind energy development

    Source: Washington State News

    SEATTLE — Washington state filed suit today alongside 18 attorneys general against the Trump administration over its unlawful attempt to freeze the development of wind energy.

    “We can’t unleash American energy by kneecapping some of the fastest growing, most innovative, and cleanest resources in the country,” Attorney General Nick Brown said. “Without a robust clean energy economy, we will see worsening climate change, more expensive energy from toxic fossil fuels, fewer jobs, and fewer solutions to our greatest challenges.”

    On Jan. 20, President Trump issued a presidential memo that indefinitely halted all federal approvals necessary for the development of offshore and onshore wind energy projects pending federal review. Federal agencies have stopped all permitting and approval activities, and have even stopped a fully permitted project in New York that had already begun construction.

    Wind energy is a homegrown source of reliable, affordable energy that supports hundreds of thousands of jobs, creates billions of dollars in economic activity and tax payments, and supplies more than 10% of the country’s electricity. 

    The attorneys general say the president’s directive harms their states’ efforts to secure reliable, diversified, and affordable sources of energy to meet their increasing demand for electricity and help reduce emissions of harmful air pollutants, meet clean energy goals, and address climate change. The directive also threatens to thwart the states’ significant investments in wind industry infrastructure, supply chains, and workforce development—investments that already total billions of dollars. 

    The memo and associated halt on project approvals could threaten Washington’s ability to meet its greenhouse gas emissions requirements and renewable energy goals. It also threatens an increasingly important part of Washington’s economy. Washington has also enacted multiple state laws that require the phase out of polluting fossil fuels to be replaced with clean renewable energy like that from wind.

    Wind power is the second largest contributor to Washington’s renewable energy generation after hydroelectric power. In 2024, Washington generated 8,421 Megawatt hours from wind power alone. In contrast to fossil fuels, which are often subject to volatile market conditions, wind power enhances Washington’s energy security and economic stability.

    The president’s directive and federal agencies’ subsequent implementation of it violate the Administrative Procedure Act and other federal laws by providing no reasoned explanation for categorically and indefinitely halting all wind energy development — a sudden change that reverses longstanding federal policy and is inconsistent with recent federal action propping up other forms of energy. The abrupt halt on all permitting violates numerous federal statutes that prescribe specific procedures and timelines for federal permitting and approvals — procedures the administration wholly disregarded in stopping wind energy development altogether.         

    In filing this lawsuit, the attorneys general are asking the court to declare the president’s directive illegal and prevent the administration from taking any action to delay or prevent wind energy development. 

    Joining AG Brown in filing this lawsuit are the attorneys general of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, New Mexico, Oregon, and Rhode Island.

    A copy of the complaint is available here.

    -30-

    Washington’s Attorney General serves the people and the state of Washington. As the state’s largest law firm, the Attorney General’s Office provides legal representation to every state agency, board, and commission in Washington. Additionally, the Office serves the people directly by enforcing consumer protection, civil rights, and environmental protection laws. The Office also prosecutes elder abuse, Medicaid fraud, and handles sexually violent predator cases in 38 of Washington’s 39 counties. Visit www.atg.wa.gov to learn more.

    Media Contact:

    Email: press@atg.wa.gov

    Phone: (360) 753-2727

    General contacts: Click here

    Media Resource Guide & Attorney General’s Office FAQ

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Hochul is a Guest on ‘CNN News Central’

    Source: US State of New York

    arlier today, Governor Hochul was a guest on “CNN News Central.”

    AUDIO: The Governor’s remarks are available in audio form here.

    A rush transcript of the Governor’s remarks is available below:

    Kate Bolduan, CNN:  Let’s focus in right now on the President’s comments on the Constitution, and much more. Joining us right now is the Democratic Governor of New York, Governor Kathy Hochul. It’s good to have you here, Governor.

    Governor Hochul: Thank you. Thank you so much.

    Kate Bolduan, CNN: Let’s start there — where Mark and Sarah were talking about the President saying that he does not know if every person on U.S. soil should be afforded due process under the Constitution. What do you make of that after hearing the President?

    Governor Hochul: He basically said that he doesn’t have to follow or even understand what the Constitution of the United States requires of every person who takes that oath of office. I took the same oath of office 31 years ago to run for town board. I knew I was supposed to uphold the constitution.

    I have to think a President who took the oath of office — not once, but twice — understands that there are limitations and that is the body of the Constitution. He must follow it. Otherwise, the democracy that we fought for and upheld for 250 years is just going to go down the drain and we’re not going to let that happen. But it was shocking and it tells you all you need to know about this presidency and this man — that he doesn’t give a damn about the U.S. Constitution and that is frightening in itself.

    Kate Bolduan, CNN: Also, overnight, he announced that he wants to put a 100 percent tariff on all films made overseas. I actually saw – I was looking at the budget that you’re rolling out. And as part of the budget, you’re actually expanding tax credits — tax breaks — to try to bring more film production to New York. I mean, while not clear how the President would apply a tariff on intellectual property, something that’s not a physical good. I guess maybe if I can set that aside for a second. Do you like the idea of that?

    Governor Hochul: These midnight ideas that he has or throws out on the table and we’re all supposed to process? I’ll tell you what, I’m fighting hard for this industry in New York State. It’s an economic driver. It’s part of our identity.

    The talent wants to be in New York, and so I’m in competition with other states, but indeed other countries. So I’m focused on what I can do here in the State of New York. I don’t know if that leads to retaliatory tariffs in other countries because once you start the trade war, who knows where it ends.

    Kate Bolduan, CNN: Right, does it backfire?

    Governor Hochul: Right now, we’re on the bad end of that war because if we’re talking about everything from children’s dolls and toys going up – it may not be here for Christmas. So that’s not what Americans thought they were getting with this president. These were promises they did not expect to see upheld. They thought they’re voting for possible tariffs. But they had no idea that meant when they go to Walmart this Christmas, the shelves may be empty because of what Donald Trump has done.

    Kate Bolduan, CNN: You mentioned the dolls. Let me play how he said that, just to remind our viewers how he talked about that when asked, acknowledging the prices would go up, and then he said this, let me play this for you again.

    […]

    What is your reaction to the President’s take on that? I heard Mark Short – who’s a long time Republican operative – say this feels very, “Let them eat cake” at the moment, even hearing that from a Republican.

    Governor Hochul: It’s so condescending on so many levels. But as a mom who has bought dolls for my little girl and my granddaughter. I mean, come on? The President of the United States is telling you that, “Oh, you don’t need that.” This is a millionaire — maybe billionaire, who really knows what his records show — but he has a lot more money than the average American.

    It shows a disconnect with the people who voted him into office — many of them — that he doesn’t care. He doesn’t care about the families, and this is the contrast that I’m drawing with the budget that I just unveiled. And so he shows he doesn’t care about them. And I think they’re starting to hear this and feel this, and they feel they’ve been betrayed.

    And that’s a very overwhelming feeling across the State of New York. People in the North Country who voted for him, people on Long Island who voted for him, who now lost offshore wind jobs. The North Country – our small businesses are saying, why are you at war with Canada? These are our customers, and now they’re not coming to places like Lake George and Saranac Lake.

    They’re not spending money here because you antagonize one of our best friends in the whole world. So people across New York who did vote for him – the majority did not — but those who even did, they’re shaking their heads at what is happening.

    Kate Bolduan, CNN: I want to ask you about the budget — the state budget that you’re rolling out. I’ve seen it described in more than one place actually as providing a possible roadmap for Democrats far beyond New York and the coming cycle in the Trump era. Not to get into the weeds of the state budget, but you included measures of increasing public safety and lowering taxes for all but the wealthy.

    Do you see success for yourself in the coming election and your party, as I will broad strokes it as moving more towards the center versus the left, which we’re seeing this conversation happen within the Democratic party.

    Governor Hochul: This is not a new movement for me. I’ve always found comfortable in the very wide center — where I believe that most New Yorkers really are. And what it does is it provides a blueprint for anyone who really cares about delivering what the constituents actually want. They want you to focus on two things. Are they and their families safe? Can you do more to make me feel safe? Or whether I’m on the subway?

    So I put more police officers there on our streets, putting more money for gun interdiction up in our rural communities, making sure that our law enforcement has what they need. You have to feel fundamentally safe and Democrats have to talk about that. Don’t be afraid to talk about fighting crime.

    Kate Bolduan, CNN: Do you think that’s been one of the misses in and lessons from the election?

    Governor Hochul: For many, many years. Not this year, many years. We will protect defendants’ rights without a doubt. But I changed the laws so no longer will people see cases — violent criminals walking free, because there were technical reasons why a case was dismissed. We ended that. We’re going to make sure that does not — so I’m focused on that, but it’s also public safety and the economy.

    People are worried about prices and their bills, and you see everybody walking around looking at their cell phone, what their 401k plan is plummeting and turning into — numbers that they never thought could go that low. It is frightening for New Yorkers, and I think about the Walmart moms and the people who shop in the big box stores.

    Like I said, I used to do it as a mom, like you’re clutching your coupons. Hoping it’s enough to get you out of that cash out without being embarrassed in front of your kids that you didn’t have enough for the groceries that week because tariffs drove up the prices. So I’m putting money back in people’s pockets — $5,000.

    Inflation rebate. A thousand dollars for kids under the age four, $500 for school age. The biggest — as you mentioned — the biggest tax cut we’ve had for the middle class in 70 years. It’s all about putting money back in their pockets. And lastly, letting them know I care about their families because their family is my fight.

    I’m banning cell phones in all schools so our kids can finally get their childhood back. So you talk to people about things they understand. You don’t give them a 25 point blueprint on future energy needs. Just tell it like it is. Talk like a regular citizen, a regular New Yorker, a regular person, and stop being so condescending ourselves and talking down to people. This is what they want.

    Kate Bolduan, CNN: You’re going to face some competition in your reelection effort. Just heard, Elise Stefanik, who was up to be an ambassador for Trump – obviously that did not happen. And she was out just yesterday and had some really harsh words to say about you saying, you’re the worst governor in America, that she dubbed Andrew Cuomo that not thinking anyone could do, do worse.

    She’s clearly — she’s exploring a run against you. Are you concerned there has been a lot of talk about the growing Republican sentiment in the State of New York over cycles. Are you concerned about a Republican challenger?

    Governor Hochul: No. No, Donald Trump has made sure that the Republican Party brand is so tainted in New York that no matter who runs against me, they will have the baggage of explaining why people’s prices went up, why they lost healthcare, why they lost Medicaid, why they lost education, all to fund tax breaks for the wealthiest. I look forward to that fight. No matter who it is, it’s not settled yet, but I say bring it on.

    Kate Bolduan, CNN: Governor, thanks for coming in.

    Governor Hochul: Thank you.

    Kate Bolduan, CNN: It’s good to have you here. Thank you.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Pennsylvania Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by September Drought

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    ATLANTA – The  U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP)organizations of the June 2 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by the drought beginning Sep. 24, 2024.

    The disaster declaration covers Greene, Fayette, and Washington counties in Pennsylvania as well as Marshall, Monongalia, and Wetzel in West Virginia.

    Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs with financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the small business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    “Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    Submit completed loan applications to SBA no later than June 2, 2025.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration  

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Province takes energy action to electrify economy, increase resilience

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    The Province, in partnership with BC Hydro, is launching an ambitious plan to harness British Columbia’s clean-electricity advantage, driving economic growth and transformative change, strengthening energy security and advancing climate action.

    “With this work, we are securing our energy and our economy for the future by expanding one of our greatest assets: abundant clean electricity,” said Premier David Eby. “We are boosting our clean-energy supply, powering our growing communities and industries, and creating thousands of family-supporting jobs – all while advancing reconciliation and reducing pollution. Perhaps most importantly, this will help build a strong foundation for our province and our country at a time of external threats to our sovereignty and prosperity.”

    The Clean Power Action Plan is a forward-thinking strategy to leverage B.C.’s clean-electricity advantage, ensuring a resilient and sustainable future for British Columbia. With five transformative initiatives, the plan aims to accelerate economic growth, while securing long-term energy stability for generations to come:

    • launching a second call for power to acquire a target of up to 5,000 gigawatt-hours per year of energy from large, clean and renewable projects in partnership with First Nations and independent power producers – enough to power 500,000 new homes. This builds on the success of the 2024 call for power, which resulted in 10 new renewable-energy projects, with First Nations asset ownership between 49% and 51%, capable of powering about 500,000 new homes;
    • opening up the opportunity to explore B.C.’s power potential through a request for expressions of interest exploring capacity and firm, baseload electricity projects to deliver for peak demand periods and to provide back-up intermittent energy resources;
    • ushering in an expanded era of energy efficiency by partnering with innovators through a request for expressions of interest to deliver market-ready demand-side management technologies that help people and businesses save energy and money;
    • investing more than $12 million from the B.C. Innovative Clean Energy (ICE) fund in a targeted three-year call for new, made-in-B.C. clean-energy technologies that will combat climate change and create sustainable jobs; and
    • streamlining connections to B.C.’s grid to enable new homes and businesses to access clean electricity faster and less expensively.

    “Uncertain times demand bold, decisive action, and we need to respond with urgency and with confidence and turn adversity into opportunity,” said Adrian Dix, Minister of Energy and Climate Solutions. “Our commitment to strengthening energy security and building a resilient electricity system will unlock critical economic opportunities, foster innovation, deepen collaboration with First Nations and reaffirm B.C.’s leadership in climate action.”  

    These initiatives build on actions underway, including setting BC Hydro rate increases at 3.75% for the next two years to provide stable, affordable rates, while enabling significant investments, offering new optional rates to help residential customers save, and implementing BC Hydro’s $36-billion 10-year capital plan to expand and reinforce electricity infrastructure throughout the province.

    Beyond driving economic development and ensuring energy security, the Clean Power Action Plan also supports electrification – the transition from fossil fuels to clean electricity in homes, businesses, industry and transportation, a key pillar of the CleanBC climate strategy.

    “Through collaboration with government, First Nations, and the clean-energy sector, BC Hydro is making significant investments and seeking new partnerships to secure B.C.’s clean-energy future,” said Chris O’Riley, president and CEO, BC Hydro. “The initiatives in the Clean Power Action Plan will set the stage for an increased renewable, reliable and resilient energy supply to support our growing province in the years ahead. At the same time, we remain committed to affordability by offering customers more ways to save energy and money, while maintaining stable, predictable rates.”

    By taking action today, the Province and BC Hydro are laying the foundation for a cleaner, stronger and more resilient future. Through strategic investments, innovation and collaboration, British Columbia is poised to lead in sustainable-energy development, while driving economic progress. As the Clean Power Action Plan moves forward, it will continue to empower communities, create opportunities and secure the province’s place as a leader in clean energy and climate action.

    Quote:

    Kwatuuma Cole Sayers, executive director, Clean Energy Association of British Columbia (CEBC) –

    “The 2024 call for power was historic, showing what’s possible when First Nations, industry, and government collaborate to deliver clean electricity, drive investment, and advance reconciliation. Today’s announcement builds on that momentum with a second call and plan that prioritizes Indigenous equity, local energy solutions and jobs, and sustainable economic growth. CEBC applauds the Province for its continued leadership and remains committed to building a clean and equitable future for all British Columbians.”

    Quick Facts:

    • The 10 wind and solar projects selected through BC Hydro’s 2024 call for power will power 500,000 homes and increase electricity supply by 8%.
    • These projects represent up to $6 billion in private capital spending throughout the province and will create approximately 2,000 jobs during construction.
    • Nearly all the projects have First Nations majority ownership – representing up to $3 billion of asset ownership by First Nations.
    • BC Hydro is investing more than $700 million over the next three years in energy-efficiency tools, technology and programs, which is expected to result in 2,000 gigawatt-hours per year of electricity savings, or enough to power 200,000 homes.
    • Since 2008, the B.C. Innovative Clean Energy Fund has committed more than $124 million to support pre-commercial clean-energy technology projects, clean-energy vehicles, research and development, and energy-efficiency programs.
    • BC Hydro’s residential, commercial and industrial rates are the third lowest in North America (among 22 utilities surveyed in Hydro Quebec’s 2024 Rates Comparison Report).

    Learn More:

    For information on B.C.’s Clean Power Action Plan, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/EnergizingEconomyReport.pdf

    For information about the wind- and solar-energy projects selected in BC Hydro’s 2024 call for power, visit: https://www.bchydro.com/work-with-us/selling-clean-energy/2024-call-for-power/participants.html

    To find out about the Province’s rate stability direction, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2025ECS0011-000216

    To compare BC Hydro rates with other energy utilities in North America, visit: http://news.gov.bc.ca/files/BCHydroRates.pdf

    To learn more about the Innovative Clean Energy Fund and the 2025 targeted call for clean-energy innovation, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/industry/electricity-alternative-energy/innovative-clean-energy-solutions/innovative-clean-energy-ice-fund

    For information about BC Hydro’s energy-efficiency programs, visit: https://www.bchydro.com/toolbar/about/strategies-plans-regulatory/supply-operations/efficiency-plan.html

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, President of the Senate of the Kingdom of Cambodia, paid an official visit to the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat

    Source: ASEAN

    JAKARTA, 5 May 2025 – Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, President of the Senate of the Kingdom of Cambodia, today concluded his official visit to the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat.
     
    The official visit featured a series of key events, including a symbolic tree planting ceremony, an Interface with the Secretary-General of ASEAN, Committee of Permanent Representative (CPR) and Ambassador of Timor Leste to ASEAN, a Policy Speech, followed by a Dinner Reception commemorating the 26th anniversary of Cambodia’s membership in ASEAN. These events were attended by the diplomatic corps in Jakarta, representatives of entities associated with ASEAN, academia and think tanks, business representatives, as well as staff members of the ASEAN Secretariat.
     
    During the Policy Speech, Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, President of the Senate of Cambodia, emphasized that “To understand Cambodia’s perspective, it is crucial to understand the situations and experiences that Cambodia had gone through and comprehend what Cambodian leaders in general, not just myself, have sought to achieve for Cambodia. Our starting position comes from political, diplomatic and economic isolation, and Cambodia’s connection with ASEAN stems from this very isolation, namely the deep desire for equal recognition, equal rights, and the aspiration for full respect for our independence, sovereignty, and dignity as a nation in the region.”
     
    In his opening remarks, Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, acknowledged Samdech Hun Sen’s exemplary leadership in chairing ASEAN in 2002, 2012 and 2022, which led to great successes. SG Dr. Kao further emphasized that 2025 is a significant milestone for ASEAN, as it will see the adoption of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 and its Strategic Plans. ‘’The work that Cambodia has contributed over the years has set a clear course for ASEAN’s future, and today’s policy speech by Samdech Techo Hun Sen offers us invaluable insights into Cambodia’s forward-looking vision for the future and its continuing active contributions to ASEAN’s growth, development, and success,’’ said SG Dr. Kao.
     
    “This address presents a unique opportunity to learn from Samdech Techo Hun Sen’s strategic vision for steering ASEAN through an era of great uncertainty, profound turbulence, volatility and transformation. As we are all grappling with profound and dramatic shifts in world politics and economy, Samdech Techo Hun Sen’s experience – honed through multiple decades of navigating crises and shaping history – offers invaluable insights into the path ahead for both ASEAN and Cambodia. In times of change and uncertainty, such seasoned leadership and historical depth and insights are more crucial than ever,” concluded SG Dr. Kao.
     
    Samdech Techo Hun Sen’s official visit to ASEAN Secretariat reaffirmed Cambodia’s steadfast dedication to deepening regional cooperation and actively contributing to ASEAN’s future direction. The official visit provided a platform for high-level discussions on critical regional issues and further solidified and strengthened relations, cooperation, and partnership between Cambodia and ASEAN.

    The post Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, President of the Senate of the Kingdom of Cambodia, paid an official visit to the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –