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Category: Economy

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Increased diesel reserves to improve resilience

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The minimum stockholding obligation for diesel importers will increase from 21 to 28 days’ cover, bolstering New Zealand’s diesel reserves and resilience to supply disruptions, Associate Energy Minister Shane Jones says.
    The Coalition Government consulted on the proposal late last year and has agreed that from 1 July 2028, fuel importers that have more than a 10 per cent market share must hold an additional seven days’ supply onshore.
    “We use around 11 million litres of diesel every day in New Zealand, and it is vital for the economy – from food production and distribution to emergency electricity generation and the movement of essential goods and services,” Mr Jones says.
    “While the chances of a severe and sustained fuel disruption are low, the consequences for Kiwis and our economy would be catastrophic.
    “Our diesel reserves are lower than reserves for other fuel types, meaning we are particularly vulnerable to supply disruptions. The Fuel Security Study I released in February found our diesel cover of 21 days in reserve could be tight to manage, even for a minor disruption.
    “Building our resilience must carefully balance the risks with the cost of mitigation to the sector and ultimately consumers. A reserve of 28 days is a good compromise and means we will be able to better ride out smaller disruptions and, in the event of a major supply event, it will give us time to get solutions in place.”
    Fuel security continues to be a priority for the Government as work progresses on a Fuel Security Plan for New Zealand, a commitment in the New Zealand First-National Coalition Agreement. The plan is expected to be delivered later this year.
    “Establishing the requirement to hold more diesel reserves from July 2028 allows operators enough time to determine how to incorporate additional diesel into their networks and if necessary, to build or refurbish existing tanks,” Mr Jones says.
    The minimum stockholding obligation for diesel importers with a market share of less than 10 per cent will be reviewed next year.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: ‘Germany is back’: 3 ways NZ can benefit from Europe’s renewed centre of power

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Mathew Doidge, Senior Research Fellow, National Centre for Research on Europe, University of Canterbury

    Getty Images

    It’s unlikely many New Zealanders paid close attention to Foreign Minister Winston Peters’ statement late last year that “New Zealand and Germany are committed to enhancing their partnership”.

    Peters had been visiting Berlin two weeks after Donald Trump’s US election victory, but well before the real contours of the second Trump administration came into focus.

    The foreign minister’s diplomatic tone may have suited the less heated atmosphere of the time, but 2025 is a very different place. With the pillars of the international system New Zealand depends on crumbling, strong ties with an active Germany at the heart of Europe begin to look more important.

    Germans, too, are grappling with the same uncertainties – not least Friedrich Merz, the Christian Democratic Union party leader who is all but certain to be the new chancellor when coalition negotiations conclude.

    Among the most pro-American of Europe’s leaders, Merz will enter the Chancellery at a time when US relations are fraught. Even before the February election results were finalised, he acknowledged this new reality, calling to “strengthen Europe as quickly as possible so that […] we can really achieve independence from the USA”.

    With Trump’s reversal of US support for Ukraine, his “might is right” foreign policy and hostile trade tariffs, Germany and the European Union have begun to reassess their place in the new world order. New Zealand will be watching closely.

    Easing the ‘debt brake’

    Former German Chancellor Olaf Scholz called Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine a Zeitenwende – a watershed moment from which “the world afterwards will no longer be the same as the world before”. Trump 2.0 has only reinforced this rupture.

    Responding to events even before assuming office, Merz (supported by the Social Democratic Party and the Greens) reformed Germany’s “debt brake”, or Schuldenbremse.

    Restricting government borrowing to 0.35% of GDP, the brake was introduced by former chancellor Angela Merkel in 2009 to limit indebtedness following the global financial crisis. It achieved its aim, but contributed significantly to the current parlous state of German infrastructure and defence.

    The reform allows greater borrowing for defence and establishes a €500 billion infrastructure fund (with €100 billion for climate and economic transformation as the price for Green support).

    This is the first step in Merz’s goal to transform Germany from “a sleeping middle power to a leading middle power again”, and exercise greater leadership in the European Union alongside France and Poland.

    With Emmanuel Macron’s French presidency ending in 2027, and France’s far-right gaining strength (Marine Le Pen’s recent embezzlement conviction notwithstanding), a strong Germany at the heart of Europe is essential to the maintenance of the EU and its approach to world affairs.

    As an important – perhaps vital – partner for New Zealand and the Pacific, three key considerations stand out.

    A leading middle power: Friedrich Merz addressing Christian Democratic Union supporters in Berlin on election night, February 23.
    Getty Images

    Pacific re-engagement

    Germany’s ties with Samoa and the Pacific may be a century old, but it has recently begun looking south again, including opening an embassy in Suva in August 2023.

    Now, the Trump administration’s axing of USAID has put foreign aid in the region under a cloud. Pacific states are not eligible for German bilateral development support, but are covered by more general climate change and disaster preparedness programmes.

    Since stepping up Pacific engagement in 2022, Germany has also joined the Partners in the Blue Pacific and been an advocate for Pacific projects within the EU’s Global Gateway Initiative (a framework for global infrastructure investment).

    Importantly, Germany does not intend to establish significant independent Pacific aid projects. Rather, it sees itself as a “force multiplier”, partnering with other donors to support their efforts. New Zealand therefore has an opportunity to both strengthen relations with Germany and add impact to its own Pacific projects.

    Climate resilience

    Climate change is the single greatest security threat to Pacific island states, and yet another area the US is pulling back from. But while Germany has been a strong player on climate policy, Merz has been a critic of the Greens and environmental policy in general.

    The balance of power in the new Bundestag may now force a change of mindset. Merz’s coalition will hold just 328 seats in the 630-seat chamber, meaning Green support cannot be discounted. A more serious commitment to climate policy will be the price.

    There is a base to work from, too. Germany co-founded the UN Group of Friends on Climate and Security with Nauru in 2018, and has identified climate issues as a driving force behind its Pacific engagement. Again, this is an area where New Zealand’s interests can be served by closer engagement with Germany.

    The rules-based order

    Ultimately, the international trade system and multilateral frameworks for cooperation and conflict resolution are crucial pillars of the Germany-New Zealand relationship.

    With the US no longer a reliable backstop, Germany and the EU are also the bulwark for a rules-based order grounded in international law. Merz’s debt brake reform, seen as strengthening Europe, was framed in these terms:

    Our friends in the EU are looking to us just as much as our adversaries and the enemies of our democratic and rules-based order.

    “Germany is back,” Merz said in March. We may well see New Zealand’s foreign minister back in Germany before long, too.

    Mathew Doidge 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. ‘Germany is back’: 3 ways NZ can benefit from Europe’s renewed centre of power – https://theconversation.com/germany-is-back-3ways-nz-can-benefit-from-europes-renewed-centre-of-power-253926

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed & Whitehouse Seek Answers & Return of Maryland Father Wrongfully Deported to El Salvador

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed
    WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. Department of Justice admitted the deportation of Kilmar Abrego Garcia — a father who was living legally in the United States under protected status — was an “administrative error.”  Mr. Garcia, 29, who fled El Salavador in 2006 and migrated to the U.S. in 2011, is married with a five-year old child and two step children who are all U.S. citizens.  According to USA Today: After finishing a shift working as a sheet metal apprentice and picking up his son from his grandmother’s house, Mr. Garcia was pulled over by ICE officers in several vehicles and erroneously told that his status had changed.  He was handcuffed and placed in an ICE vehicle and eventually sent to an out of state detention facility before being flown out of the country to a notorious prison in El Salvador known as the Terrorism Confinement Center (CECOT).
    In 2019, an immigration judge granted Mr. Garcia protection from deportation on the grounds that he might be at risk of persecution from local gangs in his home country.  ICE officials under the Trump Administration in 2019 did not object to the judge’s ruling.
    Last week, Justice Department lawyer Erez Reuveni told a federal judge that Mr. Garcia “should not have been removed.”  The judge agreed and wrote a scathing opinion finding that the Trump Administration’s actions “shocks the conscience” and that the government had acted “without any lawful authority” and was holding Mr. Garcia in “direct contravention” of U.S. law.  The judge ordered the U.S. to return Mr. Garcia to the United States.  However, the Trump Administration contended Mr. Garcia could not be returned to the U.S. because he is in Salvadoran custody and U.S. courts have no jurisdiction there, even though the U.S. is reportedly paying the El Salvadoran government $6 million to house deportees from the United States.  Yesterday, the U.S. Supreme Court granted the Trump Administration’s request to temporarily block a lower court order.
    Today, 25 U.S. Senators, including Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Jack Reed (D-RI), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) wrote to U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Acting Director Tedd Lyons urging them to return Kilmar Abrego Garcia to the United States. 
    In their letter, the Senators call on the Trump Administration to comply with the lower court order requiring that they facilitate Abrego Garcia’s return and ask for responses to a series of questions regarding ICE’s enforcement policies that may have led to this grave error – and what measures they will take to ensure such an incident does not occur again.
    “We write to express our concerns regarding the deportation of Kilmar Abrego Garcia to El Salvador, an action which the Administration admitted in a recent court filing was an “administrative error.” It is unacceptable that anyone would be deported without proper due process, especially where an immigration judge has granted the individual protected status that explicitly prohibits his return to El Salvador. We demand that the Administration bring Mr. Abrego Garcia home immediately,” the 25 U.S. Senators wrote.
    “Per court filings, Mr. Abrego Garcia came to the United States in 2011 as a teenager fleeing gang threats in his home country of El Salvador. In 2019, ICE arrested Mr. Abrego Garcia over an unfounded and anonymous allegation that he was involved with MS-13, which placed him in deportation proceedings. The U.S. immigration judge in the case ultimately found that it was in fact Mr. Abrego Garcia who was at risk of being the victim of gang violence,” the Senators continued. “This ruling was made under the Trump Administration in 2019 and was in fact required by law under section 241(b)(3) of the Immigration and Nationality Act once the immigration judge made the factual determination that Mr. Abrego Garcia faced a likelihood of torture in El Salvador. At the time, the Trump Administration made no effort to appeal the judge’s ruling or pursue Mr. Abrego Garcia’s deportation further. Court filings attest that Mr. Abrego Garcia has complied with regular ICE check-ins, has no criminal charges, and has had no contact with any other law-enforcement agency since his release in 2019.
    “Mr. Abrego Garcia is currently being held at CECOT, a maximum-security prison in El Salvador notorious for human rights abuses, after being deported in violation of the law to the very country where his return was impermissible,” they noted. “And when the Administration makes a mistake as severe as sending an individual with protected status to a foreign prison, it cannot simply shrug off responsibility and allege that there is nothing it can do to reunite him with his wife and child, who are American citizens.
    “On Friday, a U.S. District Court judge in the District of Maryland ordered the government to return Mr. Abrego Garcia to the United States, and on Monday the Fourth Circuit denied the government’s motion to stay the order. The Administration should promptly comply with the district court’s order,” the Senators urged.
    In addition to Van Hollen, Reed, and Whitehouse, the letter was also signed by U.S. Senators: Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Chris Coons (D-DE), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Mark Warner (D-VA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).
    The Senators closed the letter with a series of questions to Secretary Noem and Acting Director Lyons:
    The standard and legal course for the government to take to deport someone with protected status would be to reopen the case, introduce evidence that grounds for terminating the protected status exist, and then allow an immigration judge to make a determination as to their status. Why was that course of action not taken in this case?  
    In the past, DHS and ICE worked to quickly return people to the U.S. who were erroneously deported. Why is DHS and ICE no longer following these well-established procedures and practices?   
    Vice President J.D. Vance and Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt have both claimed that Mr. Abrego Garcia is an MS-13 gang member, but the government was unable or unwilling to provide any evidence to substantiate that claim to the court. Please provide any evidence of Mr. Abrego Garcia’s membership in MS-13.
    Given that the Administration is reportedly paying $6 million to El Salvador to detain deported immigrants at CECOT, why does it believe that there is nothing it can do to return Mr. Abrego Garcia to his family in the United States? Please provide a copy of the agreement between the U.S. and El Salvador on the detention of people deported from the U.S. in CECOT.
    Are there any other cases that the Administration is aware of in which an immigrant with protected status was illegally deported without due process? If so, identify those cases and explain what, if anything the government is doing to rectify those errors. 
    Will the Administration commit to reviewing all of the cases of its deportees to ensure that it has appropriately identified all of the errors? 
    What actions will the Administration take in the future to ensure that immigrants with protected status are afforded their appropriate due process? 
    Full text of the letter follows:
    Dear Secretary Noem and Acting Director Lyons,?? 
    We write to express our concerns regarding the deportation of Kilmar Abrego Garcia to El Salvador, an action which the Administration admitted in a recent court filing was an “administrative error.” It is unacceptable that anyone would be deported without proper due process, especially where an immigration judge has granted the individual protected status that explicitly prohibits his return to El Salvador. We demand that the Administration bring Mr. Abrego Garcia home immediately.  
    According to court filings, on March 12, 2025, shortly after Mr. Abrego Garcia had picked up his son from the boy’s grandmother’s house, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) stopped Mr. Abrego Garcia, inaccurately telling him that his protected status had changed. After giving his wife a few minutes to arrive to take custody of his son, ICE arrested and detained him without any further explanation as to the reason for his arrest. ICE then transferred Mr. Abrego Garcia and other detainees to Texas, where on March 15, 2025, they were loaded onto planes and deported to El Salvador. Mr. Abrego Garcia was reportedly on the only plane that was not sent under the authority of the Alien Enemies Act but instead was transporting migrants with formal removal orders signed by a judge. This occurred despite the fact that ICE knew, as the Administration conceded in court, that his protected legal status specifically prohibited his removal to El Salvador.  
    Per court filings, Mr. Abrego Garcia came to the United States in 2011 as a teenager fleeing gang threats in his home country of El Salvador. In 2019, ICE arrested Mr. Abrego Garcia over an unfounded and anonymous allegation that he was involved with MS-13, which placed him in deportation proceedings. The U.S. immigration judge in the case ultimately found that it was in fact Mr. Abrego Garcia who was at risk of being the victim of gang violence. The judge found that Mr. Abrego Garcia and his relatives credibly testified that gang members had been trying to extort his family and recruit him and his brother to join the gang, forcing his family to move multiple times, ultimately compelling both him and his brother to flee to the United States out of fear.  
    The immigration judge agreed that Mr. Abrego Garcia would likely face persecution if deported back to El Salvador and thus granted him a form of legally mandated protection known as “withholding of removal.” Withholding of removal, which may only be granted by an immigration judge, provided Mr. Abrego Garcia the ability to stay and work in the United States despite being the subject of a deportation order. This ruling was made under the Trump Administration in 2019 and was in fact required by law under section 241(b)(3) of the Immigration and Nationality Act once the immigration judge made the factual determination that Mr. Abrego Garcia faced a likelihood of torture in El Salvador. At the time, the Trump Administration made no effort to appeal the judge’s ruling or pursue Mr. Abrego Garcia’s deportation further. Court filings attest that Mr. Abrego Garcia has complied with regular ICE check-ins, has no criminal charges, and has had no contact with any other law-enforcement agency since his release in 2019.  
    Mr. Abrego Garcia is currently being held at CECOT, a maximum-security prison in El Salvador notorious for human rights abuses, after being deported in violation of the law to the very country where his return was impermissible. Though the Administration has admitted in court that his deportation was a mistake, it alleges that there is nothing it can do to address this injustice, given that Mr. Abrego Garcia is now in the jurisdiction of the government of El Salvador as part of an agreement to imprison U.S. deportees in exchange for financial compensation.  
    Your unwillingness to immediately rectify this “administrative error” is unacceptable. Under multiple Democratic and Republican administrations, the Department of Homeland Security and ICE followed the rule of law and worked to quickly return people who were wrongfully deported, in the rare instances where such “administrative errors” occurred. The Administration’s mass deportation agenda does not transcend immigration law or the need for due process. And when the Administration makes a mistake as severe as sending an individual with protected status to a foreign prison, it cannot simply shrug off responsibility and allege that there is nothing it can do to reunite him with his wife and child, who are American citizens. On Friday, a U.S. District Court judge in the District of Maryland ordered the government to return Mr. Abrego Garcia to the United States, and on Monday the Fourth Circuit denied the government’s motion to stay the order. The Administration should promptly comply with the district court’s order.
    To address our concerns about this matter and to provide clarity on the Department of Homeland Security and ICE’s policy regarding the immigration enforcement actions against immigrants with protected status, we ask that your Administration answer the following questions by April 22, 2025: 
    The standard and legal course for the government to take to deport someone with protected status would be to reopen the case, introduce evidence that grounds for terminating the protected status exist, and then allow an immigration judge to make a determination as to their status. Why was that course of action not taken in this case?  
    In the past, DHS and ICE worked to quickly return people to the U.S. who were erroneously deported. Why is DHS and ICE no longer following these well-established procedures and practices?   
    Vice President J.D. Vance and Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt have both claimed that Mr. Abrego Garcia is an MS-13 gang member, but the government was unable or unwilling to provide any evidence to substantiate that claim to the court. Please provide any evidence of Mr. Abrego Garcia’s membership in MS-13.
    Given that the Administration is reportedly paying $6 million to El Salvador to detain deported immigrants at CECOT, why does it believe that there is nothing it can do to return Mr. Abrego Garcia to his family in the United States? Please provide a copy of the agreement between the U.S. and El Salvador on the detention of people deported from the U.S. in CECOT.
    Are there any other cases that the Administration is aware of in which an immigrant with protected status was illegally deported without due process? If so, identify those cases and explain what, if anything the government is doing to rectify those errors. 
    Will the Administration commit to reviewing all of the cases of its deportees to ensure that it has appropriately identified all of the errors? 
    What actions will the Administration take in the future to ensure that immigrants with protected status are afforded their appropriate due process? 
    We appreciate your prompt attention to this vital matter and look forward to reviewing your fulsome, timely response. 
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed & Whitehouse Seek to Raise Federal Minimum Wage to $17 by 2030

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed
    WASHINGTON, DC – The last time the federal minimum wage was raised it was July of 2009 – Barack Obama had just been elected president, iPads hadn’t come out yet, and the world was experiencing a global recession.  Since then, corporate profits have risen as has the costs of goods, but the federal minimum wage — which is supposed to ensure workers can afford the basic necessities — remains stuck at $7.25 an hour.
    U.S. Senators Jack Reed (D-RI) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) are looking to ensure American workers can earn a living wage, drive economic growth, and reduce income inequality by raising the minimum wage to $17 by 2030 for all workers and gradually raise the minimum wage for tipped workers, workers with disabilities, and youth workers.
    Today, Reed and Whitehouse teamed up with U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT), the Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP), to introduce the Raise the Wage Act.  This bill would incrementally raise the federal minimum wage to $17 an hour by 2030, benefiting an estimated 64,000 Rhode Islanders.  
    Rhode Island is among 30 states and the District of Columbia that have enacted higher wage floors.  Currently, the minimum wage in Rhode Island is $15 an hour.  Servers in the restaurant industry and other hospitality workers who derive a large portion of income from tips have had their hourly wages capped at $3.89 since 2017.
    Last year, nearly one in four workers in the U.S. made less than $17 per hour. The Raise the Wage will raise the federal minimum wage to $17 over five years, eliminate the tipped subminimum wage over seven years, eliminate the subminimum wage for workers with disabilities over five years, and eliminate the subminimum wage for youth workers over seven years. According to analysis by the Economic Policy Institute (EPI), passing the Raise the Wage Act of 2025 would provide raises to over 22.2 million workers across the country by 2030.
    If the federal minimum wage had increased with worker productivity over the last 57 years, it would be over $23 an hour today, not $7.25 an hour, which translates to a full-time salary of about $15,000 per year.
    “The $7.25 an hour minimum wage is a starvation wage. It must be raised to a living wage – at least $17 an hour,” Senator Sanders said. “In the year 2025, a job should lift you out of poverty, not keep you in it. At a time of massive income and wealth inequality, we can no longer tolerate millions of workers trying to survive on just $10 or $12 an hour. Congress can no longer ignore the needs of the working class of this country. The time to act is now.”
    “The federal minimum wage has been stuck at $7.25 for too long.  No one in today’s economy can make ends meet working for such meager pay.  Rhode Islanders deserve a raise and workers deserve to be fairly compensated.  Right now, those making minimum wage can’t afford housing, food, and transportation so taxpayers end up subsidizing employers that pay so little.  When all businesses have to operate on a level playing field with fair pay it helps prevent costly turnover and re-training of workers.  The Raise the Wage Act would help strengthen families, businesses, and our economy,” said Senator Reed.
    “As rising costs squeeze families across Rhode Island, it’s well past time to increase the federal minimum wage,” said Senator Whitehouse.  “Our legislation will help more Americans get a foothold in the middle class by paying them a livable wage.”
    Today, the value of the current federal minimum wage – $7.25 per hour – is the lowest it has been since 1956 and has declined by over 32 percent since it was last increased in 2009. While approximately four million tipped workers in the U.S. depend on tips for as much as half of their income or more, the tipped sub-minimum wage has remained stagnant at just $2.13 per hour since 1991. The current median wage for at least 37,000 workers with disabilities is just $3.50 per hour.
    Meanwhile, across every state in the country, a living wage for a worker in a family with two working adults and one child is greater than $17 per hour, according to the Economic Policy Institute’s (EPI) Family Budget Calculator. Many of these low-wage workers face persistent economic insecurity, struggling to put food on the table and afford basic necessities, including housing, health care, and childcare. Black and Hispanic workers disproportionately feel the burden of these low wages as compared to their white counterparts, and that disparity is even worse for women of color. Nearly 40 percent of Hispanic women and 35 percent of Black women make less than $17 per hour.
    Joining Sanders, Reed, and Whitehouse on this legislation are U.S. Senators: Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), John Fetterman (D-PA), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Patty Murray (D-A), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).
    More than 85 organizations endorsed the Raise the Wage Act of 2025, including: Service Employees International Union (SEIU), AFL-CIO, American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD), American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), American Federation of Teachers (AFT), Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN), Business for a Fair Minimum Wage, Communications Workers of America (CWA), Economic Policy Institute (EPI), Equal Pay Today, International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT), National Domestic Workers Alliance (NDWA), National Education Association (NEA), National Employment Law Project (NELP), The National Partnership for Women & Families, National Women’s Law Center (NWLC), One Fair Wage, Oxfam America, Patriotic Millionaires, UNITE HERE, United Autoworkers (UAW), United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW), United for Respect, and United Steelworkers (USW).
    Companion legislation has been introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Congressman Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (D-Va.), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Education and Workforce.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tillis, Gallego Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Expand Veterans’ Access to Skilled Trade Educational Programs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Carolina Thom Tillis

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) recently introduced the Veterans Education and Technical Skills (VETS) Opportunity Act, bipartisan, bicameral legislation that would extend educational benefits in the Post-9/11 GI Bill to include partially online (or hybrid) versions of skilled trade training programs. Joining Senators Tillis and Gallego were Senators Ted Budd (R-NC), John Cornyn (R-TX), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Bernie Moreno (R-OH), Gary Peters (D-MI), Rick Scott (R-FL), and Elissa Slotkin (D-MI). 

    “This commonsense legislation modernizes the Post-9/11 GI Bill to expand veterans’ access to high-quality skilled trade and vocational programs for in-demand career pathways like welding and HVAC, ensuring they have the tools and resources they need to succeed in today’s workforce,” said Senator Tillis. “By supporting hybrid learning opportunities, we’re providing veterans with the flexibility to gain critical skills, find gainful employment, and contribute to our economy after their service.”

    “Our veterans deserve access to training programs that prepare them for the modern economy, and increasingly those programs are happening in a hybrid format,” said Senator Gallego. “I’m proud to help introduce this bipartisan, commonsense bill that will expand educational opportunities for veterans so they can succeed after their service.” 

    Full text of the legislation is available HERE.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Multi-billion-pound investment secured as Universal theme park and resort set to be built in Bedford, bringing thousands of jobs

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Multi-billion-pound investment secured as Universal theme park and resort set to be built in Bedford, bringing thousands of jobs

    A multi-billion-pound investment in a major new Universal theme park and resort in Bedford has been agreed between Universal, the government and the local council, in a move that represents a major vote of confidence in the UK economy and the future of partnerships between the UK and the US.

    • The Prime Minister has today closed the deal on a new Universal theme park in Bedfordshire 
    • Plans will bring an estimated £50bn boost for the economy and create around 28,000 jobs in total across creative, hospitality and construction industries
    • Set to open in 2031, the theme park will form part of a new planned entertainment resort, due to include immersive storytelling, rides, attractions and hospitality
    • Deal firmly puts the UK on the global investment stage, delivering on the government’s Plan for Change, which will create growth and opportunities across the country

    A multi-billion-pound investment in a major new Universal theme park and resort in Bedford has been agreed between Universal, the government and the local council, in a move that represents a major vote of confidence in the UK economy and the future of partnerships between the UK and the US.

    The theme park, which is set to be one of the largest and most advanced in Europe, will bring nearly 20,000 jobs during the construction period, with a further 8,000 new jobs across the hospitality and creative industries when it opens in 2031. 

    Supporting the government’s Plan for Change to create economic growth and opportunities by getting people into well-paid, decent jobs across the creative, technology, tourism and hospitality sectors, Universal has committed to working with local colleges and universities to train the next generation of its hospitality workforce, including through a range of apprenticeships and internships.  

    As well as generating significant opportunities, the new theme park and resort will bring significant local benefits – with approximately 80% of employees at the theme park expected to come from local areas – and support a stream of ongoing work to unleash the potential of the Oxford-Cambridge corridor through growth, infrastructure revitalisation and further job opportunities.

    Universal expects the site to generate nearly £50 billion for the economy by 2055, with 8.5 million visitors expected in its first year – becoming the largest visitor attraction in the UK. This will support the government to deliver its growth mission – creating higher living standards and putting more money in people’s pockets.

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: 

    Today we closed the deal on a multi-billion-pound investment that will see Bedford home to one of the biggest entertainment parks in Europe, firmly putting the county on the global stage.

    This is our Plan for Change in action, combining local and national growth with creating around 28,000 new jobs across sectors such as construction, AI, and tourism.

    It is not just about numbers; it’s about securing real opportunities for people in our country. Together, we are building a brighter future for the UK, getting people into work and ensuring our economy remains strong and competitive.

    The development, working with Bedford Borough Council, will be the first Universal-branded theme park and resort destination in Europe and will be part of a larger 476-acre entertainment resort complex.

    Proposed plans from Universal Destinations & Experiences, a business unit of Comcast, include a world-class theme park with several themed lands featuring Universal’s distinct brand of immersive storytelling, thrilling rides, innovative attractions and exciting entertainment, all utilising sophisticated and advanced technology. Initial resort plans also feature a 500-room hotel and a retail, dining and entertainment complex.

    Mike Cavanagh, President of Comcast Corporation, said:

    We could not be more excited to take this very important step in our plan to create and deliver an incredible Universal theme park and resort in the heart of the United Kingdom, which complements our growing US-based parks business by expanding our global footprint to Europe. We appreciate the leadership and support of Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Chancellor Rachel Reeves, Minister for Investment Poppy Gustafsson, Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy and their teams, as we work together to create and deliver a fantastic new landmark destination.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said:

    At a time of global change, this investment is a vote of confidence in Britain as a place to do business. Universal’s investment will bring billions to the economy and create thousands of jobs to the UK, putting more money in people’s pockets.

    Mark Woodbury, Chairman and CEO of Universal Destinations & Experiences, said:

    Bringing a world-class theme park and resort to the United Kingdom is a tremendous opportunity and is part of our strategy to introduce the Universal brand and experiences to new audiences around the globe.  We appreciate the incredible support for our proposed project and look forward to bringing it to life in the years ahead.

    As part of the Plan for Change, the government will commit to a major investment in infrastructure around the site to support the delivery of the project and ensure it is well connected and easily accessible. It comes just days after the government signed-off the expansion of Luton Airport, showcasing how the government’s pro-growth agenda is delivering real-life benefits for working people. 

    The deal supports the UK’s world leading creative industries, a growth-driving sector identified in the government’s modern Industrial Strategy, which will be published this spring. The Strategy will drive investment into high growth sectors, unlocking jobs and growth right across the country.

    Universal Destinations & Experiences has a proven track record of building and operating major theme parks and resorts across the globe. A Universal development in the UK will join the company’s existing portfolio of destinations across the United States and Asia-Pacific. 

    The proposals remain subject to a planning decision from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

    Additional details on the project:

    • Please contact Universal Destinations & Experiences for artist impression and drone footage of the site: uprcorpcomm@uniparks.com
    • Further details on Government plans for infrastructure investment around the site will be set out in due course. 
    • The theme park resort will be built on the former Kempston Hardwick brickworks. More information on the project can be found at universalukproject.co.uk. 
    • The theme park and resort is subject to planning permission, which will be considered at a later date.

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    Published 9 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: At Hearing, Warren Grills Greer on Potential Job Losses From Trump Tariffs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    April 08, 2025

    Warren: “What you’re telling us is the fact that hundreds of thousands, even millions of people, could lose their jobs and that prices could go up will not be a factor for you or for Donald Trump for rolling those tariffs back.”

    Video of Exchange (YouTube)

    Washington, D.C. – At a hearing of the Senate Finance Committee, U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs, demanded answers from Ambassador Jamieson Greer, United States Trade Representative, on President Trump’s reckless tariffs that have the potential to lead the nation into an economic crisis.

    After President Trump’s announcement on his “reciprocal” tariffs on almost every country in the world, the stock market experienced its biggest drop since the first days of the pandemic. Senator Warren sounded the alarm about a likely recession, citing Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, who warned that the tariffs could lead to both “higher prices” and “higher unemployment.”

    Greer is responsible for developing and promoting the U.S. trade agenda and leading trade negotiations on behalf of the U.S. When asked if the Trump administration would reverse course on their tariffs if they cost workers their jobs and raised prices, Ambassador Greer refused to provide a straight answer.

    In fact, Greer insisted that Donald Trump’s on-again, off-again tariffs on China would bring “lower unemployment, lower inflation,” putting him at odds with economists of all political leanings.  

    “What you’re telling us is the fact that hundreds of thousands, even millions of people, could lose their jobs and that prices could go up will not be a factor for you or for Donald Trump for rolling those tariffs back,” said the senator. 

    Today, Senator Warren joined Ranking Member Ron Wyden in introducing legislation to repeal Donald Trump’s global tariffs. The resolution would terminate the emergency that Trump declared to slap tariffs of up to 49% on products Americans buy from other countries.

    “Look, if Republicans are serious about protecting American jobs and fighting inflation, then they can join Democrats right now to pass a resolution to fix Trump’s restless tariffs,” said the senator. “This economy is teetering on the edge of collapse. We have the power right here in the Senate and over in the House of Representatives to take this authority away from Donald Trump.”

    Transcript: Hearing to examine the President’s 2025 trade policy agenda.

    Senate Finance Committee

    April 8, 2025

    Senator Elizabeth Warren: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Donald Trump is single-handedly driving this economy off a cliff. With no evidence to back him up, he’s claimed emergency authorities to slap new tariffs on nearly every product we import, from nearly every country. 

    But Congress has the power to reverse those tariffs—and we should do so immediately. 

    Tariffs can be a tool to help build things in America. But Trump has slapped tariffs on, then off, on then off again with no rhyme or reason—and the uncertainty about the long-term rules makes companies far less likely to invest in manufacturing or jobs here in the United States. 

    If Congress doesn’t stand up to Trump, economists predict a recession before the end of the year, and Fed Chair Jerome Powell says we’re in a real danger of “both higher unemployment and higher inflation.” Translation: Trump’s tariffs will push millions of workers out of jobs and push prices up at the same time.

    So, Ambassador Greer, we’ve heard a lot of conflicting statements about whether these tariffs are here to stay, how many more rounds of on/off we’re going to do. So, let me ask the question from a different perspective.

    Ambassador Greer, we lost 700,000 jobs each month in the last recession. If 700,000 Americans lose their jobs, will the Trump administration suspend these tariffs?

    Ambassador Jamieson Greer: Senator, I think the economists who are making these projections, who often are in favor of fully unfettered free trade, are the same ones, you said in the first Trump term, that put tariffs— I just don’t think it’s going to happen, Senator.

    Senator Warren: Mr. Greer, let me just stop you there. I’m not asking about projections. I’m asking, if the numbers show that 700,000 people have lost their jobs because of these new tariffs that Trump has slapped on, will the administration reverse course and lift those tariffs? 

    Ambassador Greer: Senator, that’s not going to happen. We’ve lost 5 million manufacturing jobs over the years, which is the number I’m most worried about, and we have to get those jobs back. 

    Senator Warren: So, I take that as a no. Let me try another one. Moody says that if the Trump tariffs remain in place, we will definitely plunge into a recession, which will ultimately cost three and a half million Americans their jobs. 

    So, Ambassador Greer, if Trump’s tariffs push three and a half million people out of work, will the Trump administration reverse course and lift those tariffs? 

    Ambassador Greer: Senator, the Wall Street analysts are wrong. They never want to have any kind of change to the status quo–

    Senator Warren: I’m not asking if they’re right or wrong–

    Ambassador Greer: But that’s who you’re quoting to me, Senator.

    Senator Warren: I’m giving you a number. If the number is three and a half million, if it never comes to pass, you don’t have to worry about your answer, but if three and a half million people lose their jobs because of these tariffs, is the Trump administration prepared to lift them? 

    Ambassador Greer: Right now, this minute, we’re working on negotiations with countries who believe they can achieve reciprocity with us and get their trade deficit down, and that’s the emergency we’re focused on. There’s not going to be a situation where, years from now, we’ve lost millions of jobs.

    Senator Warren: Let me try one more time: if Trump tariffs push workers out of their jobs and raise prices as Fed Chair Powell has predicted, will you reverse course then?

    Ambassador Greer: I think also with respect to Chairman Powell, who I don’t know personally, but I know the President makes decisions on trade, and he rarely takes advice from Chairman Powell on this. We found in Trump One that you could put tariffs on China and you could make it work and have lower income, sorry, lower unemployment, lower inflation, and increase real median household income over time as we reshore and that’s what we have to do, Senator. 

    Senator Warren: What I’m hearing you say is that no one can hear a rhyme or reason to why the tariffs are off again, on again, off again, on again. But what you’re telling us is the fact that hundreds of thousands, even millions of people, could lose their jobs and that prices could go up will not be a factor for you or for Donald Trump for rolling those tariffs back. Look, if Republicans are serious about protecting American jobs and fighting inflation, then they can join Democrats right now to pass a resolution to fix Trump’s restless tariffs. This economy is teetering on the edge of collapse. We have the power right here in the Senate and over in the House of Representatives to take this authority away from Donald Trump. We can get this voted on. Senator Wyden and I have already, are about to, introduce the bill to do that, and if Republicans are serious about not playing the red light green light with tariffs but instead about protecting our economy, our families, our jobs, and keeping prices low, then Republicans should join us on that. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Childcare places increased in Liverpool thanks to grant funding

    Source: City of Liverpool

    Over 2,500 new childcare places are being created in Liverpool that will support working parents – and there are more to come.

    The increase has been made possible by grant funding received from the government to support the national expansion of funded childcare places as well as places which are part of the “wraparound” programme for primary school-aged children.

    So far, Liverpool City Council has awarded over £1.5m to providers which will create 366 early years places, 303 before-school places and 1,858 after-school places – 2,527 in total – for youngsters from families with eligible working parents. And a fourth round of applications is due to open shortly.

    The grant funding streams, which can support either capital work such as buildings or equipment for early years places, or increasing staff numbers and other running costs for wraparound places, has been distributed to childcare settings, such as nurseries or child minders, or breakfast and after-school clubs for primary school children.

    Ofsted-registered providers were invited to apply for funding as part of a stringent process. Applicants had to provide financial accounts, cashflow forecasts and a business plan. If providers were applying for building work they also needed to supply a quote, with further quotes requested if their application was successful. Providers were also visited by the grants team to talk through their project.

    For each funding stream, a grant panel team assessed all applications against numerous criteria to ensure fairness, with 78 being successful. Successful providers will continue to have their projects monitored to ensure value for money.

    Applications received by the council ranged from converting unused rooms to complete new builds.

    From last April, the national expansion of funded childcare places has seen eligible working parents of two- year-olds able to access 15 hours a week of childcare with the offer further expanded to nine-month olds up to three-years-olds last September. The offer is set to expand further from this September with children aged from nine months to three years able to access 30 hours of childcare a week.

    Since changes to the entitlements, uptake in Liverpool has been impressive. With 94 per cent of eligible families of two-year-olds who applied for a Childcare Choices code now taking up a funded place when the first change was implemented, equating to 1,756 children.

    With the further expansion to nine-month-olds to three-year-olds 97 per cent of families who applied for a code took up a funded place, equating to 2,085 children now benefitting from an early years education.

    Parents eligible for funded childcare should visit the Childcare Choices website.

    Cllr Liz Parsons, cabinet members for Children’s Social Services, said: “It’s great news that early years providers in Liverpool have grasped this opportunity to apply for funding to ensure that as many as possible of our working families can take up the expanded childcare offer.

    “Our early years providers are vital for Liverpool, not only ensuing that parents are able to work but that youngsters get the benefits of an early years education which is so important for their development as they get ready to set off on their school journey.

    “It is also exciting to see that the wraparound offer in the city is set to become stronger which will again give more support to working parents.

    “The available funding has been carefully allocated by the council’s panel to ensure that real value is generated for Liverpool’s families and we’re already looking forward to seeing the applications we receive in the fourth round.”

    Neil Verdin, headteacher at Pleasant Street Primary School, one of the providers which has secured funding for its wraparound service, said: “The successful grant application has allowed Pleasant Street to increase our capacity for extended provision.

    “Previously, we were unable to meet the demand due to restricted space but now the grant contributed to a modern new ‘Cedar Room’ being built. This has allowed us to increase our intake, with available spaces currently matching parental requests for places.”

    Brian Quinn, owner of The Childcare Academy in the Baltic Quarter, said: “The government expansion grant has been a great opportunity. What we’ve been able to do is open a new space for nine additional babies, 15 spaces for pre- and after-school clubs and a holiday club in the summer holidays.

    “We’ve had an exponential growth and success with the expansion grant, and we couldn’t be happier with the result.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Matthews Asia Co-Founder Mark Headley Returns as Executive Chairman

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN FRANCISCO, April 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Matthews Asia today announced that co-founder and former Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mark Headley, has been appointed Executive Chairman and will assume the CEO responsibilities. Mark, who will continue to serve on the Matthews Asia Board of Directors and as the newly appointed Chairman and interim CEO, succeeds Cooper Abbott, who left the firm on April 7, 2025.

    Mark Headley brings his extensive investment and operational leadership back to the firm he co-founded with Paul Matthews in 1995. During his long tenure at the firm, he held both CEO and CIO roles as well as being a Portfolio Manager on a range of mutual funds. Under Mark’s leadership, he helped guide the firm through a significant period of growth as well as managing the firm during challenging periods in financial markets that included the Global Financial Crisis in 2007.

    Over his two decades at Matthews, and in partnership with Paul Matthews, Mark helped lead the evolution and growth of the firm to become a leading and highly regarded Emerging Market investment manager for Asia-focused investments. With a strong commitment to active management and fundamental research, he helped the firm develop its investment approach and build a deep bench of investment talent. The firm’s focus on investments in Asia and Emerging Markets created a unique value proposition which remains in place today along with a deeply embedded client-centric culture.

    Paul Matthews, founder, said, “I am extremely pleased that Mark has been appointed Executive Chairman of the firm we founded together over 30 years ago. During Mark’s time at Matthews, the success of this firm had been driven by his deep understanding of Asia’s markets and an unwavering focus on exceeding our clients’ expectations. I am confident that Mark is the right person to lead the company. As a former CEO and Portfolio Manager of Matthews, he has the proven strategic and operational leadership experience that will help the firm navigate through these challenging markets and set the firm onto a path towards its next period of growth and innovation.”

    Mark Headley, Executive Chairman, said, “I am delighted to be rejoining Matthews. I am particularly excited to work closely with Sean Taylor, CIO, and a talented group of experienced professionals at the firm. I am confident that we can deliver long-term growth opportunities for our clients, employees and shareholders.”

    About Matthews Asia

    Matthews is an independent, privately owned investment manager founded in 1991 on a belief that Global Emerging Markets offer exceptional long-term growth potential. As a trusted and experienced investor, Matthews takes a long-term, active, fundamental investment approach to construct highly differentiated portfolios that focus on Emerging Markets, Asia and China. The firm manages assets on behalf of institutions, advisors and individual investors globally in vehicles that include SMAs, mutual funds and active ETFs. For more information about Matthews, please visit www.matthewsasia.com.

    Media Contact in the U.S.:
    Dukas Linden PR
    Sarah Lazarus/Christian Healey
    +1 617-335-7823/+ 1 781-439-2500
    sarah@dlpr.com/christian@dlpr.com

    Media Contact in Europe/Asia:
    Mark Lidstone
    Matthews Asia
    mark.lidstone@matthewsasia.com

    Disclosure
    This announcement is for informational purposes only and does not, in any way, constitute investment advice or an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security or product mentioned herein. Investing in international and emerging markets may involve additional risks, such as social and political instability, market illiquidity, exchange-rate fluctuations, a high level of volatility and limited regulation.
            
    Matthews Asia is the brand for Matthews International Capital Management, LLC and its direct and indirect subsidiaries.

    The MIL Network –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn, Colleagues’ Bill to Help Adjust Military Life Insurance for Inflation Passes House

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Ted Cruz (R-TX), and Angus King (I-ME) and Representatives Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) and Keith Self (TX-03) released the following statements after their Fairness for Servicemembers and their Families Act, which would help ensure life insurance packages for service members and veterans account for increases in cost of living and inflation, passed the House of Representatives: 

    “We need to make sure service members, veterans, and their families have the financial support they need and deserve,” said Sen. Cornyn. “Our bill would help ensure the Veterans Affairs Department can offer competitive life insurance packages that keep pace with the current cost of living.”

    “While we can never fully repay the debt that we owe to those who serve our country, we should work each and every day to get them the benefits that they deserve,” said Sen. Hassan. “This bipartisan legislation will help ensure that the life insurance offered for our veterans and servicemembers is keeping pace with real-world costs to help protect the financial security of the families of those who serve.”

    “Our nation’s service members and veterans put their lives on the line to protect America and defend our freedom,”said Sen. Cruz. “I am proud to partner with my colleagues to honor and provide for those who bravely sacrificed to serve the United States of America. Adjusting the value of the life insurance policies of servicemembers and veterans in line with inflation will ensure that America rightly honors their memory and cares for their loved ones after they are gone.”

    “Our servicemembers, veterans and their families make countless sacrifices every day to protect our nation, and we are indebted to their selfless service,” said Sen. King. “With the bipartisan Fairness for Servicemembers and their Families Act, we can ensure life insurance packages for military members adjust with the rising cost of living — giving more peace of mind to military families as they increasingly face the difficulties of an unstable economy. I’m grateful to my colleagues for coming together to honor our commitment to the brave men and women who have given so much to our country.”

    “Our servicemembers put their lives on the line for their country, and we must secure the well-being of their families and loved ones in the event of a tragedy,” said Rep. Strickland.“The passage of this bill makes it clear that Congress continues to stand by our military families.” 

    “I’m proud the House came together in unanimous support and passed the Fairness for Servicemembers and their Families Act of 2025,” said Rep. Self. “This commonsense legislation ensures that our veterans and their families receive the full value of the benefits they’ve earned by requiring the Department of Veterans Affairs to review and adjust the maximum coverage for servicemembers’ and Veterans’ Group Life Insurance programs to keep pace with inflation, ensuring these benefits keep pace with rising costs.”

    This legislation is also cosponsored by Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), and Mazie Hirono (D-HI).

    Background:

    The Fairness for Servicemembers and their Families Act would help ensure the maximum group insurance available to service members and veterans account for increases in cost of living. From 2006 to 2023, the maximum insurance value available for service members and veterans remained static, lagging far behind inflation rates. This bill would strengthen the financial safety net for veterans, service members, and their families by requiring a report to the U.S. Veterans Affairs Department, the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, and the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs regarding cost of living increases and inflation rates every five years to ensure they don’t go years without assessing inflation rates.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Automotive Component Manufacturer Selects Scotland County for Southeast Operation, Adding 35 New Jobs

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Automotive Component Manufacturer Selects Scotland County for Southeast Operation, Adding 35 New Jobs

    Automotive Component Manufacturer Selects Scotland County for Southeast Operation, Adding 35 New Jobs
    lsaito
    Tue, 04/08/2025 – 16:52

    Raleigh, NC

    Today, Governor Josh Stein announced Bailey Manufacturing Company (BMC), a manufacturer of stamped metal automotive parts, will add 35 new jobs in Scotland County. The company will invest more than $4.3 million in a new production facility in Laurinburg. 

    “Bailey Manufacturing’s decision to locate to Scotland County is more proof that North Carolia is a top state for businesses across all industries,” said Governor Josh Stein. “Our state’s manufacturing legacy and longstanding commitment to innovation will continue to attract growing companies to every corner of the state.” 

    Bailey Manufacturing supplies stamped metal components for the automotive industry. In addition to metal stamping, the New York-based company also offers machining, welding, and assembly services for its list of customers, including automotive manufacturers such as General Motors and many others. BMC produces and ships 13 million parts annually throughout the United States, Mexico, China, and South Africa. The 50,000-square-foot facility in Laurinburg will double production capacity for BMC and offer more manufacturing, warehousing, and administrative space. 

    “Bailey Manufacturing is excited to join the growing list of automotive suppliers in North Carolina.  Our new southeast facility will allow us to better serve our growing customer base,” said John Hines, President of Bailey Manufacturing Company. “I want to thank North Carolina, Scotland County, Scotland County EDC and the City of Laurinburg for their assistance in making this project a reality and look forward to a prosperous future together.”  

    “BMC is a great addition to our automotive supply chain of more than 250 manufacturers,” said N.C. Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley. “North Carolina is home to 20 of the top global OEM suppliers, the largest manufacturing workforce in the Southeast, and one of the largest state-maintained transportation networks to get parts to customers all over the world.” 

    While wages vary by position, the annual average salary for the new positions will be $52,000, exceeding Scotland County’s average of $46,708. These new jobs could potentially create an annual payroll impact of more than $1.8 million for the region. 

    A performance-based grant of $120,000 from the One North Carolina Fund will help the company locate to North Carolina. The OneNC Fund provides financial assistance to local governments to help attract economic investment and to create jobs. Companies receive no money upfront and must meet job creation and capital investment targets to qualify for payment. All OneNC grants require matching participation from local governments and any award is contingent upon that condition being met. 

    “I am pleased to welcome Bailey Manufacturing Company to Scotland County,” said N.C. Senator Danny Earl Britt. “Our hardworking people are ready to help the company establish its operation in Laurinburg that will lead to future success.” 

    “These new jobs and investment are welcome additions for our community,” said N.C. Representative Garland E. Pierce. “This decision by Bailey Manufacturing Company validates Scotland County as a great place for growing companies to do business.” 

    In addition to the North Carolina Department of Commerce and the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, other key partners in this project include the North Carolina General Assembly, North Carolina Community College System, Richmond Community College, North Carolina’s Southeast, Scotland County, Scotland County Economic Development Corporation, and City of Laurinburg. 

    Apr 8, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Secret Service Seizes Another Web Domain Used in Furtherance of a Cryptocurrency “Pig Butchering” Scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALBANY, NEW YORK – The U.S. Secret Service in the Northern District of New York has seized a second web domain used in a recent cryptocurrency confidence crime known as “pig butchering.”  United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III, and Jeffrey Burr, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of the United States Secret Service (USSS), made the announcement.

    In pig butchering schemes, scammers encounter victims, often but not always elderly victims, through a variety of ways, including on dating applications and social media websites, and even random text messages masquerading as a wrong number. Scammers initiate relationships with victims and slowly gain their trust, eventually introducing the idea of making a business investment using cryptocurrency. Victims are then directed to other members of the scheme running fraudulent cryptocurrency investment platforms, where victims are persuaded to invest money. Once the money is sent to the fake investment application, the scammer vanishes, taking all the money with them, often resulting in significant losses for the victim.

    According to court records, between November 2023 and March 2024, scammers induced a Warren County victim to wire monies to the now-seized domain NFT-UNI.com.  The scammers — using the confidence-building techniques described above — convinced the victim that he/she was investing in a legitimate cryptocurrency opportunity. After the victim transferred investments into the deposit addresses that the scammers provided in connection with the seized domain name, the victim’s funds were immediately transferred through numerous bank accounts in an effort to conceal the source of the funds. In total, the victim lost approximately $172,405.61.  Other victims of the NFT-UNI.com fraud reported approximately $4,564,936.47 in losses.

    Previously, in May 2024, the U.S. Secret Service seized the web domain OKEX-NFT.net, which was also used in a pig butchering scheme in Warren County. 

    United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III said, “by seizing this website, we are able to strike a blow to a criminal organization that financially victimized numerous individuals, including a member of our community and senior citizens around the country.”

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Elizabeth Conger and Alexander Wentworth-Ping represented the U.S. Attorney’s Office in this matter.

    Related court documents and information are located on the online docket for the United States District Court for the Northern District of New York (available via www.pacer.gov), by searching for Case No. 1:25-SW-78 (PJE). 

    If you believe you are a victim of this type of scheme, please contact CryptoFraud@SecretService.gov or IC3.gov to file a report. Please provide detailed information in your report, including any purported investment websites visited, telephone numbers, email accounts, and social media profiles used by scammers, and any cryptocurrency addresses, transaction hashes, and dates of transactions. Your responses are voluntary. Based on the information provided, you may be contacted by the Secret Service or another law enforcement agency and asked to provide additional information.

    This case is part of the Department of Justice’s Elder Justice Initiative. The mission of the Elder Justice Initiative is to support and coordinate the Department’s enforcement and programmatic efforts to combat elder abuse, neglect and financial fraud and scams that target our nation’s older adults. Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving elders can call the National Elder Fraud Hotline at 1-833-372-8311.

    MIL Security OSI –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján, Smith Introduce Legislative Package to Support Union Workers, Protect Workers’ Right to Organize

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)
    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and Tina Smith (D-Minn.) announced the introduction of the No Tax Breaks for Union Busting Act and the Tax Fairness for Workers Act, two pieces of legislation that will level the playing field for labor organization and restore fairness in the tax code for workers.
    The No Tax Breaks for Union Busting Act:
    U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), and Cory Booker (D-N.J.) led 25 Senate colleagues in introducing the No Tax Breaks for Union Busting Act, legislation that levels the playing field for labor organization and ensures workers truly have a fair shot at forming a union. As workers across the country fight for better pay and safer working conditions by unionizing, they often face million-dollar corporate intimidation campaigns to prevent unionization, which corporations are then allowed to write off as run-of-the-mill business expenses. The No Tax Breaks for Union Busting Act would classify business’ interference in worker organization campaigns like political speech under the tax code and therefore make it ineligible for a tax deduction.
    The legislation is supported by the Communications Workers of America Union (CWA), the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO), United Steelworkers (USW), Laborers’ International Union of North America (LIUNA), International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAMAW), American Federation of Teachers (AFT), International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers (SMART), United Food & Commercial Workers International Union (UFCW), American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), and the Center for American Progress. Full bill text is available here.
    The Tax Fairness for Workers Act:
    Led by U.S. Senators Tina Smith (D-Minn.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), the Tax Fairness for Workers Act would reverse a provision in the 2017 tax reform package that stripped workers of their ability to deduct common expenses incurred as a result of their work. Workers bare the full cost of union dues, which can average $800 per year, but in addition, must pay for work-related expenses like travel, tools, and uniforms – expenses that they can no longer write off after the 2017 tax reform. The Tax Fairness for Workers Act would furthermore create an “above the line” deduction for union dues, so workers can use it even if they don’t itemize. Full bill text is available here.
    “Organized labor built our country and American workers deserve to have a fair shot at forming a union and deserve fairness in the tax code,” said Senator Luján. “The No Tax Breaks for Union Busting Act and Tax Fairness for Workers Act are critical pieces of legislation that will protect workers’ right to organize and support our union workers. I’m proud to partner with Senators Smith and Booker on these critical efforts to strengthen American labor.”
    “Rich and powerful corporations should not be getting tax breaks for making workers’ lives harder.” said Senator Smith. “Workers have a fundamental right to organize for better working conditions. These bills will put working people first and ensure that unionized workers can exercise their right to organize. Corporations don’t deserve tax subsidies for depriving workers of that right, and this legislation would put a stop to it.”
    “American taxpayer dollars should not be used to subsidize union busting,” said Senator Booker. “The No Tax Breaks for Union Busting Act is critical legislation to put an end to corporations receiving tax breaks for interfering with workers’ rights to unionize for better pay and safer working conditions.”
    “It is unacceptable for Congress to support anti-worker tax provisions, especially when they’re considering more tax cuts for the wealthy while ignoring the urgent needs of working families. It’s time to give workers their fair share. Our tax code should prioritize workers organizing to have a voice on the job. That is why we wholeheartedly support the No Tax Breaks for Union Busting Act and the Tax Fairness for Workers Act. We commend Senators Lujan, Smith, and Booker and all those championing a fairer tax system for working families,” said CWA Director of Government Affairs, Dan Mauer.
    “Workers who exercise their fundamental freedom to form and join unions should never face intimidation and retaliation from corporate bosses. As we’ve seen a wave of union organizing across the country over the last several years, we’ve also witnessed a wave of companies using often illegal union-busting tactics to stop their workers from standing together in a union. Companies that bully and intimidate workers who want a union on the job should never reap financial benefits. This legislation would put an end to it. We fully support this important effort to hold union-busting CEOs accountable so they pay meaningful penalties for their blatantly anti-democratic behavior,” said AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Nadler Leads New York Delegation Letter Requesting Full State Funding for MTA Capital Plan

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jerrold Nadler (10th District of New York)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Yesterday, Representative Jerrold Nadler (D-NY), Dean of the New York Congressional Delegation, led a letter signed by members of New York’s delegation to Governor Kathy Hochul, Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins, and Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, requesting full funding of the $68.4 billion MTA Capital Plan for 2025–2029 as part of this year’s state budget.

    The letter comes as the Trump Administration has moved to rescind federal approval of New York’s congestion pricing plan and has threatened to withhold critical transit funding, actions that could jeopardize vital infrastructure projects across the state.

    In their letter, the Members wrote: “By ensuring that the MTA Capital Plan is adequately funded, we can fortify our transit infrastructure, shield New Yorkers from unpredictable actions from the Trump Administration, and make proactive investments to protect the region’s economy from future disruptions.

    “The MTA’s Capital Plan is essential for maintaining a modern, resilient, and efficient transit system that meets the needs of all New Yorkers. With the potential loss of federal funding jeopardizing critical transit infrastructure projects, it is crucial that we secure full state funding to mitigate any budget shortfalls and safeguard the transformative improvements outlined in the Capital Plan. The consequences of deferred maintenance are already evident, as over 13,000 equipment failures result in delays annually.

    “Fully funding the Capital Plan is not just about keeping trains and buses running. It is a crucial step in preserving our region’s economic stability and ensuring that public funds are spent wisely. The MTA service area is home to nearly 70% of all jobs in New York State, and the transit system plays a vital role in keeping the state’s economy moving. According to a recent report from the Partnership for New York City, the 2025–2029 Capital Plan is projected to generate $106 billion in economic output and more than 70,000 jobs statewide, including nearly 20,000 jobs outside of New York City,” the Members continued.

    Representative Nadler was joined on the letter by Reps. Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Timothy Kennedy (NY-26),  Nydia Velázquez (NY-7), and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14)

    Full text of the letter can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Shapiro Delivers Keynote at Pennsylvania Farm Bureau State Legislative Conference in Harrisburg, Highlighting His Administration’s Historic Investments in Agriculture to Support the Commonwealth’s Farmers, Growers, and Producers

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    April 08, 2025 – Harrisburg, PA

    Governor Shapiro Delivers Keynote at Pennsylvania Farm Bureau State Legislative Conference in Harrisburg, Highlighting His Administration’s Historic Investments in Agriculture to Support the Commonwealth’s Farmers, Growers, and Producers

    Governor Josh Shapiro delivered the keynote address at the annual Pennsylvania Farm Bureau (PFB) State Legislative Conference, speaking to agricultural industry leaders from all across the Commonwealth about his Administration’s strong record of supporting Pennsylvania’s farmers. During his remarks, the Governor reaffirmed his commitment to investing in the Commonwealth’s agricultural industry, and warned of the risks posed by new federal tariffs and cuts to U.S. Department of Agriculture programs that support farmers and food banks.

    Governor Shapiro emphasized that agriculture is at the center of his Administration’s efforts to create economic opportunity across Pennsylvania. The Governor’s Economic Development Strategy – the first statewide economic development plan in nearly two decades – puts agriculture at the forefront, recognizing that a thriving agricultural industry is essential to the Commonwealth’s economic growth. The Shapiro Administration has consistently prioritized investments that strengthen and support the agriculture sector.

    “Over the last two years, I’ve spent a lot of time on farms across Pennsylvania, listening to our farmers and seeing firsthand the challenges they face and the incredible work they do to power our economy and put food on our tables. I kept those conversations top of mind as we developed the Commonwealth’s first Economic Development Strategy in nearly 20 years – and I made sure agriculture is front and center in that plan,” said Governor Shapiro. “My Administration has made real investments in the future of agriculture – from funding the PA Farm Bill, to launching the first-in-the-nation Agricultural Innovation Grant Program, to opening new Centers of Excellence, and expanding PA Preferred. We’ve delivered commonsense solutions to help farmers lower costs, preserve farmland, open new markets, address the real challenges they face, and strengthen the entire agricultural industry. Pennsylvania is leading the way in driving economic growth in our agriculture sector, and I will keep fighting for our farming families.”

    Speaker list:
    Chris Hoffman, President, Pennsylvania Farm Bureau
    Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding
    Governor Josh Shapiro

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: LANCASTER COUNTY – Governor Shapiro to Visit Lancaster Small Businesses, Highlight Administration’s Historic Investments in Main Streets Across Pennsylvania

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    April 09, 2025 – Lancaster, PA

    ADVISORY – LANCASTER COUNTY – Governor Shapiro to Visit Lancaster Small Businesses, Highlight Administration’s Historic Investments in Main Streets Across Pennsylvania

    Governor Josh Shapiro will join local leaders for a tour of small businesses along a main street in Lancaster to highlight the Shapiro Administration’s actions to grow Pennsylvania’s economy while investing in our Main Streets and commercial corridors.

    This week, Governor Shapiro announced that his Administration is investing in 81 community projects across Pennsylvania through the Main Street Matters program, fulfilling a key promise he made to help revitalize downtowns, support small businesses, and strengthen local economies. Lancaster County alone is receiving more than $1 million as part of this week’s announcement.

    WHO:
    Governor Josh Shapiro
    Mayor Danene Sorace
    Representative Ismail Smith-Wade-El
    Marshall Snively, President of Lancaster City Alliance
    Laura Haiges, Owner of BellaBoo

    WHEN:
    Wednesday, April 9, 2025, at 10:45 AM

    WHERE:
    Ric’s Bread
    24 N. Queen Street,
    Lancaster, PA 17603

    LIVE STREAM:
    pacast.com/live/gov
    governor.pa.gov/live/

    RSVP:
    Press who are interested in attending must RSVP with the names and phone numbers for each member of their team to ra-gvgovpress@pa.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: TransAlta to Host Annual Meeting of Shareholders and First Quarter 2025 Results Conference Call

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CALGARY, Alberta, April 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    2025 Annual Meeting of TransAlta Corporation Shareholders

    On Thursday, April 24, 2025, TransAlta Corporation (“TransAlta”) (TSX: TA) (NYSE: TAC) will hold its annual meeting of shareholders at 11:30 a.m. Mountain Time (1:30 p.m. Eastern Time) in a virtual-only meeting format via live audio webcast (https://meetings.400.lumiconnect.com/r/participant/live-meeting/400-164-661-424). The management proxy circular (available at https://transalta.com/investors/results-reporting/) provides detailed information about the business of the meeting and the voting process. TransAlta will only conduct the formal business of the meeting and there will not be a management presentation.

    First Quarter 2025 Conference Call

    TransAlta will release its first quarter 2025 results before markets open on Wednesday, May 7, 2025. A conference call and webcast to discuss the results will be held for investors, analysts, members of the media and other interested parties the same day beginning at 9:00 a.m. Mountain Time (11:00 a.m. Eastern Time).

    First Quarter 2025 Conference Call:
    Webcast link: https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/wzq2tgtc

    To access the conference call via telephone, please register ahead of time using the call link: https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BI49f11ff999b449caa13c201afbb053aa. Once registered, participants will have the option of 1) dialing into the call from their phone (via a personalized PIN); or 2) clicking the “Call Me” option to receive an automated call directly to their phone.

    Related materials will be available on the Investor section of TransAlta’s website at https://transalta.com/investors/presentations-and-events/. If you are unable to participate in the call, the replay will be accessible at https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/wzq2tgtc. A transcript of the broadcast will be posted on TransAlta’s website once it becomes available.

    About TransAlta Corporation:

    TransAlta owns, operates and develops a diverse fleet of electrical power generation assets in Canada, the United States and Australia with a focus on long-term shareholder value. TransAlta provides municipalities, medium and large industries, businesses and utility customers with affordable, energy efficient and reliable power. Today, TransAlta is one of Canada’s largest producers of wind power and Alberta’s largest producer of thermal generation and hydro-electric power. For over 113 years, TransAlta has been a responsible operator and a proud member of the communities where we operate and where our employees work and live. TransAlta aligns its corporate goals with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the Future-Fit Business Benchmark, which also defines sustainable goals for businesses. Our reporting on climate change management has been guided by the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) S2 Climate-related Disclosures Standard and the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) recommendations. TransAlta has achieved a 70 per cent reduction in GHG emissions or 22.7 million tonnes CO2e since 2015 and received an upgraded MSCI ESG rating of AA.

    For more information about TransAlta, visit its website at transalta.com.

    Note: All financial figures are in Canadian dollars unless otherwise indicated.

    For more information:

    Investor Inquiries: Media Inquiries:
    Phone: 1-800-387-3598 in Canada and U.S. Phone: 1-855-255-9184
    Email: investor_relations@transalta.com Email: ta_media_relations@transalta.com

    The MIL Network –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Lifts Burdensome EPA Restrictions on Coal Plants

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    SUPPORTING OUR NATION’S COAL INDUSTRY: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed a proclamation granting two-years of relief from a stringent Biden-era environmental rule to certain coal-fired power plants, safeguarding the Nation’s energy grid and security, and saving coal plants from closure.
    The proclamation allows certain coal plants to comply with a less stringent version of the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS) rule for two years, instead of the more onerous version put in place by the Biden Administration.
    The move ensures these plants are not prematurely forced offline due to unattainable compliance requirements under the new rule.
    ADDRESSING THE THREAT TO NATIONAL SECURITY AND ENERGY STABILITY: President Trump recognizes that environmental advocate overreach jeopardizes America’s energy reliability, economic vitality, and national security.
    Coal is essential to our Nation’s grid, making up 16% of U.S. electricity generation.
    Compliance with the Biden-era standards requires the application of emissions-control technologies that, for many coal plants, are not commercially viable.
    The current compliance timeline of the Biden-era rule could force widespread coal plant shutdowns, risking thousands of jobs and the stability of our electrical grid.
    These shutdowns could lead to electricity shortages, increased reliance on foreign energy, and heightened vulnerability during crises.
    This relief is necessary to maintain operational coal plants, protect energy security, and allow time for viable technology solutions, avoiding broader risks to America’s economy and defense readiness.
    BALANCING ENVIRONMENTAL STANDARDS WITH AMERICAN PROSPERITY: President Trump has consistently prioritized a pragmatic approach, ensuring environmental policies support rather than undermine America’s economic strength and national security.
    President Trump has sought to protect American industries while maintaining standards that allow Americans to have among the cleanest air and water in the world.
    He directed the EPA to repeal the Obama-era Clean Power Plan during his first term, replacing it with the Affordable Clean Energy rule in 2019 that set achievable standards to preserve jobs while addressing emissions.
    He paused the expansion of windmills, recognizing their detrimental environmental impact, particularly on wildlife, often outweighs their benefits.
    He has championed an energy dominance strategy, boosting domestic oil and gas production to reduce reliance on foreign energy while maintaining practical environmental oversight.
    His approach encourages industry to develop cost-effective solutions like improved emissions technologies rather than imposing unfeasible mandates that risk economic disruption.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Reinvigorates America’s Beautiful Clean Coal Industry

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    ACHIEVING AMERICAN ENERGY DOMINANCE: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order reinvigorating America’s beautiful clean coal industry. The Executive Order:
    Directs the Chair of the National Energy Dominance Council to designate coal as a “mineral” under Executive Order 14241, entitling coal to all of the benefits of that prior Order.
    Directs relevant agencies to identify coal resources on Federal lands, lift barriers to coal mining, and prioritize coal leasing on those lands.
    Directs the Secretary of the Interior to acknowledge the end of the Jewell Moratorium, which paused coal leasing on Federal lands.
    Requires agencies to rescind any agency policies that seek to transition the Nation away from coal production or otherwise establish preferences against coal as a generation resource.
    Directs CEQ to assist agencies in adopting coal-related categorical exclusions under NEPA.
    Seeks to promote coal and coal technology exports, facilitate international offtake agreements for U.S. coal, and accelerate development of coal technologies.
    Calls for the Secretary of Energy to determine whether coal used in the production of steel meets the definition of a “critical material” and “critical mineral” under the Energy Act of 2020, and if so, add it to the relevant lists.
    Pushes for using coal to power new artificial intelligence (AI) data.
    INCREASING DOMESTIC ENERGY PRODUCTION: President Trump believes that coal is essential to our national and economic security.
    The coal industry supports hundreds of thousands of jobs and adds tens of billions to the U.S. economy each year.
    America’s coal resources are vast, with a current estimated value in the trillions of dollars.
    Coal-fired electricity generation is cleaner than ever, yet the previous administration waged war on coal.
    Coal will be critical to meeting the rise in electricity demand due to a resurgence of domestic manufacturing and the construction of AI data processing centers. 
    Supporting our coal industry will increase our energy supply, lower electricity costs, stabilize our grid, create high-paying jobs, support burgeoning industries, and assist our allies.
    FUELING THE NATION: By reinvigorating clean coal, President Trump is following through on his promise to once again unleash American energy.
    President Trump: “We will develop the liquid gold that is right under our feet, including American oil and natural gas and we will also embrace nuclear, clean coal, hydropower, which is fantastic, and every other form of affordable energy to get it done.”
    This Executive Order builds on actions President Trump has already taken to bring Americans the lowest-cost energy and electricity on earth. This includes:
    Withdrawing from the Paris Climate Agreement.
    Revoking Biden executive actions that hampered American energy production.
    Terminating the Green New Deal.
    Unleashing Alaska’s extraordinary resource potential.
    Declaring a national energy emergency.
    Reversing the pause on liquefied natural gas (LNG) export permits.
    Cutting red tape to speed up the Federal permitting process.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ranking Member Stansbury Introduces Resolution of Inquiry Into DOGE’s Unsanctioned Use of Government Data, AI

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

    WASHINGTON—Rep Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee Committee on Delivering on Government Efficiency, led Committee Democrats in introducing   Resolution of Inquiry to investigate DOGE’s unsanctioned use of government data and artificial intelligence (AI) and its impact on American privacy and national security. 

    “The American people demand to know why Elon Musk and DOGE are hacking our private and sensitive data and what they are doing with it. This includes Social Security, IRS, Treasury, and other highly sensitive data,” said Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), Ranking Member of the DOGE Oversight Subcommittee. “Today, I dropped an oversight resolution demanding the Administration provide answers about what it is doing with our data and how it is using Artificial Intelligence to data mine our systems. It is our duty to fight for answers and get to the bottom of what exactly DOGE and Musk are doing with our data.” 

    A Resolution of Inquiry (ROI) would require the Administration to provide documents, communications, and factual information. Once introduced, the committee to which the ROI is referred has 14 legislative days to act on and report the resolution to the House or it will become privileged on the House floor. This action is necessary because the Administration has failed to provide clear information on how DOGE has risked the security of federal information systems, including through the use of AI. Instead, the Administration has deliberately kept DOGE’s actions shrouded in secrecy. 

    The resolution would require the Administration to provide documents, communications, and information regarding:  

    • How data and AI are being used by DOGE at federal agencies; 
    • The federal data and sources of federal data that may have been fed into any AI system; including details of whether any of this information contained sensitive data of American citizens; 
    • Any concerns raised by federal employees that the use of AI violates the Privacy Act or the security of Americans’ personal information; 
    • Any concerns raised by federal employees that the use of AI violated the Advancing American AI Act by failing to publicly disclose current and planned AI use cases; and
    • Lists of federal expenditures, programs, or personnel identified by AI for freezes or cuts.

    On March 12, 2025, Committee Democrats sent letters to 24 federal agencies requesting documentation that any potential use of AI at their agencies complies with federal laws, protects Americans’ sensitive and private data, and does not financially benefit Elon Musk. 

    Click here to read the Resolution of Inquiry. 

    Click here to read the one-pager explaining why this Resolution of Inquiry is necessary and how it works.

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Stansbury: Imposing Tariffs Will Hurt Americans

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Representative Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), issued the following statement after President Trump imposed more tariffs on the American people:

    “Once again, Donald Trump and his administration are using hard-working Americans as props in their trade war with other countries. Imposing tariffs will hurt Americans, full stop.

    “Trump’s handling of tariffs is not only reckless but shortsighted as it will hurt American farmers and manufacturers, crash markets, drive up prices, and undercut investments that keep jobs in America.

    “Coupled with reckless cuts to vital federal programs and the social safety net, Donald Trump and Congressional Republicans are putting the economy and American lives at risk. We must continue to push back on all fronts.”

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch, Colleagues Release Bipartisan Legislation to Repeal Trump’s Ruinous Global Tariffs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), a member of the Senate Finance Committee,joined Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Senators Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Rand Paul (R-Ky.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) in releasing a bipartisan resolution to repeal Donald Trump’s global tariffs and reassert Congress’s trade authorities. The Senators’ resolution would terminate the emergency that Trump declared in order to apply tariffs of up to 49% on products Americans buy from other countries. In the wake of Trump’s tariff declaration, markets have cratered, manufacturers have laid off thousands of workers and foreign countries have retaliated by imposing their own tariffs on U.S. agricultural and manufactured goods. 
    “The President’s reckless global trade war has already gone far beyond everyone’s worst predictions. In just a matter of days, President Trump has thrown the economy into chaos and wiped out Vermonters’ retirement funds–all in an apparent attempt to achieve deeply misguided foreign policy goals,” said Senator Welch. “Congress must stand up and reassert our constitutional role in setting trade policy before Trump’s tariffs ruin more lives and livelihoods.” 
    “Trump is driving our economy into a recession, killing jobs and wiping out seniors’ retirement funds as we speak,” said Senator Wyden. “Enough is enough. No president should have the power to tax everything Americans buy without being accountable to Congress. Unless Republicans join with Democrats and take back Congress’s power over trade policy, the damage could take years to reverse.” 
    “Tariffs are taxes, and the power to tax belongs to Congress—not the president. Our Founders were clear: tax policy should never rest in the hands of one person,” said Senator Paul. “Abusing emergency powers to impose blanket tariffs not only drives up costs for American families but also tramples on the Constitution. It’s time Congress reasserts its authority and restores the balance of power.” 
    “Make no mistake – the president’s ill-conceived and chaotic trade war is nothing but a tax on American families,” said Senator Schumer. “Trump is leading America headfirst into a recession, with no plans on how to right the cratering economy. The Senate has the power and authority to stop this madness and we have a duty to act in a bipartisan way to repeal these tariffs, which is why I am proud to co-sponsor this legislation. It’s time for Republicans to stand up for American families, lower costs, save seniors’ retirement funds, and prevent a global economic crisis.”  
    “No President has the authority to unilaterally impose such sweeping across-the-board tariffs without congressional approval,” said Senator Kaine. “President Trump’s tariff strategy is raising costs on American families, threatening alliances our national security depends on, and creating opportunity for China and other adversaries to take advantage of global instability. The time is now for Congress to reassert its authority in matters of international trade, and I hope my colleagues on both sides of the aisle will join us.” 
    “The administration’s ill-considered, short-sighted tariffs are a historic tax hike on American families – jacking up the price of gas, fruit, coffee and other groceries, electronics, cars and everything in between,” said Senator Shaheen. “President Trump’s chaotic trade war targets close allies like Canada and Europe even while sparing adversaries like Russia — leaving America weaker, more isolated and distrusted around the globe. I’m proud to help introduce this resolution to force the administration to end these taxes before it does irreparable harm to American families and our international leadership role.”  
    “Donald Trump’s reckless agenda will hurt American families, small businesses, and manufacturers,” said Senator Warren. “The Trump tariffs are economic sabotage, and Congress has the power to stop them. Republicans can join Democrats and end this today.” 
    The resolution will be formally filed at a later point, when it will be treated as a privileged resolution that must receive a vote on the Senate floor. Read and download the full text of the resolution. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Demands Answers from Trade Representative on Trump’s Trade War: “This is utter chaos, arbitrary and willful on the part of the President.” 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a contentious Finance Committee hearing today, U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) demanded answers from U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) Jamieson Greer on how President Trump’s destructive trade war has created global economic chaos and harmed Vermont businesses, farms, and families. Senator Welch pressed Ambassador Greer on how the Trump Administration’s reckless across-the-board tariffs are undercutting fair competition and creating an ‘access economy’ in which success is determined based on personal relationships with officials in President Trump’s inner circle. 
    “What is being rolled out and the way this is being done is so destructive, and so reckless, and so irresponsible, that it’s creating nothing but economic chaos, uncertainty, and suffering for a lot of people. These are really disastrous for Vermont…” said Senator Welch. “Let me tell you the frustration I have. There is a place for targeted tariffs to help us and also to push back on unfair trade practices. I support that. That’s not what this is. This is utter chaos, arbitrary and willful on the part of the President that is setting up a dynamic where he picks winners and losers rather than companies compete to do the best they can and have the benefit of good work and a good product.” 
    Watch the exchange between Senator Welch and Ambassador Greer: 
    Read excerpts of their exchange below: 
    Welch: The issue of these tariffs—now the phone is ringing off the hook at the White House from countries wanting to get a break, right? 
    Greer: They want to talk about how to have reciprocal trade with us and how to get that deficit down. 
    Welch: That’s right. So, here’s the structural issue that is really alarming to me, and I hope to all of us. We are using these tariffs—or the President is using these tariffs—from going from an economy that’s based on competition to one that’s based on access. You know, in a competitive economy, your product, your service, determines the outcome and how well you do. In an access economy, it’s who’s got Donald Trump’s number, who’s got your number, who’s got [Commerce Secretary] Lutnick’s number. You call up and you get a break. That’s an access economy. Is this going to be the arbitrary authority of the President to decide: ‘Yes, we’ll cut the Vietnam tariff,’ and ‘No, we’ll sustain the tariff on Lesotho’? 
    Greer: The way this works, Senator, is we have long-standing relationships with trade officials in these foreign countries and they work with our staff, our career staff, and they develop—if someone comes to us with an offer, we review it, we analyze it, and we present it to the President… 
    Welch: They’re calling the President. I mean, you’ve got Donald Trump, as President, basically picking and choosing winners and losers—and who knows on what basis. That’s not a trade regime that anybody can count on. That’s something they can gain if they know you, they know Lutnick, they know Donald Trump…We’ve got farmers on the border with Canada, they get their grain—it’s going to be 25% hit. We’ve got consumers whose electricity bills are going up because of retaliation from Canada. Can they make a call to you, to Howard Lutnick, to the President, and ask for relief? 
    Greer: Well, we certainly talk to all kinds of constituents—we talk to labor unions, we talk to civil society, we talk to business. I would say with Canada and Mexico, they receive duty-free treatment for things that follow the rules of USMCA. If they bring in Chinese content and send it down, they won’t get a break. 
    Welch: Well, let me tell you the frustration I have. There is a place for targeted tariffs to help us and also to push back on unfair trade practices. I support that. That’s not what this is. This is utter chaos, arbitrary and willful on the part of the President that is setting up a dynamic where he picks winners and losers rather than companies compete to do the best they can and have the benefit of good work and a good product.
    During Greer’s nomination hearing before the Senate Finance Committee, Senator Welch demanded answers on the impact of the trade war on American businesses and consumers and outlined the cost of Trump’s new tariffs for Vermont industries.  
    Senator Welch has been outspoken in opposing President Trump’s destructive trade war. On Tuesday, Senator Welch joined bipartisan colleagues in releasing a resolution to repeal Donald Trump’s chaotic global tariffs. The Senators’ resolution would terminate the emergency that Trump declared in order to slap tariffs of up to 49% on products Americans buy from other countries. Senator Welch has also supported legislation pushing back against Trump’s tariffs, including: 
    The Trade Review Act, bipartisan legislation to reaffirm Congress’ key role in setting and approving U.S. trade policy and reestablish limits on the President’s ability to impose unilateral tariffs without the approval of Congress. 
    The Tariff Transparency Act of 2025, legislation to require the United States International Trade Commission to conduct an investigation and submit a report on the impact on businesses in the United States of duties, and the threat of duties, on imports from Mexico and Canada. 
    A Joint Resolution of Disapproval terminating national emergency related to Canadian energy tariffs, passed by the Senate last week on a bipartisan basis. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla, Schiff, Whitesides, Levin Lead Bipartisan, Bicameral CA Delegation Push to Preserve ARCHES Hydrogen Hub Funding

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    Padilla, Schiff, Whitesides, Levin Lead Bipartisan, Bicameral CA Delegation Push to Preserve ARCHES Hydrogen Hub Funding

    The network of hydrogen hubs promotes American energy independence, lowers costs for consumers, and creates hundreds of thousands of jobs across California
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff (both D-Calif.), along with Representatives George Whitesides (D-Calif.-27) and Mike Levin (D-Calif.-49), led a bipartisan, bicameral delegation of 45 lawmakers in urging the Department of Energy (DOE) to preserve funding for hydrogen production hubs, specifically California’s Alliance for Renewable Clean Hydrogen Energy Systems (ARCHES). The letter follows reports that DOE is considering eliminating funding for the development of four hydrogen hubs, including ARCHES.
    These cuts would break existing agreements while leading to significant job losses and a reduction in growth of new energy resources. With federal, private, and state matching funds, ARCHES is projected to create over 200,000 jobs in California and generate more than $2.95 billion annually in economic value by 2030.
    “As bipartisan members of the California delegation, we write with concern about reports that the U.S. Department of Energy is planning to cancel the hydrogen hub award commitment made to California’s Alliance for Renewable Clean Hydrogen Energy Systems (ARCHES),” wrote the lawmakers. “As the administration evaluates existing energy investments and pathways to make energy affordable, we respectfully urge you to continue supporting the Alliance for Renewable Clean Hydrogen Energy Systems Hub in California. ARCHES plays a critical role in securing American energy dominance, advancing world-leading energy technology, creating new manufacturing jobs, and lowering energy costs for American families.”
    “The investment is already being used to bring together private industry, local governments, and community organizations to collaborate and build a secure, American-made energy future,” continued the lawmakers. “We view ARCHES as a strategic investment in American energy innovation, an all-of-the-above energy strategy, and energy independence and competitiveness.”
    In addition to Padilla, Schiff, Whitesides, and Levin, the letter was also signed by Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.-11) and Representatives Pete Aguilar (D-Calif.-33), Nanette Barragán (D-Calif.-44), Ami Bera (D-Calif.-06), Julia Brownley (D-Calif.-26), Salud Carbajal (D-Calif.-24), Judy Chu (D-Calif.-28), Gilbert R. Cisneros, Jr. (D-Calif.-31), Lou Correa (D-Calif.-46), Jim Costa (D-Calif.-21), Mark DeSaulnier (D-Calif.-10), Vince Fong (R-Calif.-20), Laura Friedman (D-Calif.-30), John Garamendi (D-Calif.-08), Robert Garcia (D-Calif.-42), Jimmy Gomez (D-Calif.-34), Adam Gray (D-Calif.-13), Josh Harder (D-Calif.-09), Jared Huffman (D-Calif.-02), Sara Jacobs (D-Calif.-51), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-Calif.-37), Ro Khanna (D-Calif.-17), Young Kim (R-Calif.-40), Sam Liccardo (D-Calif.-16), Ted Lieu (D-Calif.-36), Zoe Lofgren (D-Calif.-18), Doris Matsui (D-Calif.-07), Dave Min (D-Calif.-47), Kevin Mullin (D-Calif.-15), Jay Obernolte (R-Calif.-23), Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif.-19), Scott Peters (D-Calif.-50), Luz Rivas (D-Calif.-29), Raul Ruiz (D-Calif.-25), Linda Sánchez (D-Calif.-38), Brad Sherman (D-Calif.-32), Lateefah Simon (D-Calif.-12), Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.-14), Mark Takano (D-Calif.-39), Mike Thompson (D-Calif.-04), Norma Torres (D-Calif.-35), Derek Tran (D-Calif.-45), David Valadao (R-Calif.-22), Juan Vargas (D-Calif.-52), and Maxine Waters (D-Calif.-43).
    Senator Padilla has been a strong supporter of the development of clean hydrogen power in California. Padilla secured up to $1.2 billion for the ARCHES hydrogen hub from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and sent a letter to former Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm urging the Department of Energy to support ARCHES’ proposal as part of its Regional Clean Hydrogen Hubs program. Last week, Padilla, Senator Schiff, and 25 other Democratic Senators sounded the alarm on DOE’s “hit list” of key energy projects, demanding Secretary of Energy Chris Wright follow the law and preserve the hydrogen hub program. Padilla also questioned President Trump’s nominee for Deputy Secretary of Energy on the hit list, highlighting the importance of the Regional Clean Hydrogen Hubs program to “jumpstart” the national hydrogen economy and urging him to protect vital funding for ARCHES.
    Full text of the letter is available here and below:
    Dear Secretary Wright:
    As bipartisan members of the California delegation, we write with concern about reports that the U.S. Department of Energy is planning to cancel the hydrogen hub award commitment made to California’s Alliance for Renewable Clean Hydrogen Energy Systems (ARCHES). As the administration evaluates existing energy investments and pathways to make energy affordable, we respectfully urge you to continue supporting the Alliance for Renewable Clean Hydrogen Energy Systems Hub in California. ARCHES plays a critical role in securing American energy dominance, advancing world-leading energy technology, creating new manufacturing jobs, and lowering energy costs for American families.
    In July 2024, the Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations (OCED) awarded $30 million to the California Hydrogen Hub through the Alliance for Renewable Clean Hydrogen Energy Systems to initiate hydrogen hub projects, following its selection as one of seven regional hubs in October 2023. These projects – and the economic growth and American jobs they support – are dispersed across the State of California from the Ports of Los Angeles, Long Beach, and Oakland to the reservation of the Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians to Lancaster, California. The investment is already being used to bring together private industry, local governments, and community organizations to collaborate and build a secure, American-made energy future. As California’s Hydrogen Hub, ARCHES anticipates the creation of 220,000 good paying jobs, from research and development (R&D) to manufacturing and maintenance of renewable hydrogen systems. This, in turn, promotes public-private partnerships to expand our STEM workforce.
    We view ARCHES as a strategic investment in American energy innovation, an all-of-the-above energy strategy, and energy independence and competitiveness. With that, we respectfully request that you continue supporting ARCHES and provide time for the California hub and its member organizations to further justify their vital role in meeting the energy goals of the administration.
    Thank you, and we look forward to your response.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla, Bipartisan National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology Urge Swift Action to Boost Economy, Protect U.S. National Security

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    Padilla, Bipartisan National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology Urge Swift Action to Boost Economy, Protect U.S. National Security

    Biotech Commission report emphasizes: Emerging biotechnology is key to continued U.S. dominance and securing future economic growth in a new era of global competition
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and the other Commissioners of the bipartisan National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology (NSCEB) delivered their major report and action plan, urging Congressional action to bring the full weight of American innovation to improve and maintain U.S. global leadership in biotechnology. Padilla was appointed to serve as a Congressional Commissioner after Congress formed the Commission in the Fiscal Year 2022 National Defense Authorization Act.
    For decades, the United States has been the global leader in biotechnology innovation. Today’s Commission report found that the United States is dangerously close to falling behind China. The Commission reports that the United States’ growing dependence on China for numerous critical supply chain elements is a national security vulnerability. Biotechnology is key to increasing supply chain security, resilience, and scalability by allowing the United States to control its own access to critical components.
    “Biotechnology holds immense potential to transform numerous key sectors of our economy and will create good-paying jobs at all skill levels in agriculture, health care, defense, industrial manufacturing, and more. I am proud to be part of this commission that is ensuring the United States maintains our national security and economic competitive advantages as biotechnology grows across industries,” said Senator Padilla.
    “The United States is locked in a competition with China that will define the coming century. Biotechnology is the next phase in that competition. It is no longer constrained to the realm of scientific achievement. It is now an imperative for national security, economic power, and global influence. Biotechnology can ensure our warfighters continue to be the strongest fighting force on tomorrow’s battlefields, and reshore supply chains while revitalizing our manufacturing sector, creating jobs here at home,” said Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.).
    The Commission found that emerging biotechnology is rapidly advancing, and the impact of biotechnology innovation already extends far beyond health, touching industries from agriculture and infrastructure to manufacturing and defense. The intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and biotechnology is accelerating this impact.
    The Commission also reported that biotechnology will drive the next wave of battlefield innovation and will be used to secure supply chains, enhance readiness, streamline logistics, improve resilience, and counter biological threats before they emerge.
    Furthermore, the Commission assessed that the future of American biotechnology leadership requires strategic federal action that encourages innovation by spurring private investment. This includes targeted investments and strategic government reforms to reduce regulatory bottlenecks.
    In addition to Senators Padilla and Young, the bipartisan Commission includes Representatives Stephanie Bice (R-Okla.-05) and Ro Khanna (D-Calif.-17), as well as outside experts.
    “As emerging technologies transform the national security landscape, both the United States and our adversaries are gaining new capabilities. The United States must take the lead in biotechnology and propel us ahead of China in the 21st century,” said Representative Bice.
    “We must embolden the best and brightest in biotechnology to innovate boldly. American ingenuity is stifled by outdated regulations in this sector. Only Congress can open the door to the American-led biotechnological future,” said Representative Khanna.
    “Technology is not inherently good or bad, but who uses it matters. Biotechnology can have tremendous potential for good or tremendous potential for harm. The Chinese government has made biotechnology a strategic national priority for 20 years. The U.S. must reassert our global leadership to remedy this strategic weakness. We must be the ones driving the standards for how biotechnology is developed and used,” said NSCEB Vice Chair Dr. Michelle Rozo.
    The Commission’s report laid out six pillars for action and makes 49 recommendations. Full details can be found here.
    Pillar 1: Prioritize biotechnology at the national level
    Pillar 2: Mobilize the private sector to get U.S. products to scale
    Pillar 3: Maximize the benefits of biotechnology for defense
    Pillar 4: Out-innovate our strategic competitors
    Pillar 5: Build the biotechnology workforce of the future
    Pillar 6: Mobilize the collective strengths of our allies and partners
    Last year, Senators Padilla and Young introduced a bipartisan package of bills focused on protecting America’s food security and agricultural supply chains, which are critical to U.S. national security. Padilla also announced the Commission’s first round of findings and recommendations for policymakers in an interim report outlining the promise of biotechnology for U.S. national security and economic competitiveness and growth.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville, Rogers Lead Effort to Expand the Talladega National Forest

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Tommy Tuberville (Alabama)

    Legislation would strengthen conservation efforts and boost tourism in the area.

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) joined U.S. Representative Mike Rogers (R-AL-03) in introducing the Talladega National Forest Expansion Act. The Talladega National Forest Expansion Act would expand the proclamation boundary of the Talladega National Forest by approximately 50,000 acres in three counties in East Alabama. This bill gives the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) the authority to purchase land from willing sellers—stimulating the local economies and promoting conservation in the surrounding areas.

    Alabama’s premiere hiking trail, the Pinhoti Trail System, would be greatly enhanced upon the USFS acquirement of these acres.

    “The Talladega National Forest is one of many reasons to visit Alabama,” said Sen. Tuberville. “From beaches to mountains to forests to lakes, we truly have it all in our state. But we have to make sure we take the right steps to conserve our resources. By expanding the proclamation boundary, we will boost tourism in surrounding towns and keep the forest beautiful for years to come. I’m thankful to be working with Rep. Rogers to expand the Forest’s boundaries and ensure continued economic and agricultural prosperity in our great state.”

    “I was glad to join Coach Tuberville in this effort to allow the expansion of the boundary of the Talladega National Forest by 50,000 acres,” said Rep. Rogers. “The proposed expansion to complete the southern portion of the Pinhoti Trail will provide a large boost to our local outdoor tourism industry. I was glad to work closely with our local leaders on this legislation and am hopeful to see an undivided Pinhoti Trail in the near future.”

    “The Alabama Trails Foundation applauds the leadership of Senator Tuberville and Congressman Rogers in introducing this important legislation,” said Paul DeMarco, President, Alabama Trails Foundation. “The expansion of the Talladega National Forest represents a legacy of commitment to outdoor recreation and conservation. It lays the foundation for making the Pinhoti Trail an even more popular destination and positions east Alabama to continue growing an outdoor recreation economy into a powerhouse that spotlights the importance of Alabama’s natural resources.”

    Talladega County Commission, Coosa County Commission, Clay County Commission, and Alabama Trails Foundation have endorsed this legislation.

    Read full text of the legislation here. 

    BACKGROUND:

    The Talladega National Forest was established in 1936 with two distinct proclamation boundaries: the Oakmulgee Division and the Talladega Division. Currently, the Talladega Division has a proclamation covering 400,000 acres with roughly 200,000 acres under ownership by the U.S. government. Since its establishment, the proclaimed boundary of the Talladega National Forest has been adjusted nine times, most recently in the 1990 Farm Bill.

    The Pinhoti Trail, part of the Talladega National Forest, is Alabama’s longest-distance hiking trail. Currently, the trail is interrupted by 15 miles of road walks between its southernmost portions. This legislation would allow those lands to be acquired by the USFS, improve trail maintenance efforts, and improve hiker safety by transforming the 15-miles of road walks into off-road trails.

    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: North Carolina U.S. Attorneys Host Ceremony In Observance Of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week , April 6-12, 2025

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CHARLOTTE, N.C – In April, the Justice Department’s Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) leads communities across the country in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW). This year’s observance takes place April 6-12, 2025.

    NCVRW began in 1981 to honor crime victims, promote victims’ rights, and recognize those who work with and advocate on behalf of victims of crime. It also serves to promote policies and programs that help victims of crime. This year’s NCVRW theme, “Connecting < KINSHIP > Healing,” recognizes that shared humanity should be at the center of supporting all survivors and victims of crime.

    To commemorate NCVRW, the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the Western, Middle, and Eastern Districts of North Carolina hosted a ceremony in Raleigh, to promote community engagement, raise awareness, and support and honor crime victims. The ceremony featured music by “The 100 Men in Black Ensemble” and remarks by victim advocates and survivors. The program also included a remembrance ceremony for crime victims and an award ceremony to recognize individuals for their superior service and work with victims and survivors. 

    Acting U.S. Attorney Randall Galyon (MDNC), U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson (WDNC), and Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar (EDNC) attended today’s NCVRW Ceremony in Raleigh 

    “We wish there were no victims of crime, and eliminating crime is our goal and motivation.  During National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, we reaffirm our commitment to that goal, and to crime victims, survivors, and their families,” said Russ Ferguson, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. “My Office will continue to work closely with our community partners, advocates, and law enforcement to uphold victims’ rights, and to ensure that victims’ voices are heard not just this week, but every day of the year.”

    “Each year during National Crime Victims’ Week, we recognize people whose physical, financial, and emotional well-being has been shattered by crime, and those who work to support them. By reflecting upon and honoring victims, victim advocates, and law enforcement professionals, we renew our commitment to seeking justice and giving hope to victims and their families,” said Randall Galyon, Acting United States Attorney for the Middle District of North Carolina. “Throughout the coming year, we will continue to bring our very best efforts to this work, protecting the fundamental human rights to ‘life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.’”

    “Today we honor the victims of crimes and celebrate those who work to restore hope in the face of loss and tragedy,” said Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina. “We greatly appreciate the sacrifices that our law enforcement partners and victim advocates make to serve, creating the community necessary to build the healing victims deserve.”

    For additional information about this year’s National Crime Victims’ Rights Week and how to assist crime victims in your community, please visit OVC’s website at www.ovc.gov.

    Additional information about the U.S. Attorney’s Office Victim/Witness Assistance Program can be found here. 

    MIL Security OSI –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Sacramento County Man Sentenced to over 5 Years in Prison for Bank Fraud, Possession of Stolen Mail, and Possession of Mail Keys or Locks

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Senior U.S. District Court Judge John A. Mendez sentenced Adam Lee, 38, of Orangevale, to five years and four months in prison for bank fraud, possession of stolen mail, and possession of mail keys or locks, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced.

    According to court documents, Lee obtained and counterfeited postal keys, which he used to steal mail from mailboxes. From the stolen mail, Lee obtained identifying information, financial information, and bank checks of other people. He then attempted to negotiate, deposit, or cash the stolen checks. Lee and his co-defendant, Windy Lund, possessed more than $273,000 in stolen checks that they either attempted to negotiate or possessed with the intent to negotiate.

    This case was the product of an investigation by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elliot C. Wong prosecuted the case.

    Lund is scheduled to be sentenced on April 22, 2025, before Judge Mendez.

    MIL Security OSI –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell Questions Trump Trade Head on Tariffs That Have ‘Wreaked Havoc on the Economy’

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell

    04.08.25

    Cantwell Questions Trump Trade Head on Tariffs That Have ‘Wreaked Havoc on the Economy’

    In committee hearing, USTR Jamieson Greer said Trump not backing off tariffs that caused global markets to plummet; Last Thursday, Cantwell introduced a bipartisan bill that would reassert Congress’ role in setting & overseeing U.S. trade policy; In less than a week, her legislation has picked up 12 new cosponsors, half Ds and half Rs, & received endorsement from world’s largest retail trade org

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), senior member of the Senate Finance Committee and ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, pressed United States Trade Representative Jamieson Greer on the administration’s slapdash implementation of sweeping tariffs without sufficient input or accountability to Congress.

    Prior to President Trump’s implementation of the tariffs, there was no formal bipartisan briefing of Congress detailing how the tariff rates were set, analyzing on how they might impact the American economy, or even communicating what the White House was aiming to accomplish.

    “What did the Trump administration do to prepare [Congress], to communicate with us, to tell us about findings as it relates to these emergency orders by the President?” Sen. Cantwell asked during a hearing today in the Senate Finance Committee.

    “Our staff, the USTR staff, in the in the past two months that we’ve been in office, have had over 200 formal engagements with staff on the Hill,” Greer responded. “We also had the President issue very publicly his America First trade policy memorandum, which specifically said that he was going to look into the trade deficit and the possibilities of tariffs.”

    Cantwell responded: “So, we’ve wreaked havoc on the economy by having one of the largest drops of the market. We have people’s 401(k)s, in panic. We have retail organizations, like the retail industry, National Retail Federation, American Apparel Industry, Outdoor Association, Consumer Technology, Computer and Communications Industry, Main Street Alliance, Small Business Majority, all anxious, asking us to do something. And you’re saying, ‘Well, some people have passed some notes to staff.’”

    She continued: “We should be building alliances as a way to counter China, but the alliance building process now will become harder, and people are going to wonder, well, is the United States going to pull another fast one again and just wreak havoc?”

    Greer said the United States has seen “many times in past decades when we have had real robust trade disputes with our partners.”

    Sen. Cantwell responded: “I’m for trade. I represent trade. I represent a trade economy. I represent the success of what innovation and trade gets you. But you’re coming here this morning with this, not only tanking of the market and 401(k)s, now you’re coming here telling me that tariff is the tool. And I’m telling you — innovation is the tool!”

    The bill has since picked up 12 additional cosponsors – an equal mix of Republicans and Democrats – and been endorsed by multiple major U.S. business organizations, including the National Retail Federation, which is the largest retail trade association in the world.

    In addition, a bipartisan group has introduced a companion version of Sen. Cantwell’s legislation in the House of Representatives, also cosponsored by equal numbers of Republicans and Democrats.

    The bill restores Congress’ authority and responsibility over tariffs as outlined in Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution by placing the following limits on the president’s power to impose tariffs:

    • To enact a new tariff, the president must notify Congress of the imposition of (or increase in) the tariff within 48 hours.
      • The Congressional notification must include an explanation of the president’s reasoning for imposing or raising the tariff, and
      • Provide analysis of potential impact on American businesses and consumers.
    • Within 60 days, Congress must pass a joint resolution of approval on the new tariff, otherwise all new tariffs on imports expire after that deadline.
    • Under the bill, Congress has the ability to end tariffs at any time by passing a resolution of disapproval.
    • Anti-dumping and countervailing duties are excluded.

    The full bill text is available HERE.

    For the past three months, President Trump has been sowing economic chaos across the country with unpredictable and ever-changing tariff announcements. His back-and-forth announcements and actions, which have whipsawed American businesses and consumers, as well as close neighbors and allies, include:

    • On January 31 –  citing punishment for failing to crack down on fentanyl trafficking — the Trump administration announced plans to impose a 25% tax on many goods imported into the U.S. from Canada and Mexico and a 10% tax on goods imported from China, then abruptly postponed those tariffs.
    • In February, he doubled down, announcing an additional 25% tax on all steel and aluminum imports.
    • At 12:01 a.m. ET on March 4, President Trump’s long-promised 25% tariffs on goods from Mexico and Canada and 10% tariff increase on goods from China took effect, causing stock prices in the United States to plummet.
    • Then, on March 5, he announced that automobiles from Canada and Mexico would be exempt from his tariffs for one month.
    • The morning of March 6, he announced that he would suspend the tariffs for some products from Mexico. Then, later that same afternoon, he announced he was suspending most new tariffs on products from both Mexico and Canada until April 2.
    • On March 11, Trump threatened to double tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum – increasing them to 50% –  before reversing himself later the same day.
    • On March 13, he threatened 200% tariffs on alcoholic products from the European Union, including all wine and Champagne.
    • On March 27, he announced plans to impose a 25% tax on all imported sedans, SUVs, crossovers, minivans, cargo vans, and light trucks, as well as some auto parts, beginning on April 2.
    • On March 29, President Trump said, “I couldn’t care less,” if automakers raise the price of cars in response to his tariffs.
    • On April 2, he announced a “National Economic Emergency,” and signed an executive order declaring a 10% minimum baseline tariff on all countries as well as additional tariffs on nearly 60 countries.
    • On April 7, he threatened to impose an additional 50% tariff on China.

    Video of Sen. Cantwell’s Q&A with Greer today is available HERE; audio is HERE; and a transcript is HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Read More (Steube and Hill Introduce Catch-Up Act)

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Greg Steube (FL-17)

    April 08, 2025 | Press ReleasesWASHINGTON — U.S. Representatives Greg Steube (R-Fla.) and French Hill (R-Ark.) today introduced the Catch-Up Act to expand eligibility for individuals to make catch-up contributions to the Health Savings Accounts of their spouse.
    Under current law, Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are limited to the individual, their spouse, and their immediate family. While individuals are permitted to make catch-up contributions to their own respective HSA, married individuals younger than 55 years old are barred from making catch-up contributions to the HSA of their spouse. As a result, millions of Americans are denied the full benefits of investing in an HSA.
    The Catch-Up Act will relax this rule to permit families to invest more of their savings into HSAs through catch-up contributions. By allowing all married individuals to make catch-up contributions to their spouse’s HSA, families will have more financial security and freedom to respond to medical costs.
    “Health Savings Accounts have expanded access for millions of Americans to the quality healthcare their families deserve. However, existing laws have hamstrung the ability of families to respond to healthcare emergencies with pointless regulations blocking individuals from utilizing their HSA to cover a loved one’s medical expenses. It only makes sense for us to build upon the success of HSAs with a focus on family economics and freedom,” said Rep. Steube. “My bill with Congressman Hill will allow Americans to make catch-up contributions to their spouse’s HSA, ensuring financial security and better healthcare outcomes by expanding freedom.”
    “Health savings accounts are a smart way for families to plan for medical expenses, but the current rules do not reflect how real families make decisions and manage daily life. Right now, spouses can use their HSA to pay for each other’s medical care, but they cannot make catch-up contributions to each other’s accounts. It is a ridiculous rule that needs to be changed,” said Rep. Hill. “We need to give Americans the flexibility to plan, save, and make health care decisions that work for their families. That is why I am glad to partner with Representative Steube on this commonsense fix that will make it easier for families to support each other and take control of both their health and their finances.”
    Read the bill text here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 9, 2025
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