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Category: Education

  • MIL-OSI USA: Schakowsky, Markey, Ruiz, Jayapal Introduce Dr. Paul Farmer Memorial Resolution Outlining 21st Century Global Health Strategy 

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

    WASHINGTON — Today, Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), U.S. Senator Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz (CA-25), and Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) introduced the Dr. Paul Farmer Memorial Resolution, to honor Dr. Farmer’s staggering life and legacy and lay out his extraordinary vision for realizing global health equity. This resolution lays out a 21st century global health strategy that proposes spending $125 billion annually on global health aid, reforming aid to focus on building national health systems, and putting an end to the exploitation of impoverished countries to increase their domestic tax base and health spending. This resolution seeks to save over 100 million lives per decade by increasing the flow of money in the global economy. 

    “Dr. Paul Farmer is responsible for transforming the lives of millions and millions of poor and marginalized people around the world, bringing them health care, dignity, and justice. A true visionary, Paul insisted that all people have a right to excellent health care, and he developed the systems to deliver it in places people had written off. Gleaming world class hospitals and locally trained doctors, nurses, and community workers now exist in places like Haiti and Rwanda. Paul was not only a world-renowned leader in global health, but also a precious friend and a tireless organizer, inspiring thousands of people to actively participate in his work. All of us owe him a debt that can only be paid by carrying on his mission and legacy,” said Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky. “That is why I am introducing the Dr. Paul Farmer Memorial Resolution alongside my colleagues Senator Markey and Representatives Ruiz and Jayapal. This resolution lays out a 21st Century Global Health Strategy that enshrines Paul’s vision to achieve global universal health care and end unnecessary and preventable deaths. We are the richest country in the world at the richest time in the world. As the Trump Administration rips away lifesaving aid from millions of people, it is more important than ever for those of us who care about global health and justice to rededicate ourselves to building and fully funding a robust global health strategy. Paul called on us to understand global health inequity as an injustice—a result of centuries of violence and exploitation inflicted on the global poor. We can make the choice to end global health inequity, and with Paul’s vision guiding us, we will.” 

    “Dr. Paul Farmer was a health care visionary and revolutionary who understood compassion and care went hand in hand. At a time when global health and well-being are strained, I am proud to introduce this resolution honoring Dr. Farmer and the transformational work he did to deliver health care to people and communities around the world. Health is the first wealth, and we must do everything in our power to ensure that people around the world are healthy, safe, and have access to the resources they need to live and thrive,” said Senator Edward Markey.

    “Dr. Paul Farmer was more than a global health leader, he was my mentor, professor, and dear friend,” said Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz. “From my early years at Harvard Medical School to our work together in Boston, Chiapas, Guatemala, and post-earthquake Haiti, he showed me what it means to fight for underserved communities with unwavering dedication. I am honored to help reintroduce this resolution in his memory, as a testament to his extraordinary impact on humanity.” 

    “Dr. Paul Farmer changed global health for the better with his work in impoverished countries, treating infectious diseases and providing high quality care to those who needed it most. He also fundamentally altered the way we think about international aid, and his organizing and movement building has led to millions of people worldwide living healthier and longer lives. As a lifelong organizer and someone who worked in global health for years before coming to Congress, I know the importance of this work and know how devastating Trump and Republicans’ cuts to USAID and other international aid programs are. This resolution outlines a vision for a world in which we tackle the injustice of global health inequities and treat health care as a true human right. It also recognizes that to achieve these goals, we need to democratize the global financial system, including cancelling predatory debt that has often crushed low- and middle-income countries. I’m proud to co-lead it with Representatives Schakowsky and Ruiz,” said Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal.

    The proposals in the resolution are as follows: 

    • Increase global health aid to $125 billion per year
      • Close the essential universal health care financing gap for low-income countries
      • Allow the U.S. to meet the U.N. aid target of 0.7% GNI for the first time ever
    • Reform global health aid
      • Focus on building national health systems and direct funding to local partners, not the development industry
      • Develop new medical technologies for diseases of poverty and ensure their availability as global public goods
    • Make the global economy more fair, just, and democratic
      • Democratizing the IMF, World Bank, and World Trade Organization, so that poor countries have greater say over decisions that affect their economies and their ability to finance health systems
      • Global debt cancelation for all developing countries that need it
      • Ending harmful licit and illicit financial flows from poor countries—ending global tax havens and illegal practices like trade misinvoicing
      • Supporting global labor rights, such as a global minimum wage

    “In this moment of crisis, we need Paul’s vision for global health justice more than ever. Thankfully, that vision is captured in this resolution. It provides us with a much-needed roadmap for global cooperation based on solidarity and justice by getting to the root causes of unnecessary suffering and death, or what Paul called ‘structural violence’. This includes greatly improving development assistance for health, but also going well beyond aid to address ongoing extractive colonial arrangements, which preclude local investments in health systems,” said Sheila Davis, CEO of Partners in Health.

    As an infectious disease physician, Dr. Farmer earned accolades for treating patients in impoverished countries with high quality care, including those suffering from HIV and cancer. As a medical anthropologist, he was known for popularizing and deepening understandings of “structural violence,” the idea that social systems are designed to impoverish, sicken, and sideline select groups. As chief strategist of Partners in Health, he garnered plaudits for pioneering community-based treatment strategies, building teaching hospitals, and more. Dr. Farmer called on us to understand global health inequity as an injustice—an effect of centuries of violence and exploitation inflicted on the global poor. This resolution embodies that and will serve as a North Star that will guide the movement for global health equity for years to come. 

    In addition to Reps. Schakowsky, Ruiz, and Jayapal, this resolution is cosponsored in the House of Representatives by Reps. Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Betty McCollum (MN-04), Jim McGovern (MA-02), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), Juan Vargas (CA-52). 

    In addition to Sen. Markey, this resolution is cosponsored in the Senate by Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA).

    Issues: Foreign Affairs & National Security, Health Care

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: PHILADELPHIA – Governor Shapiro to Highlight Impact of His Administration’s Violence Intervention and Prevention Program, Work to Make Pennsylvania Communities Safer

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    August 01, 2025 – Philadelphia, PA

    ADVISORY – PHILADELPHIA – Governor Shapiro to Highlight Impact of His Administration’s Violence Intervention and Prevention Program, Work to Make Pennsylvania Communities Safer

    Governor Josh Shapiro will join Representative Amen Brown and local community leaders to visit Philadelphia’s Community Education Center where he will meet with young people and teachers participating in Beyond the Bars, a student-driven and community-based initiative that uses music education to interrupt cycles of violence. Thanks to the Governor’s work to increase funding for the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD)’s Violence Intervention and Prevention (VIP) program, Beyond the Bars has been able to expand its reach and positively impact more young Pennsylvanians.

    Grants through the VIP program contributed to Philadelphia’s significant reductions in gun violence last year, among the largest decreases https://www.americanprogress.org/article/early-2024-data-show-promising-signs-of-another-historic-decline-in-gun-violence/in major U.S. cities in 2024.

    WHO:
    Governor Josh Shapiro
    Representative Amen Brown, 10th Legislative District
    Matt Kerr, Executive Director, Beyond the Bars
    Isaiah Robinson, Student Teacher Lead & Lead Facilitator, Beyond the Bars

    WHEN:
    Friday, August 1, 2025 at 11:00 AM

    WHERE:
    Community Education Center
    3500 Lancaster Ave,
    Philadelphia, PA 19104

    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 –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Frozen in transit: Russian state actor Secret Blizzard’s AiTM campaign against diplomats

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: Frozen in transit: Russian state actor Secret Blizzard’s AiTM campaign against diplomats

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    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition, and the Reesetablishment of the Presidential Fitness Test

    Source: US Whitehouse

    By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, and to promote the economic, academic, and social benefits of youth sports, fitness, and nutrition, it is hereby ordered:
    Section 1.  Revocation.  Executive Order 13824 of February 26, 2018 (President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition), is hereby revoked.
    Sec. 2.  Amendment.  Executive Order 13265 of June 6, 2002 (President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports), is hereby amended as follows:
    (a) The title is revised to read as follows:  “President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition, and the Reestablishment of the Presidential Fitness Test”.
    (b) The preamble is revised to read as follows:  “By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, and to establish the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition, and to reestablish the Presidential Fitness Test, it is hereby ordered:”.
    (c) Sections 1 through 5 are revised to read as follows:  
    “Section 1.  Purpose.  As the United States prepares to celebrate its semiquincentennial anniversary in 2026, we must address the threat to the vitality and longevity of our country that is posed by America’s declining health and physical fitness.  For far too long, the physical and mental health of the American people has been neglected.  Rates of obesity, chronic disease, inactivity, and poor nutrition are at crisis levels, particularly among our children.  These trends weaken our economy, military readiness, academic performance, and national morale.  President Eisenhower recognized this issue when he created the President’s Council on Youth Fitness in response to reports on the poor state of youth fitness in America.  As President-elect, John F. Kennedy famously published an essay titled “The Soft American,” which outlined the imperative for improved health in order to maintain a strong and vital America.  During my first term, I renamed the council the “President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition” and directed the development of a National Youth Sports Strategy, among other activities.     
    My Administration has taken decisive action to reverse this health crisis.  In the first month of my second term, I created the President’s Make America Healthy Again Commission to restore the urgency of improving the health of Americans.  Now, we build further.  To advance this commitment, I hereby reestablish the Presidential Fitness Test, which shall be administered by the Secretary of Health and Human Services with the support of the Secretary of Education.
    With this order, I revitalize the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition as a cornerstone of our national health renewal.  In 2026, we will celebrate the 250th anniversary of our great Nation, honor the 70th anniversary of the original President’s Council on Youth Fitness, and showcase America’s continued global dominance in sports.  Over the next 3 years, America will host the Ryder Cup, the President’s Cup, the FIFA World Cup, and the Olympic Games — the world’s premiere sporting competitions.  These events will provide inspiration for all generations of Americans.
    Sec. 2.  Policy.  It is the policy of my Administration to:
    (a) prioritize and expand children’s participation in youth sports and active play;
    (b) promote the physical, mental, and civic benefits of daily movement, exercise, and good nutrition; and     
    (c)  engage every sector — public and private, civilian and military — in creating a national culture of strength, vitality, and excellence.
    Sec. 3.  President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition. (a)  There is hereby established the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition (Council).
    (b)  The Council shall consist of up to 30 members appointed by the President.  Members shall serve for a term of 2 years, shall be eligible for reappointment, and may continue to serve after the expiration of their terms until the appointment of a successor.  The President may designate one or more of the members as Chair or Vice Chair.
    (c)  The President shall designate an Executive Director of the Council who shall manage day-to-day operations; serve as a liaison to the President on matters and activities pertaining to the Council; and oversee engagement with executive departments and agencies, athletic institutions, and community partners.
    Sec. 4.  Functions of the Council.  (a)  The Council shall advise the President concerning progress made in carrying out the provisions of this order and shall recommend to the President actions to accelerate such progress.
    (b)  In advising the President pursuant to subsection (a) of this section, the Council shall recommend:
    (i) strategies for reestablishing the Presidential Fitness Test, with any appropriate improvements, as the main assessment tool for a Presidential Fitness Award;
    (ii) strategies for the development and promotion of Presidential challenges and school-based programs that reward excellence in physical education;
    (iii) actions to expand opportunities at the global, national, State, and local levels for participation in sports and engagement in physical fitness;
    (iv) bold and innovative fitness goals for American youth with the aim of fostering a new generation of healthy, active citizens;
    (v) campaigns and events that elevate American sports, military readiness, and health traditions;
    (vi) opportunities at the global, national, State, and local levels that expand participation in sports and emphasize the importance of an active lifestyle and good nutrition, which should include partnerships with professional athletes, sports organizations, player’s associations, influential figures, nonprofit organizations, and community groups to inspire all Americans, among other initiatives; and
    (vii) strategies to address the growing national security threat posed by the increasing rates of childhood obesity, chronic diseases, and sedentary lifestyles, which threaten the future readiness of the United States workforce and military.      
    Sec. 5. Administration.  (a)  Each executive department and agency shall, to the extent permitted by law and subject to the availability of funds, furnish such information and assistance to the Council as it may request.
    (b) Members of the Council shall serve without compensation but may receive travel reimbursement, including per diem in lieu of subsistence, as allowed under applicable law (5 U.S.C. 5701-5707), consistent with the availability of funds.
    (c) The Department of Health and Human Services shall provide such funding and administrative and technical support as the Council may require, to the extent permitted by law and as authorized by existing appropriations.
    (d) The Council may, with the approval of the President, establish subcommittees as appropriate to aid in its work.
    (e) The seal prescribed by Executive Order 10830 of July 24, 1959 (Establishing a Seal for the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports), as amended, shall be modified to reflect the name of the Council as established by this order.
    (f) Insofar as the Federal Advisory Committee Act, as amended (5 U.S.C. 1001 et seq.) (the “Act”), may apply to the administration of any portion of this order, any functions of the President under the Act, except that of reporting to the Congress, shall be performed by the Secretary of Health and Human Services in accordance with the guidelines and procedures issued by the Administrator of General Services.
    (g) In accordance with the Act, the Council shall terminate 2 years from the date of this order, unless extended by the President.
    (h) Executive Order 12345 of February 2, 1982 (Physical Fitness and Sports), as amended, is revoked.”.
    (d) A new section 6 is added to read as follows:
    “Sec. 6.  General Provisions.  (a)  Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:
    (i)   the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or
    (ii)  the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.
    (b)  This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.
    (c)  This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.”.
    Sec. 3.  General Provisions.  (a)  Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:
    (i)   the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or
    (ii)  the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.
    (b)  This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.
    (c)  This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.
    (d)  The costs for publication of this order shall be borne by the Department of Education.
     
     
     
                                   DONALD J. TRUMP
     
     
     
    THE WHITE HOUSE,
        July 31, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: EIT helps fulfil long-held goal for accounting student | EIT Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti

    Source: Eastern Institute of Technology

    11 minutes ago

    After working in South Africa for nearly 18 years and putting her studies on hold when her daughter became seriously ill, Chantel Delport is now halfway through a Bachelor of Accounting at EIT.

    The 36-year-old mother of three moved to New Zealand with her husband Quentin and their children in 2019, following a difficult period that saw her prioritise family over formal study.

    “I did begin my studies back home in South Africa, but due to a serious family health scare involving my daughter, I wasn’t able to sit my exams,” Chantel says.

    “At that time, my children became my top priority, and I put my studies on hold.”

    While settling into a new life in Hawke’s Bay, Chantel continued with some online learning and worked in accounts and admin. She had already been a bookkeeper since 2007, something she says she loved from the beginning, but she was ready to take her skills further.

    “Over the years I completed various online courses, but none were NZQA-approved. I really wanted to take my skills to the next level.”

    Chantel says she chose EIT because she wanted to study in a real classroom environment where she could engage directly with lecturers. Although she was nervous at first about returning to study, she quickly found she was not alone.

    “I thought I’d be the oldest student on campus, but I was pleasantly surprised to find many people my age also pursuing education and self-improvement.”

    She says smaller class sizes at EIT have allowed her to ask more questions and form meaningful connections with both classmates and lecturers.

    “My lecturers have been incredibly understanding and supportive, especially as I juggle life as a mum of three, one of whom has ongoing health challenges.”

    Chantel still works part-time in accounts and admin while studying. She says finding balance has not always been easy, but it has been worth it.

    “There have been plenty of exhausting days where I questioned whether I could keep going, but the personal satisfaction and sense of achievement have kept me moving forward.”

    Her long-term goal is to become a Chartered Accountant and potentially explore forensic accounting in future.

    To others considering a return to study later in life, she has a simple message: “Don’t let age stop you.”

    “It’s never too late to pursue the education you’ve always dreamed of or to aim for the career and pay you deserve. You are absolutely worth it.”

    Gareth Allison, EIT’s Head of the School of Business, said: “Chantel’s journey is a powerful reminder that perseverance can overcome even the toughest challenges”.

    “We are proud to support students like her who balance family, work, and study. At EIT, we believe education is a lifelong pursuit, and Chantel’s success is an inspiration to all who aspire to reach their goals.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Lecturers’ encouragement leads oncology social worker back to study master’s at EIT | EIT Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti

    Source: Eastern Institute of Technology

    11 minutes ago

    After years of gentle encouragement from EIT lecturers, Mabel Aiolupotea returned to study and completed her Master of Professional Practice while working full-time

    Mabel, a Registered Social Worker in the Cancer Support Team within Oncology Services at Te Matau a Māui Hawke’s Bay, recently completed the postgraduate qualification at EIT.

    Her journey with EIT began more than a decade ago, when she enrolled in the Bachelor of Social Work.

    “It wasn’t something that I planned or knew I would become. I didn’t quite finish my last year of high school, and then I got married and had two kids before I started studying.”

    She completed her degree by taking one paper at a time while working full-time in social services.

    She graduated in 2013 and remained connected to the institute.

    “Every time I bumped into one of my old lecturers, they would say, ‘Are you thinking about coming back? We’ve got this programme running.’ They saw potential in me, and that encouragement stayed with me.”

    Eventually, Mabel decided to apply.

    “I didn’t know how I was going to pay for it. But I just knew it was what I was supposed to do. So, I applied and trusted the rest would follow.”

    She later received education funding through the Radiotherapy and Oncology Trust in Palmerston North. That support enabled her to complete her studies one paper at a time while continuing full-time work.

    Mabel has spent nearly a decade at Hawke’s Bay Hospital and the past five years in Oncology Psychosocial Services. Her role spans the full cancer journey, from initial testing and diagnosis through to treatment, end-of-life care, and bereavement support.

    “It’s a privilege to walk alongside people during some of their most vulnerable moments, especially when facing uncertainty.  You do not take that lightly.”

    Returning to study gave her space to reflect on her practice and grow her confidence, both professionally and personally.

    As part of her master’s programme, Mabel completed a Postgraduate Certificate in Professional Supervision and a research component that gave her insight into the different cultural and personal spaces she moves through every day.

    “You can go through the motions, or you can really engage in a way that transforms you. Supervision became a place for deeper learning, not just a mandatory requirement,” she says.

    She credits the support of her family and her village, including EIT staff for helping her succeed while balancing home, work, study, and church life. When classes were moved to Hastings following Cyclone Gabrielle, she says EIT handled the disruption with care and minimal interruption.

    Mabel graduated in April this year and received an award at EIT’s Pacific Achievement Ceremony, an honour she says was both humbling and affirming.

    Earlier this year, she also became a grandmother for the first time. With a new mokopuna in the family, she is taking a pause from study to enjoy this season, though she hasn’t ruled out the idea of pursuing a doctorate in the future.

    “There is always more to learn. But for now, I am just really grateful. I am proud of who I have become through this journey and how it has helped me show up at work, at home, and in my community.”

    Mabel says she would “absolutely” recommend study at EIT.

    “If you want to become better at being you, then it’s the right place to be. You get out what you put in and with God all things are possible.”

    Mandy Pentecost, EIT School of Education and Social Sciences Programme Coordinator, said: “I speak for all those who have taught Mabel through her studies with EIT, to congratulate her on completing her Masters degree”.

    “Mabel has  been a committed student, humble and open to embracing new ideas and ways of practice. Through her work she has an impact on so many lives, and we wish her well as she continues her journey of learning and service.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Nearly $71 Million for Maine Hospitals and Health Centers Advanced by Senator Collins in Funding Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that she advanced $70,872,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending for Maine hospitals and health centers in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations bill. The bill, which was officially approved by the Senate Appropriations Committee today, now awaits consideration by the full Senate and House.

    “Mainers in every part of our state should be able to receive the vital medical services they need,” said Senator Collins. “This funding would support much-needed equipment and facility upgrades at hospitals and health centers, helping to expand and improve the quality of an array of health care services throughout the state. As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to advocate for this funding as the appropriations process moves forward.”

    This funding advanced through the Committee’s markup of the FY 2026 Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations bill—an important step that now allows the bill to be considered by the full Senate.

    Funding advanced by Senator Collins is as follows: 

    Maternal Delivery and New Infant Project

    Recipient: Northern Light Eastern Maine Health

    Project Location: Bangor, Dover-Foxcroft, Ellsworth, Portland, Presque Isle

    Amount Requested: $1,599,000

    Project Purpose: To replace and modernize equipment across hospitals with labor and delivery units.

    St. Joseph Hospital Emergency Department Expansion

    Recipient: St. Joseph Hospital

    Project Location: Bangor, ME

    Amount Requested: $6,800,000

    Project Purpose: To renovate, expand, and equip the Emergency Department.

    Bingham Area Health Center Dental Services Expansion

    Recipient: HealthReach Community Health Centers

    Project Location: Bingham, ME

    Amount Requested: $650,000

    Project Purpose: To expand the dental services wing of Bingham Area Health Center.

    Bridgton Hospital Emergency Department Expansion

    Recipient: Bridgton Hospital

    Project Location: Bridgton, ME

    Amount Requested: $5,000,000

    Project Purpose: To renovate, expand, and equip the Emergency Department.

    Bucksport Regional Health Center Dental Expansion 

    Recipient: Bucksport Regional Health Center

    Project Location: Bucksport, ME

    Amount Requested: $1,980,000

    Project Purpose: For facilities and equipment to expand dental services.

    Rural Health Clinic Expansion

    Recipient: Calais Community Hospital

    Project Location: Calais, ME

    Amount Requested: $4,990,000

    Project Purpose: To expand and renovate the Rural Health Clinic.

    Pines Health Services Relocation

    Recipient: Pines Health Services

    Project Location: Caribou, ME

    Amount Requested: $8,900,000

    Project Purpose: To support the construction of a new health center for Pines Health Services.

    Houlton Regional Hospital Improvements

    Recipient: Houlton Regional Hospital

    Project Location: Houlton, ME

    Amount Requested: $5,458,000

    Project Purpose: To support facility and safety improvements.

    MaineGeneral Health Electronic Medical Records Infrastructure Improvement

    Recipient: MaineGeneral Health

    Project Location: Kennebec County, ME

    Amount Requested: $5,000,000

    Project Purpose: For facilities and equipment to support electronic medical records software upgrades.

    Spurwink Lewiston Behavioral Health Center

    Recipient: Spurwink Services

    Project Location: Lewiston, ME

    Amount Requested: $5,666,000

    Project Purpose: To renovate an existing structure for behavioral health services.

    St. Mary’s Behavioral Health Emergency Department Expansion

    Recipient: St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center

    Project Location: Lewiston, ME

    Amount Requested: $2,619,000

    Project Purpose: To renovate, expand, and equip the Behavioral Health Emergency Department.

    Stephens Memorial Hospital Renovations 

    Recipient: Western Maine Health (MaineHealth)

    Project Location: Norway, ME

    Amount Requested: $10,810,000

    Project Purpose: To construct and equip a new Emergency Department and oncology infusion center.

    Rumford Hospital Emergency Department Expansion

    Recipient: Rumford Hospital

    Project Location: Rumford, ME

    Amount Requested: $6,400,000

    Project Purpose: To renovate, expand, and equip the Emergency Department.

    York Hospital Electronic Medical Records Infrastructure Improvement

    Recipient: York Hospital

    Project Location: York, ME

    Amount Requested: $5,000,000

    Project Purpose: For facilities and equipment to support electronic medical records software upgrades.

    In 2021, Congress reinstituted Congressionally Directed Spending. Following this decision, Senator Collins has secured more than $1 billion for hundreds of Maine projects for FY 2022, FY 2023, and FY 2024. As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, Senator Collins is committed to championing targeted investments that will benefit Maine communities.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bill to Fund Key Defense Programs in Maine Clears Appropriations Committee

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Appropriations Committee, announced that she secured significant funding and provisions for Maine in the Fiscal Year 2026 Defense Appropriations Act. The bill, which was officially approved by the Senate Appropriations Committee today, now awaits consideration by the full Senate and House.

    The measure, which was advanced by a vote of 26-3, provides $851.9 billion in discretionary funding.

    “This legislation supports the brave men and women of our armed forces as well as the hardworking Mainers at BIW, PNSY, Pratt & Whitney, and elsewhere across the state, who make invaluable contributions to our nation’s defense,” said Senator Collins. “As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to advance this funding as the appropriations process moves forward.”

    Bill Highlights: 

    Pay increase: Funds a 3.8 percent pay raise for servicemembers and a 10 percent pay raise for junior enlisted personnel.

    Bath Iron Works (BIW) Workforce:

    • $1.3 billion in advance procurement for a third FY 2027 DDG-51.
    • $450 million for large surface combatant shipyard infrastructure investments.
    • $181.5 million for cost-to-complete costs of prior year DDG-51s.

    Portsmouth Naval Shipyard (PNSY) Workforce: Maintains a requirement that the Navy induct no fewer than 100 apprentices at PNSY and each of the other shipyards.

    • $19 billion to fund all executable ship depot maintenance operations at public and private shipyards, including $1.4 billion at PNSY.
    • $1.2 billion for the Navy’s Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program, including $24.1 million for infrastructure investments at PNSY.
    • $153.4 million for Virginia-class submarine spares and repair parts to assist in efficient submarine maintenance at PNSY.

    Pratt & Whitney Workforce:

    • $280 million split equally between the Navy and the Air Force for F-135 spare parts.
    • $282.5 million for F-135 Engine Core Upgrade, which will upgrade the current F-35 engine for all three F-35 variants.
    • Bill language prohibiting the integration of any alternative engine into the F-35.

    University of Maine (UMaine) Defense Research: $27.5 million for Department of Defense research that could benefit research and development efforts at UMaine, including $10 million to support the continued construction of UMaine’s flagship Additive and Hybrid Manufacturing pilot facility.

    Marine Corps Investments: $44 million to support ongoing Marine Corps investments in amphibious, autonomous ground vehicle systems that enhance mobility, survivability, and operational reach in contested environments. One such platform is the Ripsaw Robotic Combat Vehicle, developed by Howe & Howe Technologies—a defense manufacturer based in Waterboro, Maine. Senator Collins has championed this cutting-edge technology as a model for the kind of innovation and industrial capability needed to strengthen the U.S. defense industrial base.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bill to Fund Key Health, Workforce, and Education Programs in Maine Clears Appropriations Committee

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Appropriations Committee, announced that she secured significant funding and provisions for Maine in the Fiscal Year 2026 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. The bill, which was officially approved by the Senate Appropriations Committee today, now awaits consideration by the full Senate and House.

    The measure, which was advanced by a vote of 26-3, provides $197 in discretionary funding.

    “To address Maine’s shortage of health care professionals, we must invest in workforce development programs, provide support for students in lower-income communities seeking higher education, and increase access to affordable child care,” said Senator Collins. “This bill would provide support in each of these areas, as well as make targeted investments into life-saving research on Alzheimer’s, cancer, diabetes, and tick-borne diseases. As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to advocate for this funding as the appropriations process moves forward.”

    Bill Highlights:

    Local Projects: $112.4 million for Congressionally Directed Spending projects in Maine.

    Department of Health and Human Services (HHS):

    National Institutes of Health (NIH): $48.7 billion for NIH, an increase of $400 million, including:

    • $100 million increase for Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias research.
    • $150 million increase for the National Cancer Institute, including $28 million for the Childhood Cancer STAR Act.
    • $50 million increase for women’s health research.
    • $25 million increase for ALS research.
    • $19 million increase for rare disease research.
    • $10 million increase for diabetes research.
    • $6 million increase for mental health research.

    Alzheimer’s: In addition to NIH funding, the bill provides $41.5 million for CDC Alzheimer’s disease activities, as well as:

    • Language urging the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to reconsider Medicare’s National Coverage Determination policy for FDA-approved Alzheimer’s disease therapies.
    • $31.5 million for the Administration for Community Living’s (ACL) Alzheimer’s Disease Program, including $2 million for the National Alzheimer’s Call Center, which provides 24/7/365 telephone support, crisis counseling, care consultation, and referral services for persons with Alzheimer’s disease, their family members, and informal caregivers.

    NIH Indirect Costs: Maintains language prohibiting changes to indirect cost rates. In February, Senator Collins announced her opposition to the proposed 15 percent cap on indirect costs, which are usually negotiated between NIH and the grant recipient. In April, Senator Collins chaired the first full Committee hearing with a focus on the importance of biomedical research. At Senator Collins’ invitation, Dr. Hermann Haller, President of the Mount Desert Island Biological Laboratory, provided testimony on how the proposed NIH cap would affect biomedical research occurring in Maine and at institutions across the country. At a June hearing to review the FY 2026 budget request for NIH, Senator Collins questioned NIH Director Jayanta Bhattacharya on the proposed cap on indirect costs.

    Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: $9 million for CDC Muscular Dystrophy activities.

    Lyme and Tick-Borne Disease: $27 million for CDC Lyme activities and $64.6 million for vector-borne diseases to support continued implementation of Senator Collins’ Kay Hagan Tick Act. The bill also includes $110 million for NIH Lyme and tick-borne disease research.

    Substance Use Disorders: $1.6 billion for the State Opioid Response Grants; $1.9 billion for the Substance Use Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery Services Block Grant; and $145 million for the Rural Communities Opioid Response program to support efforts to combat the opioid epidemic and other substance use disorders. In 2024, there were an estimated 80,391 drug overdose deaths.

    Health Workforce Programs: $303.5 million for Title VIII Nursing Workforce programs and $48.2 million for the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Geriatric workforce education programs, which include the Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement Program and Geriatric Academic Career Awards.

    Building Communities of Recovery: $17 million for Building Communities of Recovery grants through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

    SIREN Rural EMS: $13.5 million for SAMHSA’s Rural Emergency Medical Services Training and equipment program.

    Lifespan Respite Care: $11 million for ACL’s Lifespan Respite Care Program.

    Low Income Home Energy Assistance (LIHEAP): $4 billion for LIHEAP, an increase of $20 million. At a hearing earlier this year on the FY 2026 budget request for HHS, Senator Collins questioned Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. on the proposed elimination of LIHEAP. At the urging of Senator Collins, HHS released more than $400 million in FY 2025 funding for LIHEAP in May. Maine has received $41.6 million in FY 2025 LIHEAP funding.

    CDC Dog Importation Rule: Includes report language on CDC’s flawed dog importation rule and calls for CDC to maintain the current pause on implementation of the rule and to restart the rule process. Following an effort led by Senator Collins last year, the CDC announced that it will be making critical revisions to its dog importation rule and delay implementation of a problematic provision.

    Early Education: $8.8 billion for the Child Care and Development Block Grant and nearly $12.4 billion for Head Start.

    Department of Labor (DOL):

    Job Corps: $1.8 billion for Job Corps. Senator Collins has strongly opposed the Administration’s proposed elimination of Job Corps. At a hearing to review the Fiscal Year 2026 budget request for the DOL in May, Senator Collins spoke about Adais Viruet-Torres, a graduate of Loring Job Corps Center and Husson University who overcame homelessness and now works as a nurse practitioner. In April, Senator Collins sent a letter to Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer urging DOL to lift the halt on enrollment at Loring Job Corps Center and Penobscot Job Corps Center. Senators Collins and Jack Reed (D-RI) sent a letter Secretary Chavez-DeRemer requesting DOL to provide information on Job Corps contracts, background check processing, and evaluation plan.

    Apprenticeships: $285 million for the Apprenticeship Grant Program.

    H-2B Visas: Continued inclusion of bill language to ensure the efficacy of the H-2B program. The bill also includes $60.5 million for Foreign Labor Certification program administration, in part to help with H-2B processing, as well as report language directing the Department of Labor (DOL) to take steps to ensure prompt processing of H-2B visa applications.

    DOL Workforce Opportunity for Rural Communities Initiative: $6.5 million for workers in areas served by the Northern Border Regional Commission.

    Department of Education:

    TRIO: $1.2 billion to support low-income individuals and first-generation college students. At a hearing earlier this year on the FY 2026 budget request for the U.S. Department of Education, Senator Collins questioned Secretary of Education Linda McMahon on the proposed elimination of TRIO programs.

    Title I Grants to LEAs: $18.5 billion for Title I Grants to LEAs. Maine is expected to receive approximately $61.7 million in FY 2025 funds through this program.

    IDEA Grants to States: $15.2 billion for IDEA Grants to States. Maine is expected to receive approximately $70.8 million in FY 2025 funds through this program.

    Perkins Career and Technical Education (CTE) State Grants: $1.4 billion for CTE State Grants. Maine is expected to receive approximately $7 million in FY 2025 funds through this program.

    Pell Maximum Award: Maintains the maximum Pell award for a total of $7,395 for the 2026-2027 school year. Maine students are expected to receive approximately $126.6 million in Pell Grants through FY 2025 funds.

    Rural Education Achievement Program (REAP): $225 million to support rural school districts.

    Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools: $36 million for Special Olympics programs.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Baldwin Releases Statement on Bipartisan Bill to Fund Labor, Health, and Education Departments for Fiscal Year 2026

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health, and Human Services, released the following statement after the full committee advanced her Fiscal Year 2026 funding legislation to the Senate floor. In addition to funding critical programs that the Trump Administration has tried to cut or withhold funding from – including Head Start, the National Institutes of Health, and Job Corps – the bipartisan bill takes further steps to mandate the timely delivery of Congressionally approved funding and adequate staffing levels at federal agencies to carry out the mission of these programs.

    “At the end of the day, my North Star is delivering for the people of Wisconsin. While no one got everything they wanted in this bill, I’m proud to say we found common ground and are doing just that to address the challenges facing working families across the country. From investing in cancer and Alzheimer’s research, to protecting the Department of Education and early education funding, to strengthening my 988 Suicide Lifeline, we came together to deliver for our constituents,” said Senator Baldwin. “This bill not only puts Donald Trump’s budget in the trash, it also reins in this President’s efforts to dismantle and withhold funding for critical programs our constituents rely on. This bill takes on the kitchen table issues families face by addressing childcare costs, connecting more Americans with good-paying jobs, and taking on the mental health and opioid epidemics. While it is not perfect, I look forward to getting it over the finish line on behalf of Wisconsinites who want to see a Washington that works for them.”

    As Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Labor, Health, and Human Services, Senator Baldwin writes the bill that funds the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education. A summary of the bill is available below.

    Key Points & Highlights – Department of Health and Human Services

    Department of Health and Human Services (HHS): The bill provides $116.6 billion, an increase of $446 million in discretionary funding for the Department of Health and Human Services over fiscal year 2025.

    The bill rejects the Trump administration’s harmful efforts to defund and dismantle critical work that HHS oversees—maintaining important funding for programs across HHS that touch the lives of nearly every American, while providing targeted increases to important bipartisan priorities. The bill includes new requirements to help ensure adequate staffing and the timely awarding of funding to prevent completely unnecessary delays and disruptions in programs that families and communities across the country count on—from child care and Head Start to substance use and mental health—and that support lifesaving research into cures and treatments for devastating diseases.

    Biomedical Research: The bill provides $48.7 billion in discretionary funding for the National Institutes of Health (NIH)—an increase of $400 million to propel lifesaving and life-changing cures and treatments across NIH’s 27 institutes and centers and the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H).

    The bill rejects the catastrophic 40% cut to NIH proposed by President Trump, and instead of slashing funding for biomedical research, includes a:

    • $150 million increase for cancer research;
    • $100 million increase for Alzheimer’s disease research;
    • $30 million increase for the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases;
    • $30 million increase for the Office of Research on Women’s Health;
    • $25 million increase for ALS research, fully funding the $100 million as authorized by the ACT for ALS Act of 2021;
    • $20 million increase for the IMPROVE Initiative for research on maternal mortality;
    • $12 million increase for BRAIN Initiative research;
    • $10 million increase for diabetes research;
    • $10 million increase for rare disease research;
    • $9 million increase for the Undiagnosed Diseases Network; and a
    • $5 million to implement the National Parkinson’s Project.

    The bill also rejects the Trump administration’s proposal—and illegal efforts—to cap indirect cost rates at 15%, which would devastate biomedical research, and continues a longstanding provision that prohibits NIH from implementing such a cap. The bill also rejects the Trump administration’s misguided elimination of programs across NIH by maintaining funding for HIV vaccine research, training programs that support the next generation of researchers, and the Safe to Sleep campaign, among others.

    The bill also includes, as part of a manager’s amendment, a new provision that would prevent implementation of the Office of Management and Budget’s misguided policy for NIH to fund significantly more of its multi-year research grants in one lump sum. This poorly thought-out new policy would significantly cut the number of research grants NIH awards this year and next year—according to NIH’s own estimate, by 40% in fiscal year 2025, reducing the percentage of cancer research grants it will award from 13% to 7%, and Alzheimer’s disease grants from 18% to 6%. OMB’s attempt this week to explicitly and illegally withhold billions in funding and halt all remaining NIH research grants through the rest of the year makes its intentions crystal clear. More needs to be done to protect NIH research programs, but the provision included in this bill is an important step in preventing the Trump administration from decimating the biomedical research enterprise Congress has built in a bipartisan manner over decades, which has long been the envy of the world and drives medical innovation that has saved millions of lives.

    The bill also includes a new authority for NIH to address loopholes in sexual harassment reporting and strengthen accountability by requiring institutions to complete investigations into concerns about harassment, bullying, retaliation, or hostile working conditions, even if the alleged perpetrator leaves their current position and is no longer employed by the institution. It provides the NIH Director the authority to decline the transfer of an award to a different institution, helping to close the “pass-the-harasser” loophole. It also provides the NIH Director the authority to share investigation reports on an as-needed basis with any institution that receives NIH funding.

    Child Care and Early Learning Programs: The bill includes $8.8 billion for the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG)—an $85 million increase over fiscal year 2025; and $12.4 billion for Head Start, an $85 million increase. Much more needs to be done to address our broken child care system and ensure every working family can find and afford child care, which is critical for businesses and our economy too—but sustained annual increases in these programs are critical in the meantime. The bill also sustains funding for Preschool Development Grants, which President Trump proposed eliminating in his budget request.

    Addressing Substance Use Disorders and Mental Health: The bill sustains funding to address the rising toll of opioid overdoses fueled by fentanyl, maintain access to substance use disorder prevention and treatment, and improve access to mental health services.

    The bill rejects President Trump’s proposed cuts to SAMHSA programs and maintains SAMHSA as its own, independent agency to ensure substance use and mental health remain a priority at HHS. The bill includes targeted increases to SAMHSA programs, including $2.0 billion, a $20 million increase over fiscal year 2025, for the Substance Use Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery Services Block Grant; $1.6 billion for State Opioid Response grants, a $20 million increase; and $145 million for the Rural Communities Opioid Response Program.

    It protects key investments in mental health programs by sustaining funding for the Mental Health Block Grant, Project AWARE, Mental Health Awareness Training, and the National Childhood Traumatic Stress Network. The bill also provides $535 million, a $15 million increase over fiscal year 2025, for the 988 Suicide Prevention Lifeline, to address continued increases in demand as 988 has been stood up over the last several years, and it restores dedicated funding for the LGBTQ+ youth specialized services line that President Trump eliminated this summer.

    Additionally, it includes approximately $180 million in investments within the Department of Education to address the shortage of school-based mental health professionals and services in our nation’s K-12 schools.

    Essential Health Care Programs: The bill protects investments in health care access and affordability and the health care workforce—maintaining investments in core programs, including $1.86 billion for Community Health Centers and $128.6 million for the National Health Service Corps. The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) is fully funded, and the bill affirms support for the mission and scientific integrity of the task force. The bill also includes a $9.3 million increase in rural health programs to boost recruitment of health care providers to practice in rural areas and support rural hospitals.

    Importantly, the bill provides a $5 million increase in funding for the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN) Modernization Initiative to strengthen and reform the nation’s organ donation and transplant system. There are more than 100,000 individuals on the organ transplant waitlist, and this initiative, which began during the Biden administration, will allow the OPTN to better serve patients and families and strengthen accountability.

    Public Health: The bill rejects the approximately $4 billion—or 50%—cut to CDC programs proposed by President Trump’s budget request. CDC helps keep Americans safe and healthy by protecting against diseases and supporting states and local communities as they do the same. It also rejects the Trump administration’s haphazard proposal to dismantle CDC, which risks Americans’ health and safety, and requires HHS to support staffing levels to carry out the CDC’s programs.

    The bill also helps support state and local health departments by sustaining critical programs across the CDC, including funding for chronic diseases, the Office of Smoking and Health, injury prevention programs (including firearm injury and mortality research), global health programs, and immunization and infectious disease prevention programs.

    HIV/AIDS: The bill includes $613 million for the Ending the HIV Epidemic Initiative, which provides high-need jurisdictions with prevention and treatment services for people at high risk for HIV transmission. This includes $220 million within the CDC’s Domestic HIV/AIDS Prevention and Research programs to develop and deploy innovative data management solutions, increase access to PrEP, and better detect and respond to HIV clusters, and $128.9 million for the CDC’s global HIV/AIDS program. The bill also provides full funding for the Ryan White HIV/AIDS program, including dental services and training for health care practitioners, two initiatives that President Trump sought to eliminate in his budget proposal.

    Women’s Health: The bill sustains funding for reproductive health programs, including Title X and the Teen Pregnancy Prevention Program, which President Trump eliminated in his budget proposal. The bill also increases investments in maternal health across CDC and NIH with a $53 million increase for programs that aim to address maternal mental health, prevent pregnancy-related deaths, support best practices to improve maternal health outcomes, and invest in women’s health research. The bill also provides funding for a new initiative to support survivors of sexual assault and creates a new menopause initiative within AHRQ to translate research best practices into clinical practice for women. Importantly, the bill includes increases in funding for the Maternal Mental Health Hotline and maternal health safety initiatives through the Alliance for Innovation on Maternal Health program.

    Pandemic Preparedness and Biodefense: The bill includes $3.6 billion for the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR). It sustains funding for the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA); Project Bioshield; the Strategic National Stockpile (SNS); and Industrial Base Management and Supply Chain (IBMSC) activities to help ensure that critical resources in the public health supply chain—including raw materials, medical countermeasures, and ancillary supplies—are manufactured in the United States. It also includes $4 million to support a new program to improve emergency medical services and trauma care during a public health emergency.

    Administration for Community Living: The bill maintains funding for the Administration for Community Living as its own agency within HHS to help support seniors and Americans with disabilities so they can live and participate fully in their communities. This includes providing $1.1 billion for senior nutrition programs and providing targeted increases for family caregiver programs.

    Home Heating and Cooling Assistance: The bill includes $4.045 billion for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), a $20 million increase over fiscal year 2025, to help low-income households heat and cool their homes.

    Key Points & Highlights – Department of Education

    Department of Education: The bill provides $79.0 billion in discretionary funding for the Department of Education.

    The bill rejects the Trump administration’s call to eliminate the Department of Education and maintains funding across the Department, including funding for K-12 formula and competitive grant programs, CTE and adult education programs, federal student aid, postsecondary competitive grants, and civil rights enforcement to provide the resources needed to help schools improve educational outcomes for students and protect all students from discrimination.

    The bill includes new requirements that the Department of Education maintain the staff necessary to ensure it carries out its statutory responsibilities, including carrying out programs and activities funded in this bill in a timely manner. The bill also includes new requirements for the Department of Education to make formula grants available to states and districts on time. While this should be unnecessary, this step prevents any administration from withholding key funding for students and creating chaos for states and schools, which distracts educators from helping kids thrive.

    Supporting Elementary and Secondary Education Students: The bill strengthens investments in foundational formula grant programs for elementary and secondary education and in public schools, teachers, and students—rejecting the $4.5 billion cut and the proposed consolidations in President Trump’s budget request for a new $2 billion block grant program.

    The bill boosts funding for Title I-A grants by $50 million above the fiscal year 2025 level to $18.457 billion. More than 80% of the nation’s school districts receive these funds, and nearly 25 million students go to schools receiving Title I funding. The bill also provides $15.224 billion, an increase of $50 million over fiscal year 2025, for all three IDEA Special Education State grant programs and retains each as a separate program. IDEA state grant programs support more than seven million students and children with disabilities and their families who receive IDEA services through these programs. The bill also includes new guardrails to prevent the administration from moving these formula grant programs to other federal agencies and disrupting the efficient and effective use of federal funds intended to improve outcomes for students.

    The bill also continues current investments, except for a few targeted reductions, across a range of other important formula and competitive grant programs authorized to improve teaching and learning in elementary and secondary schools, rejecting President Trump’s proposed elimination of $1.5 billion in total funding for nine important programs.

    Career and Technical Education (CTE): The bill provides $1.45 billion for CTE grants and $729 million for adult education grants and appropriates such funding to the Department of Education to carry out these programs, rejecting President Trump’s call to eliminate federal support for adult education. The bill includes new provisions requiring both CTE and adult education formula grants to be awarded in a timely way to prevent any administration from withholding these critical funds.

    Higher Education: The bill provides a total maximum Pell Grant award of $7,395 for the 2026-2027 award year, rejecting President Trump’s proposal to cut the Pell grant by over $1000. This coming school year, Pell Grants are expected to help over 7 million students at all stages of life pursue postsecondary education and further their careers. The bill also rejects President Trump’s proposals to eliminate a range of postsecondary education programs.

    Instead, the bill sustains funding for Federal Work Study and the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant that provide additional need-based aid to students to help them afford postsecondary education. The bill also includes $65 million for the Teacher Quality Partnership program and $15 million for the Hawkins Centers of Excellence to help educator preparation programs address educator shortages. It also continues other investments available to recruit, develop, and retain an effective and diverse teacher and school leader workforce, including $90 million for the Supporting Effective Educator Development program.

    The bill sustains funding for TRIO at $1.191 billion; $388 million for GEAR UP; $75 million for the Child Care Access Means Parents in School Program (CCAMPIS); a $10 million for the Basic Needs Program; and $40 million for the Postsecondary Student Success Grant Program to help students prepare for and succeed in post-secondary education. The bill also sustains funding for Title III and V programs that support HBCUs, MSIs, Tribal colleges, and other institutions. President Trump had proposed to eliminate CCAMPIS, TRIO, GEAR UP, International Education, the Basic Needs Program, and the Postsecondary Student Success Grant, among other programs in his budget request.

    The bill also sustains funding for the administration of student aid programs. This funding supports a wide range of activities, including: implementing the FAFSA; disbursing student aid; ensuring services are available to student loan borrowers; implementing more affordable repayment plans; and fixing longstanding issues in student loan forgiveness programs. Finally, the bill includes important requirements to help Congress conduct oversight over the new higher education provisions contained in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.

    Protecting Students from Discrimination: The bill rejects President Trump’s proposed cut of $49 million, or one-third of the total budget, for the Office for Civil Rights. Instead, the bill maintains the current budget level of $140 million and requires the Department to support the staffing levels necessary for OCR to fulfill its statutory responsibilities.

    Advancing Education Research, Statistics, and Assessments: The bill maintains current funding of $793 million for the Institute of Education Sciences for all programs and activities of IES funded in fiscal year 2024, rejecting the massive reduction of $532 million or 67% proposed in President Trump’s budget request. The Trump administration’s significant workforce reductions and program delays at IES this year have caused it to fail to meet statutory requirements. The bill requires the Department to support staffing levels necessary for IES and the National Center for Education Statistics to fulfill their statutory responsibilities.

    Key Points & Highlights – Department of Labor

    Department of Labor (DOL): The bill includes $13.7 billion in discretionary funding for the Department of Labor. The bill rejects the harmful cuts proposed by the Trump administration, including the administration’s proposal to block grant our nation’s workforce training programs.

    Workforce Development: The bill includes $2.9 billion for Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) formula grants, protecting essential investments made in recent years. It includes a new directive requiring DOL to award such funds in a timely manner. It provides $285 million for Registered Apprenticeships and $105 million for YouthBuild. The bill also rejects President Trump’s call to eliminate Job Corps and instead provides $1.76 billion for Job Corps. Rejecting President Trump’s proposed cuts for many of these programs and continuing funding for these key workforce development programs will help grow the economy, provide workers with the skills they need to secure good-paying jobs of the future, and help American businesses compete globally.

    Worker Protection: The bill rejects drastic reductions proposed in President Trump’s request and sustains key investments in DOL’s worker protection agencies charged with enforcing requirements for employers to pay workers what they earn and provide safe and healthy workplaces. The bill maintains $191 million in funding for the Employee Benefits Security Administration, which is responsible for, among other things, ensuring private sector employment-based group health plans comply with mental health and substance use disorder parity requirements. The bill also maintains $260 million for Wage and Hour Division to support the Division’s work to recover wages workers are owed and to combat exploitative child labor. Last year, the Division secured more than $273 million in back wages collected and damages for nearly 152,000 workers nationwide.

    The bill also provides $111 million, $41 million more than President Trump’s budget request, for the Bureau of International Labor Affairs to enforce labor provisions of free trade agreements and trade preference programs and combat international child labor and forced labor. Finally, the bill rejects the proposed elimination of the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs and Women’s Bureau, providing $106 million and $23 million, respectively.

    Key Points & Highlights – Related Agencies

    Social Security Administration (SSA): The bill includes $15.0 billion for SSA’s administrative expenses—an increase of $594 million over fiscal year 2025. This is $100 million more than President Trump’s budget request to help address staffing challenges and improve service to the public. The Trump administration has single-handedly created completely unnecessary chaos at SSA that has weakened Americans’ ability to get the benefits they are owed—and it has continually misled the public with easily disproven claims about widespread fraud. Instead of admitting to its lie, SSA has doubled down and pursued poorly planned and implemented policy changes. The American public and the beneficiaries SSA serves have paid the price, with unacceptable wait times to access the benefits and services Americans deserve, and that they have literally earned through a lifetime of work. Instead of chasing conspiracy theories, the administration should focus on actually improving services and addressing service delivery challenges impacting Americans across the country. The resources in this bill will help SSA do just that.

    AmeriCorps: The bill rejects President Trump’s elimination of AmeriCorps and sustains funding for all of AmeriCorps’ grant programs by providing a total of $1.25 billion to the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS) to administer these programs. This bill also includes new provisions requiring any administration to award AmeriCorps state formula funding in a timely way and includes new requirements to ensure CNCS will award competitive grants in a timely fashion, too. The bill will support AmeriCorps members serving in communities across the country and working to address pressing challenges, including responding to natural disasters, assisting in schools, supporting our veterans, promoting economic opportunity, and conserving and protecting the environment.

    Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB): As a result of Congressional Republicans’ approval of the Rescissions Act of 2025—the first ever partisan rescissions bill signed into law—no funds are provided in the bill for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting and the more than 1,500 locally owned public TV and radio stations nationwide that have, for over 50 years, been supported by CPB funds and infrastructure investments. Republicans’ devastating rescissions bill will particularly hurt 120 stations that rely on CPB for more than 25% of their revenue, who are now scrambling to find new sources of support or significantly reduce programming or close in the coming months.

    Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS): The bill continues to invest $295 million in the nation’s libraries and museums through programs of the Institute of Museum and Library Services and requires IMLS to fund specified programs and activities at amounts identified in the Committee report.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: WATCH: Padilla Condemns Trump Administration’s Threats to Deport DACA Recipients

    US Senate News:

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

    WATCH: Padilla Condemns Trump Administration’s Threats to Deport DACA Recipients

    Padilla: “This mass detention and deportation operation will go down in our history as a stain, a dark chapter in our nation’s history, an outrageous moral failure, intentionally caused by this Administration.”

    WATCH: Padilla spotlights the story of Javier Diaz Santana, a long-term DACA recipient cruelly detained by the Trump Administration

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Last night, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Immigration Subcommittee, took to the Senate floor to defend Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients from the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) baseless statement that “illegal aliens who claim to be recipients of DACA are not automatically protected from deportations.” Padilla slammed the Trump Administration’s push for DACA recipients to “self-deport,” emphasizing that these long-term residents, who were brought to the country as children, have been working, studying, and living legally in the United States since 2012 and are vital members of American communities.

    He highlighted the story of Javier Diaz Santana, a deaf 32-year-old DACA recipient who was arrested while at the Los Angeles car wash where he has worked hard six days a week for the last five years. Masked immigration officials carrying weapons raided the Temple City car wash, confiscating his ID and handcuffing him, preventing him from communicating. Despite having no criminal record and living in the United States since he was five years old, Javier was taken to El Paso, Texas where he faced the risk of deportation.

    As the Trump Administration indiscriminately targets all immigrants, rather than focusing on violent criminals, including arresting lawful permanent residents and those here with legal protections, Padilla pushed for Republicans to finally come together to protect DACA recipients by passing the Dream Act. Padilla emphasized that Republicans continue to voice support for the Dream Act behind closed doors and vowed to keep fighting to secure permanent protections for DACA recipients. He also blasted the Administration for scapegoating hardworking immigrants and using cruel immigration enforcement as spectacles to distract from their failing policy agenda.

    Key Excerpts:

    • “Colleagues, it feels like every single day the Trump Administration finds new ways to defy the rule of law. They will tear families apart, decimate local businesses, and deceive the public in order to distract from their own failures and scandals. And nowhere has this been clearer than in their cruelty towards immigrants.”
    • “If it was just deportation operations focused on dangerous violent criminals, there would be no discussion, there would be no debate, there would be no disagreement. But that’s not what this Administration is doing. They are going after all immigrants. The vast majority of those that have been arrested and detained and many of those deported, many without due process before being deported, are not convicted criminals.”
    • “The Trump Administration is saying that these young adults who were brought to the United States as children and who have lived here, who have studied here, and who have worked here legally — let me emphasize that: worked here, studied here, lived here legally — since the year 2012, thanks to the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, this Administration is saying now that they have no right to be here, that they could be deported, or maybe should be deported at a moment’s notice, or worse, that they should choose to leave their families and their communities for countries that they’ve never known.”
    • “The whole point of DACA is protection from deportation because these are not criminals or some danger to society. These are young people who have lived in the United States for as long as they can remember. These are young adults who, as kids, were on your little league team or in your Girl Scout troop. For God’s sake, they’re part of our communities, and they’re young adults who have now grown up to be lawyers, to be doctors, to be teachers, and who have more love for everything that this country stands for than anyone threatening them in Trump’s Department of Homeland Security.”
    • “This week, the Trump Administration is now telling them that they should be arrested and thrown out of the only home they’ve ever known in an attempt to satisfy Donald Trump’s quest for political points or an arbitrary quota. To the Trump Administration, let me say this: you cannot claim to love our country at the same time you’re trying to destroy our future.”
    • “Don’t tell me the Trump Administration is following the law when we hear cases like this, and don’t tell me that the Administration is only targeting dangerous, violent criminals because the data proves otherwise. … For as tragic and as heartbreaking as Javier’s story is, he’s not alone. There have been more and more stories of DACA recipients being arrested and detained, and the fear is just growing across communities.”
    • “One thing is certain: this mass detention and deportation operation will go down in our history as a stain, a dark chapter in our nation’s history, an outrageous moral failure, intentionally caused by this Administration. Because for all the tough talk, this is not just politics as usual. In fact, when the Dream Act was first introduced over 20 years ago, it was bipartisan, and it enjoyed bipartisan support for most of the last 20 years, and even today, polling shows an overwhelming majority of the American public supports DACA recipients. Yes, both Republicans and Democrats across the country.”
    • “Make no mistake, Americans will not soon forget what this Administration is doing to their neighbors — to their neighbors, to their co-workers, to their friends. Now, this story doesn’t end the way you think it might, because we will continue fighting, not just to stop these outrageous arrests, but we will not rest until we enact real and permanent protections for DACA recipients who contribute so much to our country.”

    Video of Senator Padilla’s floor speech is available here.

    Senator Padilla is a leading voice in Congress for providing long-term undocumented immigrants with pathways to citizenship or permanent legal residence. Last week, Padilla hosted a press conference in Los Angeles alongside immigration advocates, impacted families, and community leaders to announce legislation to expand a pathway to lawful permanent residency for millions of long-term U.S. residents. As Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids and mass deportation assaults intensified in Los Angeles, Padilla marked the 13th anniversary of the DACA policy by urging Congress to take immediate action to deliver permanent protections for millions of families, parents, and individuals who are increasingly at risk amid President Trump’s mass deportation agenda. He also delivered remarks on the Senate floor ahead of the anniversary, pushing for permanent protections for Dreamers rather than the indiscriminate ICE raids stoking fear in Los Angeles communities.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Pfluger Holds Town Hall in Mertzon

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11)

    Rep. Pfluger Holds Town Hall in Mertzon

    Mertzon, Texas, July 31, 2025

    MERTZON, TX—Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) hosted a community town hall in Mertzon to recognize a local good news story, give an update on the 119th Congress, and take questions from those in attendance.

    During the town hall, Congressman Pfluger recognized the 2025 Senior Rifle Team – consisting of Daniel Crutchfield, James Crutchfield, Arely Reyes, and Payton Rose – who recently placed 9thout of 28 teams at the State 4-H Shooting Sports Match in Victoria, Texas. The 4-H Rifle Team is one of the largest 4-H programs in Irion County, and this was a huge accomplishment for their school.

    “It was an honor to be in Mertzon and recognize Irion County High School’s 2025 Senior Rifle Team for their outstanding achievements at the State 4-H Shooting Sports Match. Our students are the future of America, and it was great having these young and bright individuals represented at the town hall,” said Rep. Pfluger. “Hosting town halls across Texas-11 will always be a top priority of mine because hearing directly from the hardworking men and women who call this district home is essential to my work. Thank you to everyone who came out to listen, ask questions, and provide feedback on how I can better represent you and your families in Congress.”

    Photos from the town hall available for broadcast and distribution can be found HERE, and a few highlighted below.

    Rep. Pfluger pictured with Senior Rifle Team members Daniel Crutchfield, James Crutchfield, Arely Reyes, and Payton Rose

    Rep. Pfluger pictured with members of Irion County High School’s Rifle Team

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta, Coalition Secure Major Win as Education Department Restores Previously Withheld Funding

    Source: US State of California

    Thursday, July 31, 2025

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

    OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today responded to official confirmation that the U.S. Department of Education has released previously withheld education funding to California. Attorney General Bonta co-led a coalition in filing a lawsuit challenging the Trump Administration’s abrupt and unlawful decision to freeze this funding earlier this month. 

    “The Trump Administration has officially reversed course on its blatantly illegal, misguided effort to freeze critical education funds weeks before the school year was set to start,” said Attorney General Bonta. “Let’s be clear: This funding should never have been frozen in the first place – that’s why we filed our lawsuit. We’re glad to see the Administration back down from its illegal effort to withhold these funds, but we can’t lose sight of the long-term damage caused by the President’s campaign of chaos and uncertainty. California will not stop fighting to hold the President and his Administration accountable to the law and to protect our children’s educational future.” 

    BACKGROUND

    On June 30, the Trump Administration abruptly and unlawfully froze funding for six longstanding programs administered by the U.S. Department of Education just weeks before the school year in many parts of California is set to start. For decades, California and other states have used funding under these programs to carry out a broad range of programs and services, including educational programs for migrant children and English learners; programs that promote effective classroom instruction, improve school conditions and the use of technology in the classroom; community learning centers that offer students a broad range of opportunities for academic and extracurricular enrichment; and adult education and workforce development efforts. 

    On July 14, Attorney General Bonta co-led a coalition of 23 attorneys general and two states together in filing a lawsuit and motion for a preliminary injunction, arguing that the freeze violates federal funding statutes and regulations authorizing these critical programs and appropriating funds for them, federal statutes governing the federal budgeting process, and the constitutional separation of powers doctrine and the Presentment Clause.  

    On July 25, the California Department of Education (CDE) received notice from ED that beginning the week of July 28, 2025, ED would begin releasing previously impounded federal funds for the current federal and education fiscal year. Yesterday, CDE received Grant Award Notifications confirming that the entirety of the funds is being released. 

    Attorney General Bonta is committed to defending California’s educational institutions and students against the Trump Administration’s illegal attacks. Attorney General Bonta has filed lawsuits challenging the unlawful termination of grant funding for K-12 teacher preparation programs; the mass firings and dismantling of the Education Department; unlawful conditioning of K-12 education funding; and the discontinuation of school mental health grant funding. He’s also secured other relief for California schools including the funding released this week and $200 million in previously awarded education funding to address the long-term effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on schools.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: CLEAR Joins White House and CMS Effort to Power an Interoperable, Secure Digital Health Ecosystem

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, July 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CLEAR (NYSE: YOU), the secure identity platform, is participating in the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Health Tech Ecosystem initiative, a nationwide effort to deliver a more connected, patient-centered healthcare system.

    CLEAR was proud to stand alongside government, healthcare, and technology leaders at the White House this week to support the launch of this national collaboration, and to reinforce its role as the trusted, full service Identity Assurance Level 2 (IAL2)/Authenticator Assurance Level 2 (AAL2) identity layer underpinning partner ecosystems across healthcare.

    “CLEAR applauds the Administration’s commitment to accelerating the digital transformation of healthcare and is proud to be a trusted partner in this nationwide effort,” said Caryn Seidman Becker, CEO of CLEAR. “By serving as an IAL2 identity layer in healthcare ecosystems, CLEAR is helping to kill the clipboard, eliminate friction, and give patients control of their medical information in a secure, seamless way. We believe identity is the key to unlocking personalized, efficient, and patient-centered care.”

    At the heart of this CMS-led effort is a push to make health data more accessible, interoperable, and actionable, empowering patients, reducing provider burden, and improving outcomes. CLEAR’s reusable identity platform for healthcare organizations and businesses, CLEAR1, is already enabling this transformation across leading platforms and health systems, including Epic, Surescripts, Wellstar, Community Health Network, University of Miami Health and b.well.

    These partners are leveraging CLEAR1 for use cases such as streamlining patient onboarding and check-in, enhancing workforce security, simplifying access to medical records, and strengthening data protection. Together, these efforts demonstrate how secure, interoperable identity can reduce friction, lower costs, and enable a more connected healthcare experience.

    CLEAR1 is a NIST IAL2/AAL2-compliant identity solution that gives patients and providers a reusable, privacy-centric credential to unlock services across the care journey, whether creating a MyChart account, verifying coverage, or accessing claims data.

    Over 60 companies have signed on to the CMS Health Tech Ecosystem pledge, committing to advance tools that:

    • Help patients manage chronic conditions like diabetes and obesity
    • Use AI assistants to navigate symptoms and schedule care
    • “Kill the clipboard” by digitizing check-in and intake
    • Securely share data across trusted networks using modern identity credentials

    “We are excited that identity services – like CLEAR – are making it possible for patients and providers to use verified, secure identity as part of CMS’s Health Tech Ecosystem,” said Amy Gleason, Acting Administrator for the U.S. DOGE Service and Strategic Advisor to the Department of Health and Human Services and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid. “Checking in at the doctor’s office should be the same as boarding a flight. Patients should be able to scan a QR code to instantly and safely share their identity, insurance and medical history”.

    “Our work with CLEAR has meaningfully improved the speed and reliability of provider identity verification across our network,” said Frank Harvey, CEO of Surescripts. “It’s a powerful example of how focused collaboration can drive real progress. This pledge builds on that momentum—demonstrating how innovators across healthcare are advancing interoperability to reduce administrative burden and refocus clinicians’ time where it matters most: patient care.”

    “Identity is foundational to creating the connected, consumer-first healthcare experience that people expect, and it’s what b.well was built to deliver,” said Kristen Valdes, CEO and Founder of b.well. “Our partnership with CLEAR brings a trusted, IAL2-compliant identity layer into that experience, giving patients and caregivers a seamless, unified way to access and share their health information across providers and platforms.”

    “As part of our pledge to become a CMS Aligned Network, our relationship and planned integration with CLEAR will give us a unique opportunity to bring IAL2 identity verification to providers who are newer to the interoperability space,” said Therasa Bell, President and Founder of Kno2. “That includes nurses, physical therapists, behavioral health providers, dentists, and paramedics, and it will enable them to securely communicate and share patient records across the broader healthcare ecosystem.”

    “Modern identity is the key to enabling safe, secure, and trusted data exchange across healthcare,” said Aneesh Chopra, former Chief Technology Officer of the United States. “CLEAR’s work to deliver IAL2-compliant digital identity helps unlock the promise of interoperability—giving patients and providers the confidence to share information seamlessly and securely.”

    CLEAR1 is already powering many of these functions across CLEAR’s health, financial services, and workforce partners—and stands ready to support the rollout of CMS-Aligned Networks in 2026 and beyond.

    About CLEAR
    CLEAR’s mission is to strengthen security and create frictionless experiences. With over 31 million Members and a growing network of partners across the world, CLEAR’s secure identity platform is transforming the way people live, work, and travel. Whether you are traveling, at the stadium, or on your phone, CLEAR connects you to the things that make you, you – making everyday experiences easier, more secure, and friction-free. CLEAR is committed to privacy done right. Members are always in control of their own information, and we never sell Member data. For more information, visit clearme.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This release may contain statements that constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. This includes, without limitation, statements relating to CLEAR’s participation in the CMS Health Tech Ecosystem initiative. Investors are cautioned that any and such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance or results and involve risks and uncertainties, and that actual results, developments and events may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including risks associated with the initiative and CLEAR’s participation therein, and those described in the Company’s filings within the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the sections titled “Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10- K. The Company disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained herein.

    CLEAR
    media@clearme.com

    This press release was published by a CLEAR® Verified individual.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth-Murkowski Bipartisan Bill Passes Committee to Provide Public Health Commissioned Officers With Essential Leave Benefits Enjoyed by All Other Uniformed Services

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth

    July 31, 2025

    [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Bipartisan legislation introduced by combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC)—and U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) that would help expand leave benefits for the devoted health professionals serving in the U.S. Public Health Service (PHS) Commissioned Corps passed the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP). Despite being responsible for leading our nation’s emergency response to dangerous public health crises and natural disasters, PHS officers are still the only federal entity—civilian or uniformed—without access to essential leave benefits, including extended parental leave, emergency leave, court appearance leave and rest and recuperation leave. The Senators’ Uniformed Services Leave Parity Act would rectify this issue by ensuring PHS officers have access to the same authorized leave that is available to members of the Armed Services.

    “When disease or disaster threatens our public safety, PHS officers are on the front lines helping keep the American people healthy and out of harm’s way—there’s no reason they shouldn’t have the same leave benefits that officers of the Army, Navy or any of our other uniformed services do,” said Duckworth. “I’m proud that our bipartisan legislation to help right this wrong passed through committee. Now it’s time for the Senate to call a full vote so we can help ensure these devoted health professionals have equal access to the benefits they deserve.”

    “I was pleased to help lead the effort to report the Uniformed Services Leave Parity Act from committee and bring our dedicated PHS officers one step closer to receiving the benefits they deserve,” Senator Murkowski said. “These past oversights must be addressed so that all who serve our nation in times of crisis and disaster are treated equally under federal law.”

    When it comes to leave benefits, the inequity that persists between PHS and the other uniformed services undermines PHS’s ability to recruit and retain qualified professionals that help our nation tackle public health crises like natural disasters, COVID-19 or Ebola. Not only does this inequity compromise the wellbeing of PHS officers, but it also ultimately threatens our nation’s public health emergency preparedness.

    The Uniformed Services Leave Parity Act is endorsed by the Commissioned Officers Association, Military Officers Association of America and Reserved Officers Association.

    Full text of the legislation can be found on the Senator’s website.

    Duckworth has long been a leader in pushing for better benefits and support for members of the armed and uniformed services. Three weeks ago, Duckworth secured her provision to ensure IVF treatment costs are covered on servicemembers’ and military families’ health care plans in the committee-passed Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Last December, Duckworth helped pass the bipartisan Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that gave servicemembers a pay raise and included a Duckworth-led provision to improve access to high-quality medical care for servicemembers and their families in the Indo-Pacific region, among other wins for military families. Duckworth also successfully passed a provision in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) make sure each service is paying its Guard and Reserve members the same monthly incentive pay for maintaining critical skills and taking on hazardous duty as those in the active component. Since this defense bill was signed into law, Duckworth has also pushed to hold DoD accountable for implementing her pay parity provision.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Free speech rules to protect academic freedom come into force

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Free speech rules to protect academic freedom come into force

    New legal duties on universities and colleges come into force, as government delivers Plan for Change to restore integrity of higher education.

    Students, academics and external speakers at universities in England will have their freedom of speech protected by robust new laws coming into force today (Friday 1 August). 

    Under the strengthened rules introduced by this government, universities must actively promote academic freedom, ensuring campuses are places where robust discussion can take place without fear of censorship of students, staff or external speakers expressing lawful opinions. 

    Universities will also be banned from using non-disclosure agreements to silence victims of campus misconduct, protecting vulnerable individuals who may have faced harassment, abuse or sexual assault.   

    If lawful free speech is silenced the Office for Students (OfS) can investigate, and can take action if universities are found to have failed to protect free speech rights.   

    The OfS’ director for free speech and academic freedom has warned institutions that flout the new rules could face record penalties, after the University of Sussex was given a landmark £585,000 fine for its failure to uphold free speech in March. Arif Ahmed said future fines could be higher. 

    These robust protections deliver on the government’s Plan for Change by restoring the integrity of our universities as rigorous centres of intellectual debate, recognising them as a key driver for delivering growth and opportunity across the country. 

    Skills Minister Jacqui Smith said: 

    Academic freedom is non-negotiable in our world-leading institutions, and we will not tolerate the silencing of academics or students who voice legitimate views. 

    These strengthened protections make this explicitly clear in law, and the record fine already handed down by the OfS has put universities on notice that they must comply or face the consequences. 

    Through our Plan for Change we are restoring our world class universities as engines of growth, opportunity and innovation, and fostering a culture of free enquiry and academic freedom is at the heart of that.

    In future a new OfS complaints scheme will ensure academics, external speakers and staff can trigger investigations that could lead to fines if their free speech is not protected. Students will have their free speech complaints considered through the Office of the Independent Adjudicator. 

    The legislation will also ensure student unions are subject to new rules, by holding universities accountable for their activities. 

    The Education Secretary has previously announced that elements of the Act that could have saddled universities with disproportionate legal costs will be removed, as they would have rendered the rules unworkable.

    Jewish community organisations had also raised fears the tort might lead some providers to unduly prioritise speech which is hateful or degrading over the interests of those who are at risk of being harassed and intimidated. 

    Overseas transparency measures contained in the Act will remain under review while the government assesses the impact of the recently-introduced Foreign Influence Registration Scheme. 

    The Office for Students already has powers to require information in response to concerns about free speech or academic freedom, including issues related to suspected foreign interference and funding.

    DfE media enquiries

    Central newsdesk – for journalists 020 7783 8300

    Updates to this page

    Published 1 August 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI China: China makes strides in veterans, martyrs affairs

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

    BEIJING, July 31 — China has broken new ground in work related to veterans and martyrs affairs during the 14th Five-Year Plan period from 2021 to 2025, Minister of Veterans Affairs Pei Jinjia said at a news conference on Thursday.

    In 2022, China issued the first national-level special plan in the field of veterans’ affairs to bolster services and support for retired servicemen. Efforts in employment assistance, training, and rights protection have achieved the expected outcomes since the introduction of the plan, Pei said.

    IMPROVING JOB SUPPORT

    During the five-year period, China has rolled out a series of regulations and policies to support the employment of retired military personnel and broaden their career opportunities.

    Veterans are playing an increasingly important role in the country’s economic and social development, said Vice Minister of Veterans Affairs Xu Yao at the press conference.

    China has provided job placements to over 250,000 demobilized officers and veterans since 2021, Xu said, adding that more efforts will be made to expand job opportunities and streamline placement procedures for veterans.

    According to Sheng Baochen, an official from the ministry’s employment and entrepreneurship department, more than 50,000 job fairs have been held, helping over 1.4 million veterans secure employment opportunities.

    The ministry has guided localities to establish 1,988 business incubation bases to support veterans in business startups nationwide over the past five years, Sheng said.

    Approximately 370,000 veterans now serve as officials of villages and communities, more than 14,800 have become teachers in primary and secondary schools, and over 18,000 have joined China’s national comprehensive fire and rescue teams, he added.

    ENHANCING VETERAN SERVICES

    Pei also highlighted the ministry’s strong focus on improving the construction of service centers in the past five years.

    Efforts have been made to ensure nationwide coverage of veteran services through a six-tiered network of service centers and stations, extending from the national level to villages and communities, with a total of 610,000 units established so far, Pei said.

    In addition, service delivery has been streamlined through the development of mobile apps tailored for veterans, and this digital approach has enhanced service efficiency and improved overall service quality, Pei added.

    Veteran affairs coordinators have been recognized by the government as a new occupation, he said, referring to personnel working at veterans service centers and stations handling tasks such as policy consultation, employment and entrepreneurship support, and rights protection for veterans.

    “The continuous improvement of veteran service centers and stations and their work standards has brought closer ties between veterans and the Party and government,” Pei said.

    HONORING FALLEN HEROES

    From 2021 to 2025, China took back home the remains of 265 soldiers of the Chinese People’s Volunteers (CPV) who died in the War to Resist U.S. Aggression and Aid Korea (1950-1953) and honored them with solemn burial ceremonies.

    According to Pei, DNA samples from the returned remains of 981 CPV soldiers and DNA samples of over 1,300 family members of martyrs have been collected, forming a refined, dynamic database.

    Additionally, China has set up a center for searching and identifying fallen soldiers’ remains, along with a national DNA laboratory for the identification of the remains of martyrs.

    Pei also highlighted that the country has identified burial sites or found relatives for 7,000 fallen soldiers.

    This achievement was made possible through a public service platform launched by the ministry, which encourages and guides public participation in such search efforts, he noted.

    The ministry is committed to strengthening the preservation and utilization of martyr memorials, said Chen Erwei, an official with the ministry, at the press conference.

    Furthermore, China plans to unveil new national-level memorials, historical sites, and a list of prominent heroes from the Chinese People’s War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression (1931-1945), Chen said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fischer Advances $18 Million for Nebraska Health Care Improvements, Modernization

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nebraska Deb Fischer

    Funds to construct training facility for air transport of infectious disease patients, replace hospital water heating systems, upgrade operating room equipment

    Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced she advanced $18 million in funding to support improvements and modernizations of health care facilities in Nebraska. The funding was included in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Labor, Health, and Human Services (LHHS) Appropriations Act, which now awaits consideration on the Senate Floor.

    “Nebraskans deserve modernized and efficient hospitals and emergency care systems as they face ongoing health challenges. The $18 million I advanced for Nebraska through my position on the Appropriations Committee is a good step to help fulfill the mission of delivering quality care to secure better health outcomes for the people of this state,” Fischer said.

    Funding advanced by Fischer    :

    • $12,000,000 for the University of Nebraska Medical Center to construct a training facility for air transport of infectious disease patients
    • $3,500,000 to the City of O’Neill to replace the boiler and water heating systems at Avera St. Anthony’s Hospital
    • $2,500,000 to upgrade operating room equipment at the Community Healthcare System in Friend

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fischer Advances Over $200 Million for National and Nebraska-Based Defense Programs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nebraska Deb Fischer

    Funding for U.S. Strategic Command, 55th Wing, 557th Weather Wing – located at Offutt Air Force Base

    Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced she advanced over $200 million for key national and Nebraska-based defense programs, including U.S. Strategic Command (STRATCOM), 55th Wing, 557th Weather Wing – located at Offutt Air Force Base – in the Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) Defense Appropriations Bill. The bill now awaits consideration on the Senate floor.

    “The first duty of Congress is to defend the nation, and as a member of the Appropriations Committee and Armed Services Committee, I’m working to ensure our nation is equipped to fulfill that mission. That’s why I advanced critical funding for projects that will boost U.S. Strategic Command, the 55th Wing, and the 557th Weather Wing at Offutt Air Force Base, including critical defense programs our nation relies upon to keep our people safe,”     Fischer said.

    Key provisions secured by Fischer include    :

    STRATCOM:

    • $15 million for STRATCOM’s nuclear command, control, and communications (NC3) Enterprise Center’s Rapid Engineering Architecture Collaboration Hub (REACH) program
    • $11 million to expand and improve STRATCOM’s NC3 Enterprise Center’s network sensor demonstration
    • $9 million to test and evaluate advanced electromagnetic warfare technologies

    55th Wing:

    • $20 million to improve alternate position, navigation, and timing (PNT) systems onto the RC-135 fleet

    557th Weather Wing:

    • $1 million to mitigate security risks as the 557th Weather Wing transfers its data processing operations to cloud-based services
    • $1 million to improve 557th Weather Wing’s sensing and modeling capabilities to support emerging missions in the stratosphere

    University of Nebraska:

    • $3 million to enable the University of Nebraska Medical Center to work with the Department of Defense and Health and Human Services (HHS) to build contingency plans for extreme health events
    • $3 million for the University of Nebraska-Lincoln to develop an Automated Resuscitation Catheter (ARCA)

    Other Provisions:

    • $30 million above the President’s budget request for APEX accelerator programs
    • $60 million above the President’s budget request to procure additional MH-139 helicopters to monitor and defend Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) missile fields
    • $50 million above the President’s budget request to stabilize the industrial base for missile components
    • $47.5 million above the President’s budget request to support U.S.-Israel Emerging Technology Cooperation to meet the challenges of the future battlefield

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Volcano Watch — Distant versus local earthquakes and tsunami response times in Hawaii

    Source: US Geological Survey

    Volcano Watch — Distant versus local earthquakes and tsunami response times in Hawaii

    Earthquakes and tsunamis in the news over the past few days are a reminder that we live on a dynamic planet with different hazards and associated response times. While tsunamis generated by large, distant earthquakes take hours to traverse the Pacific Ocean, it is important to remember that local earthquakes can also generate tsunamis—but with much less warning.

    Volcano Watch is a weekly article and activity update written by U.S. Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists and affiliates. 

    On July 29, 2025 at 1:24 p.m. HST, a magnitude-8.8 earthquake struck the Kamchatka Peninsula, Russia. A tsunami warning was issued for the State of Hawaii at 2:43 p.m. HST, and the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center (PTWC) issued a forecast for the first waves of a tsunami to arrive on Hawaiian shores a few minutes after 7:00 p.m. HST. With hours to prepare for the eventual arrival of tsunami waves, sirens sounded and cell phones received multiple alarms as coastal areas were evacuated. As PTWC modeled, tsunami waves began moving through the Hawaiian Islands after 7:00 p.m. HST and had a maximum measurement of 1.7 meters (5.7 feet) in Kahului, Maui. There was ultimately no significant damage in Hawaii and the warning was cancelled just before 11:00 p.m. HST. 

    Large distant earthquakes in the past have generated tsunamis that caused significant damage and deaths in Hawaii. In 1946, a magnitude-7.9 Aleutian Islands, Alaska earthquake generated a tsunami that killed 159 people in the State of Hawaii, with a maximum wave run-up height of 16 meters (55 feet) measured at Pololū Valley on the Island of Hawaiʻi. In 1960, a magnitude-9.5 earthquake in Chile, South America generated a tsunami that killed 66 people in Hilo, with a maximum wave run-up height of 10.6 m (35 feet). Then in 2011, the magnitude-9.0 Tohoku, Japan earthquake generated a tsunami with maximum wave heights of about 3.6 m (12 feet) in Hawaii. Though there was significant damage in Hawaii from the Tohoku tsunami, there were no deaths locally. 

    Improved earthquake detection and tsunami monitoring, along with streamlined emergency communication techniques—such as the text alarms sent in Hawaii on July 29—reduce the risk of people being injured or killed by tsunamis. Another important factor is the response time; tsunami waves generated by distant earthquakes take hours to reach the Hawaiian Islands, which gives people time to evacuate vulnerable areas. Local tsunamis, however, do not need to travel far to reach our shores, which leaves residents and emergency management agencies a much shorter time to respond. 

    Large fault slips along the bases of Hawaiian volcanoes have historically produced damaging earthquakes that generated local tsunamis, and they will certainly do so again in the future. These events leave residents little time to evacuate to safety. Researchers from the University of Hawai‘i have modeled that a tsunami generated from the south flank of the Island of Hawai‘i can wrap around and reach Hilo Bay 4–5 minutes after the earthquake, before propagating through the Hawaiian Islands in less than an hour.

    In 1868, an estimated magnitude-7.9 earthquake occurred beneath Mauna Loa volcano in the District of Kaʻū. It caused landslides and a local tsunami that affected the entire south coast of the Island of Hawaiʻi, killing nearly 100 people. In 1975, a magnitude-7.2 earthquake beneath the south flank of Kīlauea volcano generated a tsunami with maximum wave run-up heights of about 14 meters (47 feet). Two people were killed and many more were injured. Even the magnitude-6.9 earthquake beneath Kīlauea in 2018 generated a small local tsunami with a maximum wave height of 40 centimeters (15.7 inches) in Hilo.

    A USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory geologist measures a scarp that formed on the south flank of Kīlauea during the magnitude-7.2 earthquake in 1975. In this area, near Poliokeawe Pali in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, the scarp is about 1.5 meters (5 feet) high. USGS photo by P. Lipman.

    During these large local earthquakes, the southeast part of the Island of Hawaiʻi—called the Hilina Slump, with its toe beneath the ocean surface—shifts to the southeast and downwards. As this part of the island moves, it displaces ocean water, generating the damaging tsunamis that quickly inundate local shores.

    If you are near the shore in Hawaii, be aware of your surroundings. If you feel strong shaking from a large earthquake, remember that the time you have to respond before the tsunami arrives could be minutes. Receding water could be a sign of an impending tsunami wave to follow. Do not wait for sirens or cell phone alarms, because the tsunami could occur before there is time for those alerts to be sent. Immediately head for higher ground, and wait for emergency management agencies to sound the all-clear before returning to the shoreline.

    Volcano Activity Updates

    Kīlauea has been erupting episodically within the summit caldera since December 23, 2024. Its USGS Volcano Alert level is WATCH.

    Episode 29 of the Kīlauea summit eruption in Halemaʻumaʻu crater occurred on July 20. Summit region inflation since the end of episode 29, along with persistent tremor, suggests that another episode is possible. Current inflation data indicate that episode 30 is likely to start between July 31 and August 3. Sulfur dioxide emission rates are elevated in the summit region during active eruption episodes. No unusual activity has been noted along Kīlauea’s East Rift Zone or Southwest Rift Zone. 

    Mauna Loa is not erupting. Its USGS Volcano Alert Level is at NORMAL.

    No earthquakes were reported felt in the Hawaiian Islands during the past week.

    HVO continues to closely monitor Kīlauea and Mauna Loa.

    Please visit HVO’s website for past Volcano Watch articles, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa updates, volcano photos, maps, recent earthquake information, and more. Email questions to askHVO@usgs.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Trump’s unlawful CalGuard power grab results in 57% decrease in fentanyl pounds seized

    Source: US State of California Governor

    Jul 31, 2025

    What you need to know: While National Guard soldiers were unlawfully federalized by the President to await mission orders in the Los Angeles area, between May and June, there was a 57% drop in fentanyl pounds seized from those same soldiers who were pulled from their vital public safety assignments.

    Los Angeles, California – While President Trump comes to the realization that his unlawful deployment of the military in Los Angeles has been unnecessary and deeply unpopular, there has been a significant drop in the reported fentanyl seizures by California National Guard members.

    Between May and June, there was a 57% decrease in reported pounds of fentanyl seized at ports of entry along the border by CalGuard’s Counterdrug Task Force. In June, only 260 pounds of fentanyl powder were seized.

    Donald Trump and Stephen Miller took the National Guard off of essential public safety assignments to fulfill a sick power grab within California communities. The federal government has created chaos in our economy and society with its twisted authoritarian tactics. The time for each and every single soldier to come home — and go back to work — now.

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Typically, under the Governor’s command, nearly 450 servicemembers are deployed statewide, including at ports of entry, to combat transnational criminal organizations and seize illegal narcotics. CalGuard’s servicemembers dedicated to the state’s Counterdrug Task Force have been reassigned by President Trump to militarize Los Angeles – leaving their highly specialized positions unfilled. The consequences are dire – CalGuard’s efforts help ensure the public safety of communities statewide.

    Guardsmembers are demobilizing 

    Nearly two months after the unlawful federalization of units of the California National Guard, and deployment of almost 5,000 soldiers in the Los Angeles area, all but 300 National Guard members are expected to go home soon. So far, 4,700 soldiers have demobilized or begun demobilizing. The President should allow the remaining soldiers to go back to their families, communities, and civilian professions as doctors, law enforcement and teachers. Earlier this month, 2,000 federalized National Guard members and 700 Marines were called off their mission in Los Angeles.

    Police off the streets, teachers out of classrooms

    Of the 4,000 National Guard members sent to Los Angeles under Trump’s order, their servicemembers have been pulled from essential civilian duties such as medical and first responders, service workers, building trades contractors, law enforcement personnel, corrections officers, civil service and government workers, technology specialists, educators and teachers, and agriculture workers.

    Economic impact of this political theater 

    After the federal government deployed the military unlawfully and began ramping up immigration raids statewide, the number of people reporting to work in the private sector in California decreased by 3.1% — a downturn only recently matched by the period when people stayed home from work during the COVID-19 lockdown.

    Governor Newsom recently met with local restaurant owners in the City of Bell and faith leaders in Downey to discuss the economic impact these indiscriminate immigration actions have had on their small business.

    Trump’s actions have a ripple effect – the state’s economy is likely to contract later this year due to fallout from global tariffs and immigration raids in Los Angeles and other cities that have rattled key sectors, including construction, hospitality, and agriculture, according to a UCLA Anderson forecast. 

    Mass arrests, detentions and deportations in California could slash $275 billion from the state’s economy and eliminate $23 billion in annual tax revenue. The loss of immigrant workers, undocumented and those losing lawful status under the Trump administration, would delay projects (including rebuilding Los Angeles after the wildfires), reduce food supply, and drive up costs. Undocumented immigrants contributed $8.5 billion in state and local taxes in 2022 — a number that would rise to $10.3 billion if these taxpayers could apply to work lawfully.

    End the power grab now

    Community leaders, public officials, veterans and others agree – the federal government’s actions in California not only have a chilling effect on the state’s society and economy, but also continue to undermine the valuable contributions from members of the military while in and out of uniform. 

    Republican and Democratic former governors agree—Trump’s federalization violates the critical balance between state and federal government. Recently, a bipartisan group of 25 former governors filed a brief in support of Newsom v. Trump, urging the court to enforce state sovereignty and block the unprecedented federalization of the National Guard. 

    Retired four-star admirals and generals and former secretaries of the Army and Navy filed another amicus brief outlining the grave risks of Trump’s illegal takeover of the CalGuard. Several veterans and veteran rights’ groups came together to decry Trump’s militarization of California.

    Recent news

    Jul 31, 2025

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    Jul 31, 2025

    News What you need to know: With nearly all National Guard soldiers demobilizing, Governor Gavin Newsom is calling on the President to allow the 300 remaining National Guard soldiers to go home now.  Los Angeles, California – Nearly two months after the unlawful…

    Jul 30, 2025

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    Jul 31, 2025

    What you need to know: While National Guard soldiers were unlawfully federalized by the President to await mission orders in the Los Angeles area, between May and June, there was a 57% drop in fentanyl pounds seized from those same soldiers who were pulled from their vital public safety assignments.

    Los Angeles, California – While President Trump comes to the realization that his unlawful deployment of the military in Los Angeles has been unnecessary and deeply unpopular, there has been a significant drop in the reported fentanyl seizures by California National Guard members.

    Between May and June, there was a 57% decrease in reported pounds of fentanyl seized at ports of entry along the border by CalGuard’s Counterdrug Task Force. In June, only 260 pounds of fentanyl powder were seized.

    Donald Trump and Stephen Miller took the National Guard off of essential public safety assignments to fulfill a sick power grab within California communities. The federal government has created chaos in our economy and society with its twisted authoritarian tactics. The time for each and every single soldier to come home — and go back to work — now.

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Typically, under the Governor’s command, nearly 450 servicemembers are deployed statewide, including at ports of entry, to combat transnational criminal organizations and seize illegal narcotics. CalGuard’s servicemembers dedicated to the state’s Counterdrug Task Force have been reassigned by President Trump to militarize Los Angeles – leaving their highly specialized positions unfilled. The consequences are dire – CalGuard’s efforts help ensure the public safety of communities statewide.

    Guardsmembers are demobilizing 

    Nearly two months after the unlawful federalization of units of the California National Guard, and deployment of almost 5,000 soldiers in the Los Angeles area, all but 300 National Guard members are expected to go home soon. So far, 4,700 soldiers have demobilized or begun demobilizing. The President should allow the remaining soldiers to go back to their families, communities, and civilian professions as doctors, law enforcement and teachers. Earlier this month, 2,000 federalized National Guard members and 700 Marines were called off their mission in Los Angeles.

    Police off the streets, teachers out of classrooms

    Of the 4,000 National Guard members sent to Los Angeles under Trump’s order, their servicemembers have been pulled from essential civilian duties such as medical and first responders, service workers, building trades contractors, law enforcement personnel, corrections officers, civil service and government workers, technology specialists, educators and teachers, and agriculture workers.

    Economic impact of this political theater 

    After the federal government deployed the military unlawfully and began ramping up immigration raids statewide, the number of people reporting to work in the private sector in California decreased by 3.1% — a downturn only recently matched by the period when people stayed home from work during the COVID-19 lockdown.

    Governor Newsom recently met with local restaurant owners in the City of Bell and faith leaders in Downey to discuss the economic impact these indiscriminate immigration actions have had on their small business.

    Trump’s actions have a ripple effect – the state’s economy is likely to contract later this year due to fallout from global tariffs and immigration raids in Los Angeles and other cities that have rattled key sectors, including construction, hospitality, and agriculture, according to a UCLA Anderson forecast. 

    Mass arrests, detentions and deportations in California could slash $275 billion from the state’s economy and eliminate $23 billion in annual tax revenue. The loss of immigrant workers, undocumented and those losing lawful status under the Trump administration, would delay projects (including rebuilding Los Angeles after the wildfires), reduce food supply, and drive up costs. Undocumented immigrants contributed $8.5 billion in state and local taxes in 2022 — a number that would rise to $10.3 billion if these taxpayers could apply to work lawfully.

    End the power grab now

    Community leaders, public officials, veterans and others agree – the federal government’s actions in California not only have a chilling effect on the state’s society and economy, but also continue to undermine the valuable contributions from members of the military while in and out of uniform. 

    Republican and Democratic former governors agree—Trump’s federalization violates the critical balance between state and federal government. Recently, a bipartisan group of 25 former governors filed a brief in support of Newsom v. Trump, urging the court to enforce state sovereignty and block the unprecedented federalization of the National Guard. 

    Retired four-star admirals and generals and former secretaries of the Army and Navy filed another amicus brief outlining the grave risks of Trump’s illegal takeover of the CalGuard. Several veterans and veteran rights’ groups came together to decry Trump’s militarization of California.

    Recent news

    Jul 31, 2025

    News What you need to know: California has completed a multi-year effort to modernize its aerial firefighting fleet, with the final delivery of two state-of-the-art Fire Hawk helicopters arriving in Sacramento – bringing CAL FIRE’s Fire Hawk fleet to a total of 16…

    Jul 31, 2025

    News What you need to know: With nearly all National Guard soldiers demobilizing, Governor Gavin Newsom is calling on the President to allow the 300 remaining National Guard soldiers to go home now.  Los Angeles, California – Nearly two months after the unlawful…

    Jul 30, 2025

    News What you need to know: In response to concerns from local elected leaders and community members about the potential for widespread SB 9 development concentrated in areas rebuilding from destructive fires and crowding evacuation routes, the Governor today issued…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Mountain America Credit Union Announces $40,000 Show Up for Teachers Grant Winners

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SANDY, Utah, July 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Mountain America Credit Union, in partnership with Utah First Lady Abby Cox’s Show Up for Teachers initiative, announced the 40 recipients of the inaugural Show Up for Teachers Grants. Each educator has been awarded a $1,000 grant through the Mountain America Foundation to promote creativity in the classroom and foster engaging learning environments.

    A Media Snippet accompanying this announcement is available by clicking on this link.

    Recipients were chosen from a competitive pool of applicants across the state and selected for their innovation, commitment to education, and impact on their students and communities. Grant proposals included initiatives such as STEM enrichment tools, inclusive reading materials, and technology upgrades to better meet student needs.

    “Connecting with these educators at the Show Up for Teachers Conference was a powerful reminder of the passion and innovation they bring to their classrooms,” said Sharlene Wells, senior vice president of public relations and organizational communications at Mountain America. “It was a privilege to honor 40 extraordinary teachers whose grant submissions reflected thoughtful strategy and genuine commitment. We’re proud to champion their efforts to enrich student learning and make a lasting impact across Utah.”

    The grant recipients were celebrated at the Show Up for Teachers Conference on July 10, 2025, at the Mountain America Expo Center. During a special presentation, First Lady Abby Cox joined Mountain America CEO and president Sterling Nielsen honoring the winners for their dedication and passion.

    In addition to the $1,000 grant, each educator also received a blanket generously donated by Minky Couture as a token of appreciation for their tireless work and lasting impact in the classroom.

    The Show Up for Teachers Conference welcomed more than 2,000 educators from across Utah for a day of professional development, networking, and support. Mountain America representatives engaged with teachers through interactive activities and promotional resources.

    To view a full list of grant recipients, visit macu.com/showup.

    To learn more about Mountain America’s community involvement, visit macu.com/newsroom.

    About Mountain America Credit Union
    With more than 1 million members and $20 billion in assets, Mountain America Credit Union helps its members define and achieve their financial dreams. Mountain America provides consumers and businesses with a variety of convenient, flexible products and services, as well as sound, timely advice. Members enjoy access to secure, cutting-edge mobile banking technology, over 100 branches across multiple states, and more than 50,000 surcharge-free ATMs. Mountain America—guiding you forward. Learn more at macu.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: The royal commission recommended abolishing time limits on abuse cases – a year on, nothing has changed

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Zoë Prebble, Lecturer in Criminal Law, Te Herenga Waka — Victoria University of Wellington

    Getty Images

    Among the 138 recommendations of the Abuse in Care Royal Commission of Inquiry’s final report to parliament was a clear call: remove the legal time limits that prevent survivors of historic abuse from seeking justice in civil court.

    That report – Whanaketia – Through pain and trauma, from darkness to light – was published on July 24 last year. One year on, the government has yet to act.

    Without that reform, survivors of historic abuse remain vulnerable to being turned away by the legal system – not because their experiences aren’t credible, but because the law still treats them as being out of time.

    The royal commission heard from thousands of survivors of childhood abuse in the care of state and faith-based institutions between 1950 and 1999. What stood out was how often that harm was made worse by silence, disbelief and legal systems that failed to respond.

    Limitation periods in abuse cases

    Under New Zealand law, people generally have six years from the time a harm occurs to bring a civil claim. That limit is set out in the Limitation Act 2010 for events after 2011, and in the Limitation Act 1950 for events before that.

    For survivors of historic abuse, particularly childhood abuse, that six-year window rarely reflects how trauma actually works. Survivors often take decades to feel sufficiently safe and supported to come forward and name what happened to them.

    The 1950 law allowed limitation periods to be paused if a claimant was under a “disability” – a legal term meaning they were either a child or, in the language of the time, of “unsound mind”. In practice, this meant the six-year clock usually didn’t start for children until they reached adulthood.

    The 2010 law clarified this by explicitly saying the limitation period for children begins at 18. It also introduced a new “incapacitated” exception, allowing the clock to pause for adults who are unable to make decisions or take legal action because of trauma or other conditions.

    But in practice it’s a narrow doorway. Courts require survivors to prove not just trauma, but a high legal incapacity threshold.

    This means that even when the abuse is acknowledged, and even when survivors have strong evidence, civil cases are often barred. The bar is not that the harm didn’t happen, but that it happened “too long ago”.

    How civil time limits deny justice

    In 2019, former Air Force servicewoman Mariya Taylor brought a civil claim against the sergeant who had sexually abused her in the 1980s while both were stationed at the Whenuapai base.

    The court accepted the abuse had occurred. But because Taylor was not legally considered “disabled” by trauma, and the six-year window had closed, her case was struck out under the Limitation Act 1950. Adding insult to injury, she was ordered to pay costs to her abuser.

    At 18, Taylor had entered a rigid military hierarchy where power and discipline made reporting abuse nearly impossible.

    Her case shows how limitation periods can block even well-evidenced claims, and how institutional dynamics such as silence, shame and obedience often delay disclosure.

    These same patterns were pivotal to the royal commission’s findings.

    Australia is ahead of NZ

    Australia has taken a markedly different approach. In line with the final report of its own Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse in 2017, every state and territory removed civil limitation periods for survivors of childhood abuse.

    Survivors can now bring civil claims regardless of how long ago the abuse occurred. In landmark case in 2023, GLJ v. The Trustees of the Roman Catholic Church for the Diocese of Lismore, the High Court of Australia rejected a request to shut down proceedings even though the alleged abuser and other witnesses had died. The court said the case could still go ahead using available evidence.

    The GLJ decision is important for New Zealand courts. It shows that while removing time bars doesn’t guarantee victory for survivors, it does give them the chance to be heard.

    Delayed but not denied

    Removing time limits for civil claims involving historic abuse, as the royal commission recommended, is now overdue.

    A first step would be for the government to clearly commit to amending the Limitation Act 2010 to exclude claims of historic abuse – especially child sexual abuse – from the six-year deadline.

    This would bring New Zealand into line with Australia and recognise what we now know about the delayed nature of disclosure, trauma and institutional silence. It would also honour the spirit of the royal commission’s work.

    As courts and commissions have recognised, removing limitation periods doesn’t guarantee a win for survivors. But it does mean they’re at least allowed to try.

    For years, survivors have been told they’ve spoken too late. Reforming limitation laws won’t undo the harm they suffered. But it will show their testimony matters, and that justice delayed does not have to mean justice denied.

    Zoë Prebble 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. The royal commission recommended abolishing time limits on abuse cases – a year on, nothing has changed – https://theconversation.com/the-royal-commission-recommended-abolishing-time-limits-on-abuse-cases-a-year-on-nothing-has-changed-261831

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Searching for a lethal needle in a haystack: traces of highly potent synthetic opioids found in used syringes

    Source:

    01 August 2025

    A class of synthetic opioids that are up to 1000 times more potent than morphine have been found in used syringes across metropolitan Adelaide, sparking fears of a wave of overdoses that could be lethal.

    In the first study of its kind in South Australia, University of South Australia researchers have detected traces of nitazene in samples of discarded injecting equipment, plastic bags, vials and filters from public disposal bins at local needle and syringe program sites.

    Their findings are published today (Friday 1 August) in the Drug & Alcohol Review.

    Using highly sensitive chemical analysis, researchers identified nitazenes in 5% of 300 samples, mainly in combination with heroin and mostly found in syringes.

    Nitazenes led to 32 overdose deaths in Australia between 2020 and 2024, with 84% of patients unaware the synthetic opioid was present in the drug they consumed. It is increasingly hidden in illicit drugs such as fentanyl and heroin, posing extreme overdose risks, often with fatal consequences.

    “Nitazenes are among the most potent synthetic opioids in circulation today, some stronger than fentanyl, which is 50 times more potent than heroin,” according to lead researcher UniSA Associate Professor Cobus Gerber.

    “These substances can be lethal in tiny quantities and are often mixed with other drugs, making them incredibly difficult to detect and monitor through traditional means,” he says.

    Several different nitazenes were identified, some of them combined with the non-opioid veterinary sedative xylazine, which is not approved for human use.

    “This is particularly alarming,” says Assoc Prof Gerber, “as xylazine has been linked to severe adverse effects, including necrotic skin lesions, prolonged sedation and depression.

    “Finding xylazine alongside nitazenes in the same samples is a worrying sign because it mirrors what we are seeing overseas, especially in the United States, where these drug combinations are contributing to a wave of overdose deaths and complex clinical presentations.”

    Less than one in five nitazene-related emergency cases in Australia involved people who knowingly took the drug, with most people mistakenly believing they consumed heroin, methamphetamine or other familiar substances.

    “Accidental exposure is a key risk,” says co-author UniSA researcher Dr Emma Keller.

    “When drugs are contaminated with nitazenes, the margin for error narrows dramatically. Standard doses can become fatal, especially for people who don’t know what their product contains or who don’t carry naloxone, a medication that can rapidly reverse the effects of an opioid overdose.”

    The detection of these substances in South Australia comes amid growing calls for expanded drug-checking services, including the use of nitazene-specific drug strips and public health alerts.

    Associate Prof Gerber says that chemical testing of used drug paraphernalia is a non-invasive, effective way to identify emerging threats in the drug supply.

    “This kind of data can trigger rapid alerts to health agencies, treatment services and peer networks, allowing people who use drugs to make more informed choices.”

    Wastewater analysis is also used to detect illicit drugs in the community, but due to the sporadic nature of drug use, other monitoring approaches like chemical testing are necessary.

    Drug and Alcohol Services South Australia, who co-authored the study, has shared the findings with community advisory groups, healthcare providers and the state’s early warning system network.

    ‘Searching for a Needle in a Haystack: Chemical Analysis Reveals Nitazenes Found in Drug Paraphernalia Residues’ in published in Drug and Alcohol Review. DOI: 10.1111/dar.70010

    …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

    Researcher contacts: Associate Professor Cobus Gerber M: +61 423 496 066
    E: cobus.gerber@unisa.edu.au; Dr Emma Pedler M: +61 424 950 030 E: emma.pedler@unisa.edu.au
    Media contact: Candy Gibson M: +61 434 605 142 E: candy.gibson@unisa.edu.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Our Poppies the pick of the bunch

    Source:

    01 August 2025

    UniSA’s Dr Sarah Boyle and Dr Ben Singh, recipients of SA’s 2025 Young Tall Poppy Awards

    Six researchers from the University of Adelaide and University of South Australia have been named as this year’s South Australian Young Tall Poppies, with their expertise in chrono-nutrition, climate science, marine ecology and precision measurement garnering this prestigious recognition.

    The Young Tall Poppy science awards are an initiative of the Australian Institute of Policy and Science (AIPS) and have been established to celebrate researchers who combine cutting-edge science with a passion for engaging and inspiring others.

    “I am thrilled to see such a strong showing from both the University of Adelaide and University of South Australia,” said Professor Anton Middelberg, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) at the University of Adelaide and Deputy Vice Chancellor Research & Innovation at Adelaide University.

    “These are six bright young minds who are leading their fields and improving so many aspects of our society through their work. It is exciting to have their combined talent included in the inaugural cohort for Adelaide University, which opens in 2026.”

    The University of Adelaide and University of South Australia researchers honoured in the South Australian 2025 Young Tall Poppy Science Awards comprise:

    Dr Sarah Boyle is an ARC DECRA Research Fellow at UniSA’s Centre for Cancer Biology, leading the Cancer Matrix and Mechanics Group within the Tumour Microenvironment Laboratory. Her research investigates how cancer cells hijack non-cancerous cells in their vicinity, and how physical stress in the tumour’s ecosystem promotes metastasis and recurrence. By identifying the mechanisms involved, she is paving the way for new treatments and improved patient outcomes.

    Dr Georgina Falster is a DECRA Fellow from the University of Adelaide’s School of Physics, Chemistry and Earth Sciences, whose research focuses on climate science. She is interested in local and global water cycles from monthly to multi-centennial time scales, and is looking into how Australian droughts are changing and using water isotopes to track dynamic variability in the water cycle.

    Dr Amy Hutchison is a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Adelaide’s Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, and based within SAHMRI’s Lifelong Health Theme. Her research explores how modified meal patterns, such as intermittent fasting and time-restricted feeding, can improve blood glucose control and cardiovascular risk – a field known as chrono-nutrition.

    Dr Sarah Scholten, from the University of Adelaide’s School of Physics, Chemistry and Earth Sciences, researches how the unique properties of light can be harnessed to break the boundaries of precision measurement. Dr Scholten is part of a team that has developed a compact high-stability clock that outperforms GPS navigation systems and could be more reliable for use as a timing signal in defence applications.

    Dr Ben Singh, from UniSA’s Allied Health and Human Performance Academic Unit, researches physical inactivity and why so many people remain physically inactive despite knowing the benefit of exercise. His research is focused on developing practical, evidence-based tools to help people move more in their daily lives. From tailored exercise programs to mobile apps and wearable devices, he explores how to keep people active and support them to live healthier lives.

    Dr Nina Wootton, a marine ecologist from the University of Adelaide’s School of Biological Sciences, has an interest in the impacts of plastic pollution on marine environments. Dr Wootton’s research has involved quantifying the amount of plastic and microplastic found in seafood species globally, analysing the potential effects of plastic on seafood species and fisheries, and working with the seafood industry to help develop solutions to this growing plastic problem.

    South Australia’s overarching Young Tall Poppy of the Year will be announced on Friday, 8 August. For more information on the Tall Poppy Awards, visit the website.

    Media contacts

    Johnny von Einem, Senior Media Officer, University of Adelaide. Phone: +61 0481 688 436, Email: johnny.voneinem@adelaide.edu.au
    Annabel Mansfield, Senior Media Advisor, University of Adelaide. Phone: +61 479 182 489. Email: Annabel.Mansfield@unisa.edu.au

    Other articles you may be interested in

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Tax time 2025 update – 29 July

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    Welcome and governance

    The ATO Co-chair welcomed members and ATO attendees to the Tax Practitioner Stewardship Group (TPSG) Tax Time 2025 meeting.

    ATO Updates

    Frontline Services

    It’s been a busy start to the week and so far this tax time we’ve received 3.6 million individual lodgments. Overall, this is a 3% decrease compared to last year. Lodgment numbers for self-preparers have decreased 2%, whilst agent lodged returns are down 6%.

    We’ve received on average around 22,000 calls from agents each week, totalling 89,000. This is 11% down from this time last year.

    Around 21.2 million (or 95%) of Single Touch Payroll (STP) records have been finalised. This is similar to the same time last year.

    Member comments

    A member queried why so many tax agents are calling when they have access to the Online services for agents (OSFA) portal. We advised there could be several drivers for the calls. The key calls we are receiving from agents are primarily regarding payment negotiations and GST. Overall agent calls are on the decline, and this may be attributed to the reduction in calls regarding compromised accounts.

    A member advised the refund requests and Pay As You Go (PAYG) registrations functionality in OSFA has disappeared, which may also be a reason that agents are calling. We agreed to investigate this further.

    IT system updates & maintenance

    Overall, we’ve had good stability, and performance across systems throughout tax time, with a maintenance release successfully deployed over the weekend.

    It was however noted, that at around 8:30am AEST on 29 July 2025, we saw degradation across all online services that required authentication to access. Other services not requiring authentication remained stable. The issue was resolved around 11am AEST.

    Member comments

    A member advised access manager was still having problems and there were also some linking issues. We confirmed both access manager and ABR were having some intermittent issues and our teams were monitoring and addressing the degradation.

    ATO Digital services

    We noted that digital services are operating as intended and there is nothing to report.

    ATO Communications

    We released a statement in the media centre addressing the Four Corners report that aired on 28 July.

    The bill before Parliament to cut student debt by 20% this is not yet law (as at 29 July 2025). We advised that no action is required and there will be communications in the next couple of weeks encouraging agents to lodge as normal. We advised if the law passes, the reduction will be backdated to the student debt balance the individual had on 1 June 2025.

    Assistant Commissioner Sarah Vawser is presenting a Tax Time 2025 segment at next Tuesday’s TPB ‘tax time tips’External Link webinar.

    We’ve issued a taxpayer alert on GST Fraud, with a particular focus on some property and construction industries making false claims. Tax professionals can assist by reporting of any instances they become aware of to the ATO.

    Member comments

    A member queried if there were concerns that the Four Corners story will be seen as a ‘how to’ guide and whether we are expecting an increase in fraudulent claims as a result. We advised there have been a number of changes to strengthen the system since Operation Protego and we’re closely monitoring the situation.

    A member queried whether the communications to agents regarding the bill before Parliament to cut student debt, will be shared with the Content and Communications Working Group first. We advised until the legislation passes, no action can be taken, as this bill belongs to the Department of Education – however we will consider this suggestion.

    Member Insights and Experience

    Member comments

    A member advised that from a tax clinics point of view, they’re receiving a large amount of contact from individuals and small businesses experiencing financial difficulty. The tax clinics are analysing their data from the past 7 years regarding contact received, and what was required to assist. With over 10,000 applications during this time, they believe the data may assist the ATO to provide future educational pieces for vulnerable taxpayers. We advised we would be interested in the findings from their analysis.

    A member raised concerns around a communication issuing through myGov for first time PAYG Instalment receivers. Taxpayers receiving this message do not know what it means, the content seems to be missing the mark, and there is no call to action. We advised we will take the review of this communication as an action item.

    A member noted the Tax Ombudsman has released a report on letters issued by the ATO and agreed with the report, that too often the ATO is writing from a revenue authority focus without providing content the audience can clearly understand. We agreed with and will be implementing the Tax Ombudsman’s recommendations.

    Members agreed to shift the meetings to fortnightly. The next meeting will be Tuesday 12 August.

    Useful links

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 01.08.2025 JSC “KAVKAZ.RF” will hold a deposit auction.

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    CategoriesEconomics, Mil-SOSI, Moscow, Russia, Russian Economy, Russian Federal, Russian Language, Moscow Exchange, University life /

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    Archives

    Parameters
    Date of the deposit auction 01.08.2025
    Placement currency Rub
    Maximum amount of funds placed (in placement currency) 600,000,000
    Placement period, days 122
    Date of deposit 08.08.2025
    Refund date 04.12.2025
    Minimum placement interest rate, % per annum 16.5
    Conditions of imprisonment, urgent or special Urgent
    Minimum amount of funds placed for one application (in placement currency) 600,000,000
    Maximum number of applications from one Participant, pcs. 1
    Auction form, open or closed Open
    Basis of the Treaty General Agreement
    Schedule (Moscow time)
    Preliminary applications from 10:30 to 10:40
    Applications in competition mode from 10:40 to 10:45
    Setting a cut-off percentage or declaring the auction invalid until 10:55
    Additional terms

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: A Hawaiian epic made in NZ: why Jason Momoa’s Chief of War wasn’t filmed in its star’s homeland

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Duncan Caillard, Postdoctoral Research Fellow, School of Communication Studies, Auckland University of Technology

    Jason Momoa’s historical epic Chief of War, launching August 1 on Apple TV+, is a triumph of Hawaiians telling their own stories – despite the fact their film and TV production industry now struggles to be viable.

    The series stars Momoa (Aquaman, Game of Thrones) as Kaʻaina, an ali’i (chief) who fights for – and later rises against – King Kamehameha I during the bloody reunification of Hawaii.

    Already receiving advance praise, the nine-episode first season co-stars New Zealand actors Temeura Morrison, Cliff Curtis and Luciane Buchanan, alongside Hawaiian actors Kaina Makua, Brandon Finn and Moses Goods.

    A passion project for Momoa, the Hawaiian star co-created the series with writer Thomas Pa’a Sibbett after years in development. With a reported budget of US$340 million, it is one of the most expensive television series ever produced.

    It is also a milestone in Kānaka Maoli (Native Hawaiian) representation onscreen. Controversially, however, the production only spent a month in Hawaiʻi, and was mostly shot in New Zealand with non-Hawaiian crews.

    Momoa has even expressed an interest in New Zealand citizenship, but the choice of location is more a reflection of the troubled state of the film industry in Hawaiʻi. On the other hand, it is a measure of the success of the New Zealand screen industry, with potential lessons for other countries in the Pacific.

    Ea o Moʻolelo – story sovereignty

    Set at the turn of the 19th century, Chief of War tells the moʻolelo (story, history) of King Kamehameha I’s conquest of the archipelago.

    Hawaiʻi was historically governed by aliʻi nui (high chiefs), and each island was ruled independently. Motivated by the threat of European colonisation and empowered by Western weaponry, Kamehameha established the Hawaiian Kingdom, culminating in full unification in 1810.

    The series is an important example of what authors Dean Hamer and Kumu Hinaleimoana Wong-Kalu have called “Ea o Moʻolelo”, or story sovereignty, which emphasises Indigenous peoples’ right to control their own narrative by respecting the “the inalienable right of a story to its own unique contents, style and purpose”.

    Chief of War is also the biggest Hawaiian television series ever produced. Although Hawaiʻi remains a popular setting onscreen, these productions have rarely involved Hawaiians in key decision-making roles.

    Sea of troubles

    The series hits screens at a time of major disruption in Hollywood, with streaming services upending established business models.

    “Linear” network television faces declining viewership and advertising revenue. Movie studios struggle to draw audiences to theatres. The consequences for workers in the the industry have been severe, as the 2023 writers strike showed.

    Those changes have had a catastrophic impact on the Hawaiʻi film industry, too.

    Long a popular location – Hawaii Five-O (1968-1980, 2010-2020), Magnum P.I. (1980-1988, 2018-2024) and Lost (2004-2010) were all shot on location in Hawaiʻi – it is an expensive place to film.

    Actors, crew and production equipment often have to be flown in from the continental United States, and producers compete with tourism for costly accommodation.

    Kaina Makua as King Kamehameha and New Zealand actor Luciane Buchanan as Ka’ahumanu in Chief of War.
    Apple TV+

    An industry in transition

    These are not uncommon problems in distant locations, and many governments try to attract screen productions through tax incentives and rebates on portions of the production costs.

    New Zealand, for example, offers a 20-25% rebate for international productions and 40% for local productions. Hawaiʻi offers a 22-27% rebate.

    But this is less than other US states offer, such as Georgia (30%), Louisiana (40%) and New Mexico (40%). Hawaiʻi also has an annual cap of US$50 million on rebates.

    To make things even harder, Hawaiʻi offers only limited support for Indigenous filmmakers. Governments in Australia and New Zealand provide targeted funding and support for Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and Māori filmmakers.

    By contrast, the Hawaiʻi Film Commission doesn’t provide direct grants to local filmmakers or producers (Indigenous or otherwise). Small amounts of government funding have been administered through the Public Broadcasting Service, but this is now in jeopardy after US President Donald Trump recently cut federal funding.

    The Hawaiʻi screen industry faces a perfect storm. For the first time since 2004, film and TV production has ground to a halt. Many workers now doubt the long-term sustainability of their careers.

    Lessons from Aotearoa NZ

    While there are lessons Hawaiʻi legislators and industry leaders could learn from New Zealand’s example, there should also be a measure of caution.

    The Hawaiʻi tax credit system is out of date. But despite industry lobbying, legislation to update it failed to reach the floor of the legislature earlier this year. New tax settings would help make local production viable again.

    Secondly, decades of investment in Māori cinema have seen it become diverse, engaging and creatively accomplished. Hawaiʻi could benefit from greater direct investment in Hawaiian storytelling, respecting its cultural value even if it doesn’t turn a commercial profit.

    On the other hand, New Zealand has a favourable currency exchange rate with the US which can’t be replicated in Hawaiʻi. And New Zealand film production workers have seen their rights to unionise watered down compared to their American peers.

    But if Hawaiʻi can get its settings right, a possible second season of Chief of War may yet be filmed there, which could mark a genuine rejuvenation of its own film industry.

    Duncan Caillard 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. A Hawaiian epic made in NZ: why Jason Momoa’s Chief of War wasn’t filmed in its star’s homeland – https://theconversation.com/a-hawaiian-epic-made-in-nz-why-jason-momoas-chief-of-war-wasnt-filmed-in-its-stars-homeland-261742

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  • MIL-OSI Submissions: How can I tell if I am lonely? What are some of the signs?

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Marlee Bower, Senior Research Fellow, Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, University of Sydney

    gremlin/Getty Images

    Without even realising it, your world sometimes gradually gets smaller: less walking, fewer days in the office, cancelling on friends. Watching plans disintegrate on the chat as friends struggle to settle on a date or place for a catch-up.

    You might start to feel a bit flat or disconnected. Subtle changes in habit and mood take hold. Could you be … lonely?

    It’s not a label many of us identify with easily, especially if you know you’ve got friends, or are in a happy relationship.

    But loneliness can happen to us all from time to time – and identifying it is the first step to fixing it.

    So, what is loneliness?

    Loneliness is the distress we feel when our relationships don’t meet our needs – in quality or quantity.

    It’s not the same as being objectively alone (otherwise known as “social isolation”).

    You can feel deeply lonely even while surrounded by friends, or totally content on your own.

    Loneliness is subjective; many people don’t realise they’re lonely until the feeling becomes persistent.

    What are some of the signs to look for?

    You may feel a physical coldness, emptiness or hollowness (I’ve heard it described as feeling like you are missing an organ). Some research shows social pain is experienced similarly in the brain to physical pain.

    Behavioural signs may include:

    • changes in routine
    • trouble getting to sleep or staying asleep
    • changed appetite (maybe you’re eating more or less than you normally would, or have less variety in your diet)
    • withdrawing from plans you would usually enjoy (perhaps you’re skipping a regular exercise class, or going to shows or sports events less often).

    Emotionally, you may feel:

    • a persistent sadness
    • tired
    • disconnected
    • like you don’t belong, even when you are with others.

    You may also feel more sensitive to rejection or criticism.

    Sometimes, your world shrinks so gradually you barely notice it – until things get quite bad.
    francescoch/Getty Images

    But you’re not alone and you’re not broken.

    Loneliness is a normal response to disconnection.

    The late US neuroscientist John Cacioppo described loneliness as an evolutionary alarm system.

    In the past, being separated from your tribe meant danger and risk from predators, so our brains developed a way to push us back towards connection.

    The pain of loneliness is designed to keep us connected and safe.

    Why is it often hard to recognise loneliness?

    Sadly, there’s still a lot of stigma around admitting loneliness, especially for men.

    Many people resist identifying as lonely, or feel this marks them as a “loser”.

    But this silence can make the problem worse.

    When no one talks about it, it becomes harder to break the cycle of loneliness, and the stigma remains.

    While passing loneliness is normal, chronic or persistent loneliness can hurt our health.

    Research shows chronic loneliness is associated with:

    • depression
    • anxiety
    • weakened immunity
    • heart disease
    • earlier death.

    Loneliness can also become self-reinforcing. When loneliness feels normal, it can start to shape how you see the world: you expect rejection, withdraw more and the cycle deepens.

    The earlier you notice you’re lonely, the easier it is to break.

    But I’m in a relationship, have loads of friends and a rewarding job

    Yes, but you can still be lonely.

    Most of us need different kinds of relationships to thrive. It’s not about how many people you know, but whether you feel connected and have a meaningful role in these relationships.

    You may feel lonely even with strong friendships if you are lacking deeper connection, shared identity or a sense of community.

    This doesn’t mean you’re ungrateful, or a bad friend.

    It just means you need more or different kinds of connection.

    OK, I’ve realised I am lonely. Now what?

    Start by asking yourself: what kind of connection am I missing?

    Is it one-to-one friendships? A partner? Casual social interactions? A shared purpose or community?

    Then reflect on what’s helped you feel more connected in the past. For some, it’s joining a choir, a book club or a sports group. For others, it may be volunteering or just saying “yes” to small social moments, like chatting with your local barista or learning the name of the local butcher.

    If you’re still struggling, a psychologist can help with tailored strategies for building connection.

    The structural causes of loneliness

    It’s also important to remember loneliness is often not because of personal failings or overall mental health.

    My own research shows loneliness is often shaped by structural factors, such as poor planning in our local neighbourhood environments, financial inequality, work pressures, social norms, or even long-term effects of restrictions from the COVID pandemic.

    We are also learning more about how climate change can disrupt social connection and worsen loneliness due to, for example, higher temperatures or bushfires.

    Loneliness is normal, common, human and completely solvable.

    Start by noticing it in yourself and reach out if you can.

    Let’s start talking about it more, so others can feel less alone too.

    Marlee Bower receives funding from the Henry Halloran Urban and Regional Research Initiative, the BHP Foundation, AHURI and NHMRC. She is affiliated with the University of Sydney Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use and Australia’s Mental Health Think Tank.

    – ref. How can I tell if I am lonely? What are some of the signs? – https://theconversation.com/how-can-i-tell-if-i-am-lonely-what-are-some-of-the-signs-261262

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  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Friday essay: libertarian tech titan Peter Thiel helped make JD Vance. The Republican kingmaker’s influence is growing

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Luke Munn, Research Fellow, Digital Cultures & Societies, The University of Queensland

    The money is easy to trace. Scroll back through tech entrepreneur Peter Thiel’s political donations and you’ll soon hit US$15 million worth of transfers sent to Protect Ohio Values, JD Vance’s campaign fund. The donations, made in 2022, are a staggering contribution to an individual senate race, and helped put Vance (Thiel’s former employee at tech fund Mithril Capital) on a winning trajectory.

    But if money matters, so do ideas. Scroll back through Vance’s speeches, and you’ll hear echoes of Thiel’s voice. The decline of US elites (and by extension, the nation) is supposedly a result of technological stagnation: declining innovation, trivial distractions, broken infrastructure. To make the nation great again, Thiel believes, tech should come first, corporates should be unshackled, and the state should resemble the startup. For Vance, who has now risen to the office of US vice-president, a Thiel talk on these topics at Yale Law was “the most significant moment” of his time there.

    Thiel’s influence on politics is at once financial, technical and ideological. In the New York Times, he was recently described as the “most influential right-wing intellectual of the last 20 years”. And his potent cocktail of networks, money, strategy and support exerts a rightward force on the political landscape. It establishes a powerful pattern for up-and-coming figures to follow.

    To “hedge fund investor” and “tech entrepreneur”, Thiel has recently added a new label: Republican kingmaker.

    Who is Peter Thiel?

    Thiel was born in Germany but grew up in the United States, with a childhood sojourn in apartheid South Africa. Max Chafkin’s critical but balanced biography, The Contrarian, claims Thiel was bullied growing up and protected himself by becoming resolutely “disdainful”. He studied philosophy and then law at Stanford, where he founded The Stanford Review, a libertarian–conservative student paper that signalled his early interest in controversial politics and culture wars.

    While difficult to pin down precisely, Thiel’s Christianity shapes his belief in a declining or even apocalyptic world that can only be countered with unapologetic interventions and technological innovations. God helps those who help themselves – but could always use additional help from ambitious tech elites.

    In 1998, Thiel cofounded his first tech company, Confinity, which launched its flagship product PayPal in 1999 and merged with Elon Musk’s X.com in 2000. In 2002, eBay bought PayPal for $1.5 billion and Thiel became a multimillionaire. He invested in several startups, including Facebook, and established his hedge fund, Clarium, and his venture capital firm, Founders Fund.

    In their own ways, each of these developments is a response to Thiel’s thesis that the world is stuck. In his 2011 essay The End of the Future, he decries the “soft totalitarianism of political correctness in media and academia” and the “sordid world” of entertainment. The result is “50 years of stagnation” that has transformed humanity “into this more docile kind of a species”.

    Thiel’s answer is more risk, more tech and more ambition. It’s exemplified most clearly by Palantir Technologies, the data analytics firm he cofounded in 2004.

    Palantir has worked closely with US armed forces and intelligence agencies for 14 years. It is currently working closely with the Trump administration to create a “super-database” of combined data from all federal agencies, and building a platform for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) “to track migrant movements in real time”.

    Investing in right-wing politics

    Thiel’s political interventions have ramped up over time. Libertarianism generally takes an arms-length approach to politics in favour of individual freedom and market determination. But even in “purely” financial spaces, politics creeps in.

    Clarium’s macroeconomic approach meant the political landscape had to be factored in: “high-conviction, directional investments based on key drivers of the global economy and fundamental themes underappreciated by the marketplace”.

    If politics, like technology, had stagnated – into a non-choice between similar parties – how could it be “disrupted”? Thiel began making political donations in December 2011, with contributions totalling at least $2.6 million, to the third presidential campaign of Ron Paul, a longstanding conservative congressman in Texas.

    While Paul would ultimately be unsuccessful, Thiel recognised something others had missed. Voters had not been attracted to some idealistic libertarian, as the media portrayed him, but to the old Ron Paul, a neoconservative whose newsletters published in his name in the 1980s and ‘90s suggested 95% of Black men in Washington DC were criminals. (He denied writing them in 2011, calling the statements “terrible”.) His appeal was never “merely” about economic freedom, but about race and class, fear and grievance.

    Donald Trump took this dark undercurrent, a strain that has always underpinned parts of US politics, and ran with it. Dog-whistles were dispensed with in favour of overt claims that most illegal immigrants were rapists, certain Latin American countries were shitholes, women were bitches, and white supremacists were “very fine people”. Trump, noted one article, was “weaponizing the conservative id”.

    In these visions, multiculturalism and progressivism are not just cultural threats, but economic ones. They undermine the ability of company founders to exploit labour, blow past regulations, and obey the brutal logic of the market.

    “A world safe for capitalism is presumably one of monopoly companies and patriarchal networks,” note media scholars Ben Little and Alison Winch in their profile of Thiel. It’s a world “where ‘the multiculture’ has been transformed into racialised domination”.

    Thiel has certainly contributed to the rise of Trump and the new breed of right-wing politicians through his vast wealth. In 2016, Thiel contributed $1.25 million to Trump’s campaign, thinking “he had a 50-50 chance of winning”. This earned him a speaking slot at the Republican convention. But his influence extends beyond mere money.

    Thiel’s endorsement of Trump at the 2016 Republican convention was hugely significant for garnering support. So was his famous declaration there that he was proud to be gay, Republican and American. After Trump won his first term, Thiel continued to be involved. He joined the transition team and recommended aligned individuals for key positions, such as Michael Kratsios, who would become chief technology officer.

    So, Thiel’s support of Trump should be understood as an investment, just like his early investments in PayPal and Facebook. As Chafkin notes, Thiel’s bet on Trump is a wager with high upsides and low risk. Thiel’s outspoken views in favour of “seasteading” (floating independent city-states) and against immigration and women’s emancipation had already alienated the more progressive sectors of Silicon Valley.

    If the bet paid off, Thiel and his empire could benefit handsomely. And this is exactly what has played out. Since Trump has taken office in his second term, Palantir has already netted more than $113 million in federal government spending.

    Palantir: from information to domination

    Palantir’s origin story reflects its blend of technical expertise and political ambition. To combat rising fraud, members of PayPal developed a software tool that could mine vast amounts of transactions and find the connections between them, homing in on a handful of culprits in a deluge of data.

    Thiel was prescient in spinning this core idea from finance to intelligence, where analysts were searching for patterns and anomalies amid the noise – a needle in a haystack. Palantir commercialised and expanded this concept, bringing a leaner, data-driven Silicon Valley approach to a sector dominated by established Washington incumbents.

    Thiel and Palantir chief executive Alex Karp believe Silicon Valley has lost its way, frittering away its vast talents and ingenuity on trivial pursuits: advertising, gaming, social media. For them, the era of ambitious scientific projects and unapologetic military industrial collaborations – the Manhattan Project, the Moon landing — needs to be revived.

    In his book, the Technological Republic, Karp calls for a state that looks more like a startup – lean, technology-driven, and led authoritatively by a founder-like figure who is not afraid to “move fast and break stuff” (the Silicon Valley motto), especially when it comes to dominating enemies and ensuring the safety of a nation’s citizens.

    Palantir, of course, answers this call. It combines machine learning with military spending, data-driven “intelligence” with naked violence. This is most clear in its longstanding collaboration with ICE, which is now carrying out notorious immigration raids at the behest of the Trump administration. “On the factory floor, in the operating room, on the battlefield,” states a recent Palantir recruitment ad placed across US college campuses, “we build to dominate.”

    Palantir’s blueprint has been emulated by a growing array of others. Anduril, Skydio and Shield AI are all founded on developing information technologies for military and intelligence use. Last week, Rune Technologies closed a $24 million Series A round of funding to move warfare logistics away from the “Excel era” and towards AI-augmented tools.

    Answering Karp’s call, these startups are unapologetic in leveraging engineering expertise for more substantial, authoritarian and historically controversial areas.

    Playing the scapegoat

    One of the clearest outlines of Thiel’s political philosophy is laid out in the Straussian Moment, a 30-page essay he published in 2007.

    For Thiel, the spectacular violence of the September 11 terrorist attacks was a wake-up call, rousing the citizenry from that “very long and profitable period of intellectual slumber and amnesia that is so misleadingly called the Enlightenment”.

    Curtis Yarvin.
    David Merfield/Wikipedia, CC BY

    In Thiel’s view, the Enlightenment project – to advance knowledge, cultivate tolerance, and elevate humanity as a whole – rested on a naive understanding of human nature. Like Curtis Yarvin and other influential Silicon Valley political thinkers, he asserts that humanity is brutal and a shift from Enlightenment optimism to Dark Enlightenment pessimism is required.

    It is unsurprising, then, that Thiel looks to René Girard (once called “the new Darwin of the human sciences”) for inspiration; he even organised a symposium at Stanford with Girard in attendance. Girard begins from a bleak view of human nature, a Hobbesian world where life is nasty, brutish and short. For Girard, mimesis or imitation is at the heart of the human. This mirroring quality means violence is always threatening to escalate, to constantly ramp up with no inherent limit.

    To corral this violence, ancient cultures created the scapegoat, a sacrificial system where all-against-all was replaced by all-against-one. Yet the scapegoat is no longer viable – the revelation of Christ is that the scapegoat is an innocent victim.

    Thiel takes Girard’s insights and twists them to his own ends. First, Thiel asserts that even if violence begets more violence, nonviolence is not an option. Enemies must not be allowed to prevail. In the face of uncompromising adversaries, such as the 9/11 attackers, who threaten to dismantle some idealised way of life, preemptively responding to violence is “urgently demanded”.

    Second, Thiel takes the concept of the scapegoat and flips it. In this judo-like manoeuvre, the real victims are not the marginalised or the minority, but the hegemonic class (whites, males, liberals, conservatives), who are being pressured by cancel culture, political correctness, diversity initiatives and so on.

    Shortly after graduating, Thiel coauthored a book, The Diversity Myth, about alleged political intolerance at Stanford. In it, he rails against a rampant multiculturalism that he claims stifles freedom of speech and derails education and entrepreneurialism. Here, scapegoating is weaponised. It’s mobilised toward a conservative advance in the ongoing cultural wars, which are always also political wars.

    Contradiction or evolution?

    Thiel is a walking paradox. He bemoans cancel culture and political correctness, while waging a highly expensive and clearly personal war to bankrupt a media outlet that offended him. (After Gawker printed the “open secret” of Thiel’s gay status in 2007, Thiel funded lawsuits against them until they were shut down.)

    He calls himself a libertarian, but has founded a company that derives millions in contracts from the bloated budgets of the many military agencies (the National Security Agency, the FBI, the US Army) that now comprise the sprawling state.

    He celebrates capitalism and the free hand of the market, but always stresses that the path to business success rests on establishing monopolies with no real competition. He is a German-born immigrant who actively supports technologies (Palantir) and candidates (Trump) that establish xenophobic environments and seek to deport those deemed “other”. And, most personally, he is both a conservative Republican and an openly gay man.

    At a purely logical level, these elements are incompatible. There is a perceived gap between Thiel’s words and actions, a gulf between his ideologies and his activities. For staunch libertarians at Thiel’s companies, his manoeuvrings at the state level make no sense. For queer scholars, Thiel’s exclusionary rather than liberatory politics mean he is a man who has sex with other men, rather than being gay.

    For these critics, both things cannot be true; therefore, some labels, identities and activities are fake, marginal or impossible. Yet one of Thiel’s many lessons is that contradiction is a strength rather than a weakness.

    Thiel’s philosophy, which journalists have called techno-fascism, recalls philosopher Umberto Eco, who described fascism as a “beehive of contradictions” and “a collage of different philosophical and political ideas”. The radical right, in particular, has no problem mashing together many views that at face value should not fit: scavenger ideologies that are opportunistic in grabbing elements that work for them.

    Instead of contradictions, these hybrid forms need to be understood as evolutions. They are tensions, held within the body and the mind of the subject, that push monolithic frameworks like conservatism beyond their existing limits. Thiel’s power – and his political blueprint for others – is insisting you can be a philosophical entrepreneur, an illiberal patriot, and a queer conservative.

    Luke Munn 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. Friday essay: libertarian tech titan Peter Thiel helped make JD Vance. The Republican kingmaker’s influence is growing – https://theconversation.com/friday-essay-libertarian-tech-titan-peter-thiel-helped-make-jd-vance-the-republican-kingmakers-influence-is-growing-261856

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