Category: Education

MIL-OSI USA: Disaster Recovery Center Relocated in Butler County

Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency 2

strong>FRANKFORT, Ky. –A Disaster Recovery Center has been relocated in Butler County to offer in-person support to Kentucky uninsured and underinsured survivors who experienced loss as the result of the April severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides. The new Disaster Recovery Center in Butler County is located at:

Morgantown Elementary School, 210 Cemetery St., Morgantown, KY 42261
Working hours are 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Central Time, Monday through Saturday and 1 – 7 p.m. Central Time, Sunday.
Disaster Recovery Centers are one-stop shops where you can get information and advice on available assistance from state, federal and community organizations. You can get help to apply for FEMA assistance, learn the status of your FEMA application, understand the letters you get from FEMA and get referrals to agencies that may offer other assistance. The U.S. Small Business Administration representatives and resources from the Commonwealth are also available at the Disaster Recovery Centers to assist you.
FEMA is encouraging Kentuckians affected by the April storms to apply for federal disaster assistance as soon as possible. The deadline to apply is June 25.
You can visit any Disaster Recovery Center to get in-person assistance. No appointment is needed. To find all other center locations, including those in other states, go to fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362.
You don’t have to visit a center to apply for FEMA assistance. There are other ways to apply: online at DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA App for mobile devices or call 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.
When you apply, you will need to provide:

A current phone number where you can be contacted.
Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying.
Your Social Security Number.
A general list of damage and losses.
Banking information if you choose direct deposit.
If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name.

For more information about Kentucky flooding recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4860 and www.fema.gov/disaster/4864. Follow the FEMA Region 4 X account at x.com/femaregion4.

MIL OSI USA News –

June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Public Sector Workers Demand Fix to Healthcare Affordability Crisis

Source: Communications Workers of America

TRENTON, N.J. – Thousands of public sector and State workers gathered at the New Jersey State House Annex today to deliver a message to state lawmakers to put a stop to skyrocketing healthcare costs for New Jersey’s public sector workforce.

Since 2022, healthcare premiums for State workers have increased by 40% while local government workers have seen a 59% compounded increase. The premium increases are putting a huge strain on workers and on the healthcare system itself and are a key driver of the affordability crisis in New Jersey. A typical local government employee earning $65,000 is currently paying over $8,000 for a family plan. With the most recent increases in premiums, that same employee is paying almost $9,500 for that same plan in 2025, effectively eliminating any negotiated salary increase.

A coalition of labor unions, including the Communications Workers of America (CWA), the New Jersey State AFL-CIO, AFSCME NJ, AAUP-AFT, AFT New Jersey, the Council of New Jersey State Colleges, URA-AFT, HPAE, IFPTE, and others, is fighting for legislation to make healthcare more affordable, require fair pricing for healthcare services, and improve the governance and transparency of the State healthcare plan.

“New Jersey’s public sector workers keep our state running every single day, and they should not be punished with unaffordable healthcare costs,” said Dennis Trainor, CWA District 1 Vice President. “It’s time for lawmakers to take real action to rein in healthcare profiteering and deliver the affordability, transparency, and accountability that public workers—and all New Jerseyans—deserve.”

Public sector union workers are fighting for common-sense cost control and solutions like claims auditing, enforcing existing contracts with insurance carriers, and fair pricing that would rein in the costs of care overall, generating enormous savings for the State, local governments, and workers.

“What’s not to like about this proposal?” asked New Jersey State AFL-CIO President Charles Wowkanech. “It has produced massive savings in other states and could save New Jersey taxpayers $1.1 billion annually. It helps to control ever-increasing property taxes by slowing down out-of-control increases in health insurance premiums for public employees. It provides much-needed relief to workers who, during a time of historic inflation, are seeing every penny of their raises get eaten up by double-digit increases in health insurance premiums. Considering the dire condition of the State Health Benefits Plan, I urge the legislature to pass this bill now,” he concluded.

“When we say healthcare, we mean justice. I stand with my brothers and sisters because together, we can make healthcare affordable, accessible, and equitable for everyone,” said Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson (District 15). “No one should have to choose between getting treatment and paying the mortgage, the rent, or the light bill. That’s why I show up. That’s why I fight! Let’s END Chapter 78 TOGETHER!”

“Healthcare costs in New Jersey have skyrocketed, and proposed federal Medicaid cuts would rip away healthcare from hundreds of thousands of New Jerseyans—especially children, seniors, and people with disabilities,” said Assemblyman Cody Miller (District 4). “No one should have to choose between putting food on the table and paying for their medicine or doctor’s visit. That’s why we’re fighting to pass legislation that puts patients before profits. We can make New Jersey a leader in affordable, quality healthcare for every resident.”

“The ever-increasing healthcare costs have devastating financial and emotional effects for our members in the State Benefits Health Program. New Jersey’s working families deserve better. Reference-based pricing in healthcare will provide a fair-market standard that ensures transparency, cost reduction, affordability, and quality healthcare,” said Susanna Tardi, Ph.D., the Executive Vice President of Higher Education, AFTNJ.

“The State needs to embrace the common-sense reforms that public sector unions have been offering for years,” said Steve Tully, AFSCME NJ Executive Director. “These reforms will ensure the long-term stability of the State Health Benefits Plan while making healthcare more affordable for workers and the taxpayers.”

“Healthcare is a human right, and New Jersey public workers need high-quality, affordable coverage to safeguard our health and the rest of the state,” said Christine O’Connell, President of the Union of Rutgers Administrators-American Federation of Teachers, Local 1766. “Public workers have provided countless practical solutions to lower healthcare costs. These common-sense reforms are reflected in the legislative proposal we are calling for today, which is fair for workers, good for the public, and will serve the state more efficiently and effectively than plans being developed by health insurance companies generating profit by denying preventative and necessary medical care.”

“Across New Jersey’s public colleges and universities, faculty—both full-time and part-time—dedicate themselves to the mission of higher education, often contingent workers putting in hours that match or exceed full-time roles. Yet too many are now forced to choose between keeping their healthcare and paying their bills. Premiums in the State Health Benefits Program have surged, putting enormous pressure on those who already qualify while leaving others, like adjunct faculty, completely priced out of access,” said Tom Raggio, Rutgers Adjunct Faculty Union. “Healthcare is not a luxury. It is a human right. This crisis exposes the broken structure of a system where workers who serve our students and institutions are either burdened by unaffordable costs or locked out entirely. We need bold reform—one that not only reins in rising premiums but ensures that all faculty, including adjuncts, are eligible for quality, affordable healthcare based on the work they do—not based on their ability to buy into the system at an unsustainable cost.”

“This legislation seeks to contain consumer pricing with no reduction in benefits, while increasing oversight and transparency at minimal cost to the state,” said HPAE President Debbie White. “It would help contain the spiraling costs of health insurance for our public workers.“

###

About CWA: The Communications Workers of America represents working people in telecommunications, customer service, media, airlines, health care, public service and education, manufacturing, tech, and other fields.

cwa-union.org @cwaunion

MIL OSI USA News –

June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: OSEP 84.325M FY2025 Grant Applicant Webinar PowerPoint Presentation

Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

This information session was designed for potential applicants interested in applying to the competition for the preparation of special education, early intervention and related services personnel at Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Tribally Controlled Colleges and Universities, and other Minority Serving Institutions. The assistance listing number is 84.325M. This competition falls under the Personal Development program, which is a discretionary grant program managed by the Office of Special Education Programs. This information session will provide you with information about applying for this grant opportunity that was posted in the Federal Register on May 27, 2025.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-gnDP5NCUG4

MIL OSI Video –

June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: OSEP 84.325D FY2025 Grant Applicant Webinar PowerPoint Presentation

Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

This information session was designed for potential applicants interested in applying to the competition for the preparation of special education and early intervention administrators. The assistance listing number is 84.325D. This competition falls under the personnel development to improve services and results for children with disabilities program, which is a discretionary grant program managed by the Office of Special Education Programs. The webinar will provide you with the information about applying for this grant opportunity that was posted in the Federal Register on Tuesday, May 27th, 2025.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9PomsNKpLF4

MIL OSI Video –

June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: OSEP 84.325K FY2025 Grant Applicant Webinar PowerPoint Presentation

Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

This information session was designed for potential applicants interested in applying to the competition for the interdisciplinary preparation of early intervention, special education and related services personnel serving children with high children with disabilities who have high intensity needs. The assistance listing number is 84.325K. This competition falls under the Personal Development program, which is a discretionary grant program managed by the Office of Special Education Programs. This information session will provide you with information about applying for this grant opportunity that was posted in the Federal Register on May 27, 2025.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kYWSFvrpJYw

MIL OSI Video –

June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Banking: Verizon Business launches Vehicle-to-Everything connected-driving platform with multiple customers
Source: Verizon

Headline: Verizon Business launches Vehicle-to-Everything connected-driving platform with multiple customers

Edge Transportation Exchange is an integrated mobile-network vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication platform that allows a vehicle to communicate with other connected vehicles, road users, and infrastructure around it. Volkswagen Group of America, The Arizona Commerce Authority, Delaware Department of Transportation, and Rutgers University CAIT are already signed on as commercial users.

What you need to know:
- Edge Transportation Exchange leverages Verizon’s 5G and LTE networks, low-latency mobile edge computing (MEC), and geolocation technology to send alerts, messages and data between connected vehicles and infrastructure in near real time.
- Acts as an ecosystem enabler, offering automakers, technology developers, and governments a foundation for the development of intelligent transportation use cases.
- Current use cases include vulnerable road user awareness, roadway and weather condition alerts, and intersection traffic-signal information to help improve traffic efficiency and enable safer road use.
- Uses a virtual architecture that reduces the need for costly physical roadside units, alleviating financial burdens for DOTs and municipal governments.
NEW YORK, NY — Verizon Business has commercially launched Edge Transportation Exchange, a mobile-network vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication platform for connected vehicles, with multiple customers already signed on. Following a successful 5G Automotive Association (5GAA) joint demonstration, the Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA), Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT), Rutgers University Center for Advanced Infrastructure and Transportation (CAIT), and Volkswagen Group of America (VW) have begun using the platform.

The Edge Transportation Exchange solution allows vehicles to communicate and share important data with each other, pedestrians, and connected roadway infrastructure such as traffic signals, in near real time. The 5GAA joint demonstration included use cases such as informing drivers about vulnerable road users, dangerous weather and roadway conditions, and traffic signal phase and timing at intersections.

In addition to these capabilities, Edge Transportation Exchange serves as an API-driven platform for collaborative innovation between automakers, technology developers, and municipal governments, who can leverage the mobile-network V2X technology to scale existing connected solutions or innovate new technology for road-user safety and satisfaction. Development and collaboration is convenient and centralized through the Verizon ThingSpace IoT platform.

“Cars are evolving from mechanical vehicles to software-defined mobile devices with the ability to leverage incredible connected technology. Edge Transportation Exchange leverages that technology to give automakers, governments, and tech developers a robust platform for building out the cellular-connected future of transportation — with visibility and reliability for all road users top of mind,” said Shamik Basu, Vice President, Strategic Connectivity & IoT, Verizon Business.

The robust integrated solution combines Verizon’s 5G and LTE mobile networks, Verizon 5G Edge mobile edge compute, and geolocation technology enhanced with Verizon Hyper Precise Location. It uses a virtual architecture that reduces the need for costly physical roadside radio units, alleviating financial burdens for DOTs and municipal governments. The data and communication capabilities from these combined technologies and environments contribute to a feature-rich, mobile network-based V2X ecosystem that users can leverage for near term applications and long term innovation at scale.

How Users are Deploying Edge Transportation Exchange

ACA was first to sign on as a platform partner for Edge Transportation Exchange, advancing from trial use to production. ACA is Arizona’s leading economic development organization, working collaboratively with the University of Arizona, the Arizona Department of Transportation, and the Maricopa County Department of Transportation and state and local agencies to develop new use cases and leverage existing ones — including pedestrian detection and upcoming work zone notifications — to make Arizona roadway users safer and better connected.

DelDOT is conducting technical testing across multiple communication technologies and architectures to optimize V2X message delivery. Primary use cases being studied include red-light warnings, water-on-road warnings, and vulnerable road user (VRU) alerts to drivers.

VW will explore use cases such as pedestrian awareness and payment applications for expedited tolling.

Rutgers University CAIT is deploying Edge Transportation Exchange at the DataCity Smart Mobility Testing Ground, a collaborative program with Middlesex County and in partnership with the New Jersey Department of Transportation. The 2.5-mile living laboratory is equipped with self-driving-grade sensing, computing, and V2X communication technologies to facilitate the testing of Connected and Automated Vehicle (CAV) and Smart City technologies. Rutgers CAIT is using the platform to further develop virtualized cellular messaging architectures for cost-effective support of multiple CAV applications, including intersection safety, congestion mitigation, queue warning, and incident and work zone management.

Rutgers CAIT is also researching school-zone safety applications, utilizing Edge Transportation Exchange to help deliver near real-time alerts to pedestrians and incoming vehicles at intersections with heavy school crossings, improving safety for K-12 students, their families, and crossing guards.
MIL OSI Global Banks –
June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Strengthening Alberta’s courts
Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)
Albertans deserve to have an efficient and accessible justice system when they bring matters to court. Appointing applications judges increases dedicated court capacity and ensures the Court of King’s Bench can resolve criminal, civil and family matters in a timely manner.

To strengthen the Court of King’s Bench and improve access to justice, Alberta’s government is appointing Stephanie Wanke in Edmonton, effective June 16, and Stephanie Latimer, KC, in Calgary, effective June 30, as applications judges to the Court of King’s Bench.

“Stephanie Wanke is an accomplished lawyer with considerable leadership experience and Stephanie Latimer has held senior roles with Alberta Justice for many years. I congratulate them both on their appointments and am confident they will bring value to the administration of justice in Alberta.”

Mickey Amery, Minister of Justice and Attorney General

Individuals appointed to the bench must have at least 10 years at the bar and are recommended through a rigorous review process by an Applications Judge Interview Panel. They are then approved by the Alberta Judicial Council. There are currently eight applications judges, making a total of 10 with these new appointments.

“The work of applications judges is essential to the effective and efficient operation of the Court of King’s Bench of Alberta. Our two new applications judges will play a pivotal role in enhancing access to justice and ensuring more timely resolution of civil disputes. With congratulations, we welcome Applications Judges Wanke and Latimer and look forward to their contributions to strengthening the Rule of Law in Alberta.”

Kent H. Davidson, chief justice, Court of King’s Bench of Alberta

Stephanie A. Wanke received a bachelor of laws from the University of Alberta in 2005 after completing a bachelor of arts in political science from the same institution in 2002. She is currently the senior legal editor for the insolvency and restructuring service at Practical Law Canada, a division of Thomson Reuters. She began her legal career as an articling student at Bennett Jones LLP in 2005, practising commercial transactions before transitioning to insolvency law in 2011. She has acted for debtors, creditors and court officers in complex restructuring and bankruptcy matters during nearly a decade of private practice, including as a partner at Miller Thomson LLP.

Stephanie C. Latimer, KC, received a bachelor of laws from the University of Alberta in 1992 and a bachelor of arts (honours) from the University of Saskatchewan in 1989. She was appointed Vice President Law and Associate General Counsel at the Alberta Energy Regulator in 2022, where she led the Law Branch and provided valuable strategic legal advice to leadership. Before that, she spent 13 years with Alberta Justice, where she held various leadership roles including director of the Constitutional and Aboriginal Law Team. She previously served as legal counsel for Justice Canada and as a presiding justice of the peace.

Quick facts
- Applications judges are part of the Court of King’s Bench and are funded and appointed by the province.
- Applications judges were known as “masters in chambers” until September 2022, when the title was modernized to reflect their specific role in handling applications and procedural matters.
- Applications judges deal with matters regarding civil law, maintenance enforcement, foreclosures, bankruptcy, residential tenancy disputes and builders’ liens.
Related information
- Alberta Court of King’s Bench
Related news
- New applications judge for Court of King’s Bench (March 14, 2023)
- New master for Court of Queen’s Bench (Sept. 1, 2020)
- New appointment in Court of Queen’s Bench (Oct. 10, 2019)
MIL OSI Canada News –
June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Bringing High-Tech Manufacturing Jobs to New York

Source: US State of New York

overnor Kathy Hochul today announced that Orbic Electronics Manufacturing, LLC, a specialized global manufacturer of telecommunications and consumer electronics devices, has broken ground on its new $110 million manufacturing global hub at 555 Wireless Boulevard in Hauppauge, Suffolk County. This project is expected to create more than 1,000 new high-tech and skilled manufacturing jobs, retain 66 existing positions currently based in Suffolk County, and will bring Orbic’s complete manufacturing and production operations from overseas facilities in India and China to its New York-based Headquarters. Empire State Development is supporting this landmark reshoring initiative with up to $10 million in performance-based Excelsior Jobs Tax Credits, recommended by the Long Island Regional Economic Development Council. The groundbreaking marks a pivotal moment in Long Island’s manufacturing sector and establishes New York as a national leader in rebuilding America’s critical technology supply chains.

“Today’s groundbreaking at Orbic Electronics represents the future we’re building across New York State — one where companies choose to invest, innovate, and create good-paying jobs right here at home,” Governor Hochul said. “This $110 million investment proves that when businesses want to lead in advanced manufacturing, they turn to New York. From Long Island to the North Country, we’re seeing companies recognize that our state offers the perfect combination of skilled workers, world-class infrastructure, and strategic support that makes success inevitable. With projects like this, we are proving that New York doesn’t just compete — we lead.”

Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Orbic’s investment is a bold step forward for high-tech manufacturing in New York State. By choosing to grow in Hauppauge, Orbic is deepening its roots in a region known for its talent, infrastructure, and innovation potential. At Empire State Development, we are proud to support this strategic reshoring initiative, which will bring over a thousand jobs to the region while fortifying our state’s position in the global technology economy. Projects like this reflect our core mission — supporting smart, inclusive economic growth that creates lasting opportunity for New Yorkers in every corner of the state.”

Empire State Development Board Chairman Kevin Law said, “This groundbreaking represents a major milestone for Long Island and a turning point for advanced manufacturing in the region. Orbic’s expansion is proof that Long Island has everything companies need to thrive — from a highly skilled workforce and strong transportation networks to a vibrant ecosystem of research institutions and community partners. The company’s decision to invest more than $100 million here is not only a testament to our regional strengths, but a signal to the broader industry that Long Island is ready to lead in 21st-century manufacturing.”

Orbic CEO Mike Narula said, “This project marks an exciting milestone for Orbic and a powerful step forward for high-tech manufacturing on Long Island and New York State. This effort underscores our commitment to producing high-quality, American-made technology while supporting local vendors and strengthening the regional economy by bringing more than 1,000 new manufacturing jobs to the region from overseas. We are proud to grow in New York and to contribute to the state’s innovation economy, and we thank Governor Hochul and Empire State Development for their leadership, vision and invaluable support. Their dedication to building a prosperous New York has made a lasting impact on our company’s future, and we are deeply grateful for their partnership.”

State Senator Mario Mattera said, “The past few years have clearly shown the importance of our region becoming more self-sufficient. This significant project will help advance that goal while strengthening our economy and creating valuable opportunities for the local workforce. Long Island is home to some of the most hardworking and skilled men and women and the addition of over 1,000 jobs will enable them to work and stay on right here in our community. I commend Orbic for their commitment to Long Island and look forward to their continued success at this new facility.”

Assemblymember Michael Fitzpatrick said, “The arrival of Orbic’s $110 million manufacturing hub marks a significant step forward for Long Island’s economy. Creating over 1,000 skilled jobs and bringing production back to the U.S. strengthens our local workforce, benefits families across the region and will breathe new life into Long Island’s manufacturing sector. I am thankful to Governor Hochul and Empire State Development for making this transformative investment possible.”

Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine said, “We are grateful for Orbic’s decision to build their business in Suffolk County. This important project creates jobs and opportunities, helping Suffolk grow, and we look forward to seeing Orbic flourish.”

Smithtown Supervisor Ed Wehrheim said, “We are incredibly proud to see Orbic choose Smithtown as the home for this transformative investment. This is more than just bringing high-tech manufacturing jobs back to the U.S. — it’s about bringing them back to our community. Orbic’s expansion supports the Governor and the State’s goal of targeted investment, positioning New York as the premier East Coast destination for next-generation tech companies by leveraging our skilled workforce and innovation ecosystem. This move not only strengthens our regional economy and supports local families — it also puts Smithtown on the map as a hub for smart growth, forward-thinking development, and long-term opportunity. I commend the Governor and Orbic’s leadership for making this vision a reality.”

Orbic, established in 2016 and headquartered in Hauppauge, Long Island, offers a comprehensive portfolio of technology 4G and 5G connected devices and related products, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, smartwatches, mobile hotspots, routers and accessories, catering to both consumer and enterprise customers and markets. In response to global supply chain challenges and increasing demand for domestically produced technology, Orbic launched a strategic initiative to relocate its manufacturing operations to the United States. As part of this effort, Orbic is investing approximately $110 million to renovate and retrofit a 69,500-square-foot existing facility and add an additional 75,000 square-feet, totaling 144,500 square feet. Once complete, the advanced manufacturing center will feature state-of-the-art surface mount technology (SMT) lines, automated testing stations, precision assembly lines, and cleanroom environments to support high-volume, high-quality production. Completion of construction and start of manufacturing is expected in early 2026.

The newly renovated production facility will be designed to manufacture up to five million devices annually — including smartphones, tablets, wearables, and networking equipment — meeting the needs of both consumer and enterprise customers. The new jobs being created will range from manufacturing technicians and quality assurance specialists to logistics personnel, engineers and support staff. Its location within the Hauppauge Industrial Park, one of the largest industrial parks in the Northeast, offers proximity to skilled labor, major transportation networks, and Orbic’s existing corporate offices, further enhancing operational efficiency and workforce integration.

A key component of Orbic Electronics’ investment is its focus on workforce development to ensure a robust pipeline of skilled talent for its operations. Orbic will collaborate with Suffolk County Community College and Queensborough Community College to create specialized training programs focused on advanced electronics manufacturing, including circuit board assembly, quality control, testing procedures, and advanced manufacturing processes. The partnership will not only support Orbic’s operational needs but also create a pipeline of skilled workers for Long Island’s growing advanced manufacturing industry. By integrating education and industry, these initiatives strengthen Long Island’s workforce, enhance its economic resilience, and position the region as a hub for advanced manufacturing innovation.

LIREDC Co-Chairs Linda Armyn, President and CEO at Bethpage Federal Credit Union, and Dr. Kimberly R. Cline, President of Long Island University, said, “Orbic’s decision to locate and grow its advanced manufacturing operations on Long Island is a direct result of thoughtful regional collaboration, strategic workforce partnerships, and a shared commitment to economic growth. By working with local colleges to train the next generation of high-tech talent, this project is helping ensure that the benefits of investment reach deep into our communities. The LIREDC is proud to support projects like this — ones that create sustainable jobs, foster innovation, and position our region as a long-term leader in advanced electronics and connected technologies.”

Orbic’s reshoring of its manufacturing operations to New York State exemplifies Governor Hochul’s comprehensive strategy to revitalize New York’s manufacturing sector and establish the state as a national leader in advanced production. Under her administration, New York has secured transformative manufacturing investments including Chobani’s $100 million expansion in the Mohawk Valley, IBM’s multi-billion dollar semiconductor research initiatives, Micron Technology’s historic $100 billion semiconductor facility in Central New York — the largest private investment in state history — and numerous other reshoring projects that have created thousands of jobs statewide. The Governor’s focus on workforce development, supply chain resilience, and robust support for minority and women-owned businesses has positioned New York as the premier destination for companies seeking to bring critical manufacturing operations back to America. This latest investment in Long Island’s advanced manufacturing ecosystem demonstrates how strategic state partnerships can catalyze transformative economic development that strengthens communities, secures supply chains, and advances America’s technological competitiveness on the global stage.

MIL OSI USA News –

June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Hawley Takes Liberal Professor to Task for Flip-Flopping on Injunctions Stance

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo)

Wednesday, June 04, 2025

In a joint Senate Judiciary subcommittee hearing, U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) took Kate Shaw, a professor at the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School, to task over her double standard for nationwide injunctions issued against the Trump Administration versus those against the Biden Administration. Senator Hawley repeatedly called out Shaw for lacking a “principle” to guide her legal opinion regarding when nationwide injunctions constitute the appropriate remedy for a legal dispute.

Libs thought nationwide injunctions were a “travesty for principles of democracy” – when Joe Biden was in office
But now they LOVE them.
What changed? TRUMP. Once again: the rule of law should be blind. Not blinded by rage. pic.twitter.com/9PEJmyhzF0
— Josh Hawley (@HawleyMO) June 3, 2025

The hearing was jointly hosted by the Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution and the Judiciary Subcommittee on Federal Courts, Oversight, Agency Action, and Federal Rights.
Earlier this year, Senator Hawley introduced legislation to end liberal judges’ serial abuse of power by banning nationwide injunctions.
Watch the full committee hearing here.

MIL OSI USA News –

June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: NASA, ISRO Research Aboard Fourth Private Astronaut Mission to Station

Source: NASA

NASA and ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) are collaborating to launch scientific investigations aboard Axiom Mission 4, the fourth private astronaut mission to the International Space Station. These studies include examining muscle regeneration, growth of sprouts and edible microalgae, survival of tiny aquatic organisms, and human interaction with electronic displays in microgravity.
The mission is targeted to launch no earlier than Tuesday, June 10, aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft on the company’s Falcon 9 rocket from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

During long-duration spaceflights, astronauts lose muscle mass, and their muscle cells’ regenerative ability declines. Researchers suspect this may happen because microgravity interferes with metabolism in mitochondria, tiny structures within cells that produce energy. The Myogenesis-ISRO investigation uses muscle stem cell cultures to examine the muscle repair process and test chemicals known to support mitochondrial function. Results could lead to interventions that maintain muscle health during long-duration space missions, help people on Earth with age-related muscle loss and muscle-wasting diseases, and assist athletes and people recovering from surgery.

The Sprouts-ISRO investigation looks at the germination and growth in microgravity of seeds from greengram and fenugreek, nutritious plants commonly eaten on the Indian subcontinent. Bioactive compounds in fenugreek seeds also have therapeutic properties, and the leaves contain essential vitamins and minerals. Learning more about how space affects the genetics, nutritional content, and other characteristics over multiple generations of plants could inform the development of ways for future missions to reliably produce plants as a food source.

Space Microalgae-ISRO studies how microgravity affects microalgae growth and genetics. Highly digestible microalgae species packed with nutrients could be a food source on future space missions. These organisms also grow quickly, produce energy and oxygen, and consume carbon dioxide, traits that could be employed in life support and fuel systems on spacecraft and in certain scenarios on Earth.

Tardigrades are tiny aquatic organisms that can tolerate extreme conditions on Earth. Voyager Tardigrade-ISRO tests the survival of a strain of tardigrades in the harsh conditions of space, including cosmic radiation and ultra-low temperatures, which kill most life forms. Researchers plan to revive dormant tardigrades, count the number of eggs laid and hatched during the mission, and compare the gene expression patterns of populations in space and on the ground. Results could help identify what makes these organisms able to survive extreme conditions and support development of technology to protect astronauts on future missions and those in harsh environments on Earth.

Research shows that humans interact with touchscreen devices differently in space. Voyager Displays – ISRO examines how spaceflight affects interactions with electronic displays such as pointing tasks, gaze fixation, and rapid eye movements along with how these interactions affect the user’s feelings of stress or wellbeing. Results could support improved design of control devices for spacecraft and habitats on future space missions as well as for aviation and other uses on Earth.
Download high-resolution photos and videos of the research mentioned in this article.

MIL OSI USA News –

June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Trimble

Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

Headline: Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Trimble

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Trimble

FRANKFORT, Ky

–A Disaster Recovery Center has opened in Trimble County to offer in-person support to Kentucky uninsured and underinsured survivors who experienced loss as the result of the April severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides

The new Disaster Recovery Center in Trimble County is located at: Trimble County Board of Education, 116 Wentworth Avenue, Bedford, KY 40006Working hours are 9 a

m

to 7 p

m

Eastern Time, Monday through Saturday and 1 – 7 p

m

Eastern Time, Sunday

Disaster Recovery Centers are one-stop shops where you can get information and advice on available assistance from state, federal and community organizations

You can get help to apply for FEMA assistance, learn the status of your FEMA application, understand the letters you get from FEMA and get referrals to agencies that may offer other assistance

The U

S

Small Business Administration representatives and resources from the Commonwealth are also available at the Disaster Recovery Centers to assist you

FEMA is encouraging Kentuckians affected by the April storms to apply for federal disaster assistance as soon as possible

The deadline to apply is June 25

You can visit any Disaster Recovery Center to get in-person assistance

No appointment is needed

To find all other center locations, including those in other states, go to fema

gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362

You don’t have to visit a center to apply for FEMA assistance

There are other ways to apply: online at DisasterAssistance

gov, use the FEMA App for mobile devices or call 800-621-3362

If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service

When you apply, you will need to provide:A current phone number where you can be contacted

Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying

Your Social Security Number

A general list of damage and losses

Banking information if you choose direct deposit

If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name

For more information about Kentucky flooding recovery, visit www

fema

gov/disaster/4860 and www

fema

gov/disaster/4864

Follow the FEMA Region 4 X account at x

com/femaregion4

martyce

allenjr
Wed, 06/04/2025 – 17:47

MIL OSI USA News –

June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Pro-radical Islam teaching in Pakistan – E-001984/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-001984/2025/rev.1
to the Commission
Rule 144
Emmanouil Fragkos (ECR)

Teaching in Pakistani schools has been widely criticised for its ideological manipulation in favour of radical Islam. School textbooks contain one-dimensional narratives that emphasise Islamic identity over historical facts about the origin of Pakistanis from ancestors with different religions. In secondary school history books, Hindus are often presented as oppressive enemies of Muslims, while the actual multi-faith past of the region that is now Pakistan is obscured. In Islamic studies courses, jihad is overemphasised as a concept of ‘religious duty’. This approach fosters intolerance and limits critical thinking.

Pakistani schools are a tool for the political and religious manipulation of the unwilling masses and their weaponisation in favour of Islamist goals, internationally. Educational reform in Pakistan is an essential prerequisite for international peace and security. Relevant recommendations from UNESCO and Human Rights Watch, concerning basic requirements for education in Pakistan, are not taken into account.

In view of this:

1.Does the Commission consider that the educational reality in Pakistan should be given serious consideration before Member States accept Pakistanis, with or without ‘labour’ agreements, ultimately endangering our citizens?

2.Has the Commission monitored whether resolutions 2012/2843(RSP) and 2015/2515(RSP) have been taken into account in any way?

3.If not, how could the Commission exert pressure on Pakistan to implement basic educational reform, so that at least it does not promote Islamic fundamentalism?

Submitted: 16.5.2025
Last updated: 4 June 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Lack of housing on the Greek islands and the impact on the provision of essential public services – need for EU support and coordinated action – E-002095/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002095/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Sakis Arnaoutoglou (S&D)

During the tourist season, many Greek islands face a serious housing problem, as increased demand for tourist accommodation leads to a lack of available housing for long-term rental. This makes finding accommodation extremely difficult for public servants, such as doctors, teachers, teachers and seasonal firefighters, who are called upon to serve in these areas.

In particular, on the islands of the Northern Sporades, firefighters have resigned as they were unable to find accommodation or reasonable rents.

The housing problem affects critical sectors such as health and education, as workers find it difficult to find adequate and affordable housing. This situation undermines the ability of local authorities to provide essential services and respond to emergencies, especially in the current context of the climate crisis and increased tourist pressure.

Can the Commission therefore answer the following:

1.How does it intend to support, through existing funding tools, Member States with meeting critical housing needs for public servants in island and remote areas?

2.Does it intend to reinforce the eligible actions under the regional programmes to include accommodation and temporary accommodation infrastructure for staff of key public services, such as healthcare, teachers and firefighters, in frontline areas?

3.Will it consider setting up a European preparedness mechanism in island and tourist areas to systematically record housing shortages, allow a rapid response and substantiate the need for additional funding?

Submitted: 26.5.2025
Last updated: 4 June 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Democratic legitimacy and involving school student unions at EU level – E-001200/2025(ASW)
Source: European Parliament
The Organising Bureau of European School Student Unions (OBESSU) is funded through the Erasmus+ programme. This aligns with the programme’s goals to promote youth participation, citizenship and inclusive, high-quality education and training.

Funding decisions are based on the extent to which an organisation’s activities align with the objectives and priorities of the programme. The Commission is not in a position to assess the organisational structure or internal decision-making rules of an organisation.

According to EU law, the content of education and the organisation of the national educational systems (including the development and organisation of student representation) fall within Member States’ competence. The Commission does therefore not intend to establish a pan-European school student union.

However, the Commission will encourage OBESSU to expand by including more national school student unions in their membership.

We note and welcome that a goal of OBESSU in their Development Strategy 2025-2029 is to ‘expand the membership to new countries in a sustainable way’.

The Commission will also encourage Member States to establish democratic school student representation structures in order to strengthen student voice in decisions related to education.

Furthermore, the Commission promotes democratic school student and youth representation structures through the EU Youth Stakeholders Group[1]. OBESSU is one of the organisational members of the Group[2]. Other members include the European Students’ Union (ESU) and the European Democrat Students (EDS).

All EU national youth councils are members of the Group. Students take part in individual or organisational capacity in many of the actions of the Commission dedicated to young people, among them the youth policy dialogues with Commissioners[3] and the EU Youth Dialogue[4].

[1] https://youth.europa.eu/strategy/euyouthstrategygroup_en.

[2] https://youth.europa.eu/sites/default/files/inline-files/EU-Youth-Stakeholders-Group—List-of-selected-organisations_en_0.pdf.

[3] https://youth.europa.eu/youth-policy/dialogues_en.

[4] https://youth.europa.eu/eu-youth-dialogue_en.
Last updated: 4 June 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Nadler and Rep. Wilson Reintroduce Bill Providing a Tax Credit to Living Organ Donors

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

Yesterday, Representatives Jerrold Nadler (D-NY) and Joe Wilson (R-SC) reintroduced the Living Organ Donor Tax Credit Act. The bill will provide up to a $5,000 one-time refundable tax credit to living organ donors who were not reimbursed for the costs related to organ donation by the National Living Organ Donor Assistance Center (NLDAC) or any entity.

Our nation’s transplant shortage is dire. Seventeen people die every day waiting for a viable organ according to the Health Resources and Services Administration. Currently, there are around 93,000 Americans on the kidney transplant waitlist, with some having to wait as long as six years to receive a transplant, according to UNOS. Patients waiting for a transplant on average cost the U.S. government at least $77,000 a year on dialysis, which adds up to more than $20 billion a year according to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Removing the barriers to organ donation will not only increase the number of living donors therefore saving lives, but also will save the taxpayers money. This tax credit would apply to living kidney, liver, lung, pancreas, intestine, bone marrow donors, and any other viable living organ donation.

“When an organ donor decides to donate one of their organs to someone else, they aren’t just saving someone’s life—they’re making one of the most selfless, difficult decisions anyone could ever make,” said Rep. Nadler. “However, donors can face tremendous and often prohibitive costs associated with surgery, including the cost of travel, lodging, follow up care, and lost wages in connection to transplantation. That’s why I’m proud to introduce this bill with Rep. Wilson and continue my work to remove roadblocks to organ donation.”

“The gift of living donation is truly priceless. The donors who choose the selfless act of giving a lifesaving organ are making a major life decision, whether gifting to a stranger or a loved one. That lifechanging decision should not be burdened by the costs of donation, and this bill will remove that disincentive to ensure that everyone is able to donate an organ if they choose to, regardless of their financial situation,” said Rep. Wilson. “My predecessor House Armed Services Committee Chairman Floyd Spence miraculously received a double lung transplant as the thirtieth in the world to receive the experiment, living an additional 13 years serving America. We are always grateful for Dr. Sesshadri Raju at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson, Mississippi for performing the procedure in 1988. I previously worked in the South Carolina State Senate to add a red heart for organ donors to South Carolina Driver’s Licenses at the time of registration. Today, I am grateful to expand this piece of Floyd Spence’s legacy.”

The bill has been endorsed by the American Association of Kidney Patients, American Kidney Fund (AKF), American Nephrology Nurses Association (ANNA), American Society of Pediatric Nephrology (ASPN), American Society of Transplant Surgeons (ASTS), American Society of Transplantation (AST), Coalition to Modify NOTA, National Kidney Donation Organization (NKDO), National Kidney Foundation (NKF), Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) Foundation, Renal Support Network (RSN), and Waitlist Zero.

“We need better public policy to increase living organ donation. The Living Organ Donor Tax Credit Act of 2025 represents a positive step forward in helping people who selflessly decide to give the gift of life by donating a kidney by providing a refundable tax credit for associated costs of live organ donation such as lost wages, travel or childcare. People with limited resources should have every opportunity to help save a life,” said LaVarne A. Burton, President and CEO of the American Kidney Fund.

“The American Society of Pediatric Nephrology (ASPN) applauds the reintroduction of the Living Organ Donor Tax Credit Act by Representatives Jerry Nadler (D-NY) and Joe Wilson (R-SC). Rates of living kidney donation are declining in the US in both the pediatric and adult populations. This decline persists despite the fact that living donor kidney transplant is well established as the optimal treatment for children and adults with end stage kidney disease due to superior graft and patient survival. This important legislation will encourage living donors and we urge its swift passage,” said President Meredith Atkinson of the American Society of Pediatric Nephrology (ASPN).

     “On behalf of the American Society of Transplantation (AST), representing a majority of the nation’s transplant professionals, our Society strongly applauds and endorses the re-introduction of the Living Organ Donor Tax Credit Act. AST is grateful for the steadfast leadership of Congressmen Nadler (D-NY) and Wilson (R-SC) to protect and support living donation. The Living Donor Tax Credit Act is a patient-focused bill seeking to address financial and policy barriers that might otherwise prevent an individual from providing a lifesaving donor organ. AST greatly appreciates this bipartisan and patient centric legislation. We look forward to working with you to advance this key legislation in this 119th Congress,” said Dr. Jon Kobashigawa, President of the American Society of Transplantation (AST).

     “The National Kidney Foundation strongly supports the Living Organ Donor Tax Credit Act as an important step toward removing financial barriers to living donation. This legislation provides tax relief solely for documented, unreimbursed expenses actually incurred by the donor—costs like child/elder care, travel, and lost income. Living donors often face unexpected costs that can reach thousands of dollars, and these expenses should never prevent someone from saving a life. By allowing tax credits for legitimate expenses while maintaining strict documentation requirements, this bill supports donors without compromising the altruistic foundation of organ donation that the National Kidney Foundation has always championed. We applaud Reps. Nadler and Wilson for their leadership and urge Congress to pass this measure that will help save lives while preserving the integrity of our transplant system,” said Kevin Longino, CEO, National Kidney Foundation and a transplant recipient.

     “There’s currently no cure for PKD, and while we await scientific breakthroughs, organ donation remains the most effective long-term treatment,” said Susan Bushnell, President and CEO of the Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) Foundation. “This common-sense, compassionate, and cost-effective policy to reimburse living donors for some of the costs of donation will help to remove needless financial barriers, save more lives, and reduce the burden on our federal health system by decreasing reliance on costly, time-consuming, and often unpleasant dialysis treatments. The PKD Foundation is deeply grateful for the longtime leadership of Representatives Nadler and Wilson in championing living donation,” said Susan Bushnell, PKDF’s President & CEO.

“Living donors are true heroes who should not incur financial losses for the life-saving gift they provide. A tax credit is a straightforward method to acknowledge their generosity while simplifying the reimbursement process,” said Lori Hartwell, President & Founder of RSN and kidney transplant recipient.

     “Why should donors go into debt to give the gift of life? Representative Nadler and Representative Wilson’s Living Organ Donor Tax Credit Act will ease the financial strain and empower more people to say yes to donation. For the past 25 years, the number of living kidney donors has remained stagnant. Waitlist Zero proudly supports this crucial bill,” said Elaine Perlman, Executive Director of Waitlist Zero and President of the Coalition to Modify NOTA.

A copy of the legislation can be found here.

MIL OSI USA News –

June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy announces $6.8 million in Hurricane Ida aid for Houma schools

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)
WASHINGTON – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced a $6,764,854 Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) grant for the Terrebonne Parish School Board.
“Hurricane Ida hit Houma hard, but the community has worked tirelessly to rebuild. This $6.8 million grant will help cover the costs of demolishing, relocating and renovating school facilities due to severe damage from the storm,” said Kennedy.
The FEMA aid will fund the following:
$6,764,854 to the Terrebonne Parish School Board to relocate the Hurricane Ida-damaged Louis Miller Vo-Tech campus to its Fletcher Building in Houma, La., and demolish its Ida-damaged School for Exceptional Children facility and renovate its existing Elysian Fields campus.

MIL OSI USA News –

June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New St Clements School co-location statutory consultation

Source: Scotland – Highland Council

Members of the Education Committee met today (Wednesday 4 June) and agreed the recommendation to proceed with the statutory public consultation for the co-location of the new St Clement’s School alongside a new Dingwall Primary School on a shared site with enhanced community facilities.

A public meeting will be held on Wednesday 2 July to discuss the Council’s proposal. There will also be the opportunity for stakeholders to submit views to the Council ahead of the meeting and subsequently prior to any final recommendation and decision being made.

At a meeting of The Highland Council on Thursday 27 March 2024, elected members unanimously agreed investment priorities for the first phase of The Highland Investment Plan (HIP), including a recommendation to co-locate St Clement’s and Dingwall Primary schools at a new Dingwall Community Point of Delivery (POD) site, on the basis that this provides the greatest educational benefits for pupils of both schools, and the maximum economic benefit for the wider community. The proposal to relocate St Clement’s School alongside a new Dingwall Primary School on a shared site will require to undergo a statutory consultation.

Education Committee Chair, Cllr John Finlayson said: “The commitment to build a new school that retains the school’s unique identity has been endorsed by Committee today. The Highland Investment Plan offers an exciting co-location option that has even greater benefits for our young learners than any other previously proposed.

“The strong collaborative working between St Clement’s School, Dingwall Primary and the wider Dingwall community has always played an integral part in our young people’s learning journey. Co-locating will enhance inclusion and equitable opportunities for success, providing the best learning environments for all our children.

“It will increase opportunities for pupils with a disability to participate in wider curriculum and social opportunities, whilst ensuring specialist support and facilities are tailored to individual needs in their own individually designed standalone school and associated outdoor spaces.

“A statutory consultation will now be undertaken for the proposed new site for St Clement’s School.”

The consultation will begin on 9 June 2025 and will end on 3 October 2025. This period allows for the statutory minimum of six weeks, including at least thirty school days.

A public meeting will be held at 6:30pm on Wednesday 2 July at St Clement’s School with an opportunity to attend virtually for those unable to be there in person.

A consultant architect with extensive experience of designing special schools and additional support needs facilities has been engaged to assist with the development of the new St Clement’s School project brief and initial floor plans and external layouts have been prepared. A series of design workshops will be held with stakeholder groups in the coming weeks to establish a clear vision for the new school. This will ensure that it provides first-rate facilities to meet the needs of every child that will attend St Clement’s in the future and maximise the benefits to be realised.

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Education update and positive destinations for our school leavers

Source: Scotland – Highland Council

The Highland Council, Education Committee met today (Wednesday 4 June 2025) and received a comprehensive overview of recent developments in the Education and Learning Service, including positive school leaver destinations and an update on the refreshed attainment strategy and the Education and Learning management restructure.

Education Committee Chair, Cllr John Finlayson said: “The set of reports presented to us today, show positive steps in the educational journey of all our learners across Highland and the positive contribution they will bring as part of our ‘Workforce for the Future’ ambitions.

“The last few months, has been as is always expected at this time of year, challenging for our senior phase learners as they have prepared for and taken their SQA exams, finalised apprenticeships and completed portfolios and module-based learning. I commend the pupils and staff for all their efforts and hope that as we draw near to the school summer holidays, pupils take some down time to reflect on what they do next in terms of learning, life and work.

“It is encouraging to see the positive destination statistics for our school leavers be that in employment, education, or training, which have produced the most positive figures we have seen in the last 5 years with 96.5% of 2,692 pupils achieving sustained destinations on leaving school.”

Cllr Finlayson added: “A refreshed attainment strategy with input from central officers, headteachers, and unions has positively progressed since our February Education Committee, and its strategic focus and workstreams will be discussed at our head teachers conference.

“At Committee today, we also received an update on the Education and Learning management restructure, a new area-based model with 8 operational areas. The changes deliver a simplified and streamlined structure, providing clear lines of responsibility and accountability.

“Improving outcomes for all our Highland learners remains a key priority and all of today’s reports outline the continued vision and commitment of The Highland Council’s Education and Learning Service and that of our partner services to move positively forward on our journey to excellence.”

The report can be accessed here (Item 11)

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Integrated Children Services Planning Board – Annual Update

Source: Scotland – Highland Council

At the Education Committee on Wednesday 4 June, Members were presented with the Integrated Children Services Plan Annual Report 2024/25.

The Integrated Children’s Service’s work continues as it enters the 3rd year of the delivery of the Integrated Children’s Service Plan. The report highlights the continued progress that has been made in 2024/25. The work of the Integrated Children Services Board has continued to be strengthened through the delivery groups and strong partnership across services and in all sectors.

The plan has been developed in collaboration with public sector bodies and third sector organisations and is informed by both the voice and testimony of children, young people and families and the needs of our communities as articulated through our Joint Strategic Needs Assessment (2023). The annual report details the significant work that has been undertaken by the delivery groups in progressing the priorities and change ideas.

Education Committee Chair, Cllr John Finlayson said: “Listening and learning from the views and experience of children, young people and their families is key to continuing to deliver an effective and relevant Integrated Children’s Services.

“We all have a duty and responsibility to support our communities in Highland, I along with my fellow Members recognise the importance of engaging with all partners, third sector, public and community groups to continue to improve the future prosperity and safety of the children living in Highland.

“This well supported plan demonstrates the exemplary wealth of professionals we have across Highland who are committed to integrating skills, experience and expertise to improve outcomes for children, young people and their families. The plan articulates how partners work together to provide services which are organised, equipped to deliver high-quality, joined-up, trauma-informed, responsive and preventative support to children and families.”

The programme supports a whole family approach that is family and person centred, with a strong emphasis on reducing inequalities and improving outcomes for children, young people and their families, by strengthening supports for families, to reduce crisis and family breakdown and to meet ‘The Promise’ in Highland. It also sets clear indicators for monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of children’s services in terms of their success in responding to and addressing children’s wellbeing needs.

The full report is available here (Item 12).

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Supporting behaviour in Schools

Source: Scotland – Highland Council

At today’s Education Committee (Wednesday 4 June), Members noted the evidence base that supports the approach taken in Highland to address relationship and behaviour issues in our schools and agreed the actions being taken to ensure practice across Highland is in line with national recommendations.

The 2023/4 national Behaviour in Scottish Schools survey and subsequent report (BISSR) indicated a difference to behaviour in schools from the previous report (2016) and cited the significant impact of COVID-19 on overall attendance and behaviour in schools and communities across Scotland.

The BISSR findings identify that most children can manage school well most or all of the time, however the evidence identifies an increase in classroom disruption and in physical and verbal aggression.

Education Committee Chair, Cllr John Finlayson said: “To better reflect the relationships and behaviours across our Highland schools, we recently conducted an extensive school staff survey which gathered in-depth information about the behavioural barriers, indicating that low-level disruptive behaviour remains the thing that causes most impact in pre-school and infant classrooms.

“Last school session less than 2% of children were involved in reported staff/pupil incidents. In many cases their language, communication and cognitive skills were poorly developed. The age where there is the highest level of pupil-staff incidents in Highland is Primary One (28% of incidents are recorded in relation to 3-5 year olds). Our understanding of this is that very young children haven’t yet developed their language skills or understanding of social situations to enable them to communicate their needs well. After Primary One the number of reported incidents significantly reduce, indicating the developmental nature of this issue in primary schools.

“Ongoing training and staff support is regularly offered by the Council’s Psychological Service to help support the wellbeing of teaching and support staff at all levels and to aid them in understanding and intervening in relation to dysregulated and distressed behaviour.

“In the recent staff survey, staff were asked what successes they had in supporting dysregulated and distressed children. The greatest number of responses related to providing safe, quiet spaces where children regulate and find calm, often helped by a knowledgeable member of staff with whom they already have a relationship.

“Work continues to improve pre-school and infant school pupils’ development skills, to enable young children to effectively communicate with peers and staff and over time reduce dysregulation and low level disruptive behavioural patterns forming in school settings.”

To support staff, Highland Council has a Positive Relationships Framework and Guidance that is in line with the requirements of the Scottish Government policy landscape. Our Framework has drawn together relevant research and educational thinking. It promotes a more relationship-based approach, with a focus on self-regulation and co-regulation, which we know is effective in creating calm and respectful early years settings, classrooms and schools.

To read the report, click the link here (Item 10).

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Questions Witnesses On Nationwide Injunctions During Senate Judiciary Joint Subcommittee Hearing

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
June 03, 2025
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today questioned witnesses during a Senate Judiciary Joint Subcommittee hearing entitled “The Supposedly ‘Least Dangerous Branch’: District Judges v. Trump.” Durbin first asked the witnesses about nationwide injunctions. Last month, the Supreme Court heard oral arguments in Trump v. CASA. In that case, the justices are considering whether they should stay the district courts’ nationwide preliminary injunctions against the Trump Administration’s executive order that attempted to end birthright citizenship. During his question, Durbin echoed a hypothetical posted by Justice Sotomayor during the case’s oral arguments.
“She [Justice Sotomayor] said, and I’m paraphrasing: imagine a new president takes office and decides, because of the epidemic of gun violence in our country, to issue an executive order announcing that he will deploy the military to seize the guns of every gun owner across the country. That executive order would be swiftly challenged in a federal district court—or, more likely, in several district courts. Should a district court be allowed to issue a nationwide injunction to at least temporarily prevent the enforcement of that executive order?” Durbin asked.
Josh Blackman, a professor at the South Texas College of Law, responded that he did not think the remedy would be in the courts. Kate Shaw, a professor at the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School, responded, “whatever the Constitutional right is… if a president tries to do something that is in clear violation of settled law… an injunction is an appropriate remedy.” Joel Alicea, a professor at the Catholic University of America Columbus School of Law, responded, “I don’t think a judge could issue a universal injunction under those circumstances.”
“Do you think it is reasonable to expect every single person affected by an executive order, like the one I described, to seek relief through Rule 23 or to file their own lawsuit to seek relief?” Durbin asked.
Professor Alicea responded, “I don’t think that would be necessary. If you had one person who sought class certification successfully, that would be sufficient.”
Durbin then asked the witnesses about judge shopping. During the Biden Administration, right-wing litigants flocked to the Amarillo Division of the Northern District of Texas to file their lawsuits. Those litigants filed their lawsuits in Amarillo because only one judge sits in that division—Judge Matthew Kacsmaryk. Litigants knew Judge Kacsmaryk would be assigned to their cases and viewed him as favorable to their arguments.
“Judge Kacsmaryk is pretty well known for the way he rules. Professor Shaw, do you have any observation on that?” Durbin asked.
Professor Shaw responded that “those single-judge divisions—like the one in Amarillo, Texas where Judge Kacsmaryk sits—are a genuine problem, but none of the injunctions against the Trump Administration have issued from judges who sit in those single-member districts… we aren’t seeing it now but I do think, regardless of who the president is, these single-judge divisions are a problem that Congress would be well-served to address.”
Video of Durbin’s first round of questions in Committee is available here.
Audio of Durbin’s first round of questions in Committee is available here.
Footage of Durbin’s first round of questions in Committee is available here for TV Stations.
-30-

MIL OSI USA News –

June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: DAAG Bill Rinner Delivers Remarks to the George Washington University Competition and Innovation Lab Conference Regarding Merger Review and Enforcement

Source: US Justice – Antitrust Division

Headline: DAAG Bill Rinner Delivers Remarks to the George Washington University Competition and Innovation Lab Conference Regarding Merger Review and Enforcement

Thank you for inviting me to join you today. I’m grateful for the opportunity, and honored to be among you all. For those of you who don’t know me, this is my second time serving at the Antitrust Division. I want to thank Assistant Attorney General Gail Slater for the opportunity to serve again alongside the tremendously talented attorneys, economists, and staff in the leadership and career ranks of the Division. My prior experience and former colleagues — some of whom I have the pleasure of serving alongside again — helped shape me into the attorney I am today.

MIL OSI USA News –

June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Senator Collins Announces Restoration of Funding for Maine AgrAbility Program

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins
Published: June 04, 2025

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins announced the restoration of funding for the Maine AgrAbility program. This announcement follows reports that the University of Maine (UMaine) was unable to draw down funding from the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA)—which funds the Maine AgrAbility program—without any notice from the federal agency.
“The Maine AgrAbility program has helped hundreds of workers across our state prevent serious injuries by providing training and technical assistance that help make high-risk jobs safer,” said Senator Collins. “I am glad that, following my discussions with Administration officials, this critical funding has been released so UMaine and its partners can continue to provide valuable guidance to our farmers, fishermen, and foresters.”
According to UMaine, the Maine AgrAbility program serves more than 1,600 workers in Maine’s heritage industries, supporting numerous efforts, such as providing safety training to loggers on best practices to prevent slips, trips, and falls on the work site, reducing the risk of injury and helping to lower the rates of their workers’ compensation coverage.

MIL OSI USA News –

June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Governor Polis, State and Local Community Leaders Come Together to Stand Against Hate

Source: US State of Colorado

Governor Polis joined faith leaders, statewide and local officials, and members of the Boulder community following the tragic attack on a peaceful gathering of people outside the Boulder Courthouse

BOULDER – Today, Governor Polis, Boulder Mayor Brockett, interfaith and statewide leaders came together to stand against hate and for a moment of unity after the tragic attack against a peaceful gathering of people raising awareness for the hostages still being held by Hamas.

Attendees included Boulder Run for Their Lives, Congregation Bonai Shalom, the David Merage Foundation for Confronting Antisemitism, Stop Antisemitism Colorado, Haver: The Boulder Rabbinic Council, Anti-Defamation League, Mountain States, JEWISHcolorado, Jewish Community Relations Council, Jewish Association for Death Education (JADE), Boulder Jewish Community Center, Congregation Nevei Kodesh, Congregation Har Hashem, Jewish Family Service Boulder, Israeli-American Council, Adventure Judaism, Downtown Boulder Partnership, City of Boulder, Boulder Chamber of Commerce, and the Interfaith Alliance.

“Today, I stand united and strong with the Boulder community as we recover from the devastating anti-Semitic attacks on our fellow Colordans, and wish each of the victims a speedy and healthy recovery. Violence in any form has no place in Colorado, and we know that to move forward we must join together in our common humanity to ensure peace in our communities, take care of one another, and emerge stronger. My heart is with those impacted by this devastating event, and we are continuing to actively work with local and state law enforcement to protect our communities and keep people safe,” said Governor Jared Polis.

“The whole Jewish community is reeling, shocked that this hideous hate crime could happen right here in downtown beautiful Boulder. And yet, we have seen this coming and Jews here and all over America and the world have not been feeling safe, physically or emotionally, in the face of demonizing hate speech and dangerous rhetoric. We are so grateful for the outpouring of love and support from our neighbors and friends, faith leaders from across the county, state and the world. Demonization of others has to stop. The hate speech has to stop,” said Rabbi Marc Soloway.

“To our Jewish community: You are not alone. Boulder stands with you, not just today, but every day. Antisemitism has no place in Boulder. Hate against any group of people has no place in Boulder and we recognize that the oppression you have faced is part of a disturbing historical context. Your safety is our safety. Your pain is our pain. Your resilience inspires us all,” said Boulder Mayor Aaron Brockett.

“There’s no place for antisemitism in our community. Sunday’s attack on our Jewish community was an act of hate, but Boulder County continues to stand for love and unity. As we experience yet another tragedy, please remember to check in with friends, loved ones, and neighbors, and look after your own mental health and wellbeing,” said Boulder County Commissioner Ashley Stolzmann

“Every week, we walk in peace to shine a light on the hostages still held in Gaza since October 7, 2023. That a simple act of quiet solidarity made us the target of a violent, hateful, antisemitic attack has shaken the Jewish community to its core. This didn’t happen in a vacuum—it is the result of increasingly normalized hate, dehumanizing rhetoric, and silence in the face of rising antisemitism. But we will not be deterred. We will walk again—and we invite everyone to join us, not just with your feet, but with open hearts and minds. Choose humanity over hate, curiosity over judgment, and learning over condemnation. In a world growing more divided by the day, it’s time to come together around empathy, dignity, and the fundamental belief that every life matters,” said Rachel Amaru, Founder of Boulder Run For Their Lives.

“We call on all Coloradans, indeed all Americans, to stand together in outrage and solidarity to say with one voice: enough—this cannot continue,” said Laura Merage, Founder and CEO of the David Merage Foundation.

“We live in a broken world, and yet every human has choices–let us choose healing and hope, and not hatred and violence,” said Reverend Mary Kate Réjoius, St. Aidan’s Episcopal Church.

“For far too long, the Jewish community has been forced to stand alone in the face of hate—ostracized, alienated, and demonized simply for being who we are. In the wake of the most violent antisemitic terrorist attack in Colorado history, we are reminded of the profound power of standing shoulder to shoulder. True solidarity means more than showing up in moments of heartbreak—it means committing to lasting change. It starts with educating our own communities, building bridges of understanding, and centering respect as the foundation of our shared future. Let today be the beginning of a new chapter in Colorado—one where Jews no longer have to stand alone,” said Mindy Miller, Stop Antisemitism Colorado.

“The Muslim Community in our precious Boulder, in our unique state of Colorado, and quiet frankly across our beautiful country, stand firm on our Islamic shared values of neighborliness which are American values. We stand firm on that with our neighbors whether Jewish, Christian, or, Muslim , at all times and especially at times like this. Hence, We must never tolerate hatred against Jews or Muslims and attacks like this makes all our communities less safe. That’s why it is so important to help our community heal after tragedy, and we thank the Governor for bringing us together to foster unity,” said Imam Nader Elmarhoumi, Islamic Center of Boulder

The event concluded with a performance from Boulder philharmonic members: Jubal Fulks – violin, Colette Burch – violin, Brightin Schlumpf – viola and Sally Murphy – cello.

###

MIL OSI USA News –

June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI: PromptQL Partners with UC Berkeley to Develop New Data Agent Benchmark for Reliability of Enterprise AI Agents

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

BERKELEY, Calif., June 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — PromptQL, a platform for reliable AI, today announced a strategic research collaboration with the University of California, Berkeley to develop the first comprehensive data agent benchmark for enterprise reliability specifically designed to evaluate general-purpose AI data agents in enterprise environments.

A recent McKinsey study revealed that 78% of organizations use AI in at least one business function, however, more than 80% say their organization hasn’t seen a tangible impact on enterprise-level Earnings Before Interest and Taxes (EBIT). The partnership – led by Aditya Parameswaran, Professor and Co-Director of UC Berkeley’s EPIC Data Lab, along with his students – addresses this fundamental challenge organizations face when deploying AI systems in business-critical environments.

While existing agentic data benchmarks like GAIA, Spider, and FRAMES test specific AI tasks, they overlook the complexity, reliability demands, and messy, siloed data that define real business environments. The forthcoming data agent benchmark aims to offer a solution by creating a framework that reflects real-world complexities.

“Our customer conversations reveal a clear pattern—they’re ready to move from proof-of-concepts to production AI, yet they lack the evaluation tools to make confident deployment decisions,” said Tanmai Gopal, CEO of PromptQL. “The data agent benchmark changes that by using representative datasets from our work in telecom, healthcare, finance, retail, and anti-money laundering to reflect the real complexity of enterprise AI.”

UC Berkeley’s EPIC Data Lab brings expertise to this collaboration. Professor Parameswaran is a leading authority on the use of AI for next-gen usable data analysis tools and has received numerous prestigious awards. His research group has created widely-adopted data tools with tens of millions of downloads.

“Current benchmarks suffer from what I call the ‘1% problem’—they’re built for tech giants and ignore the 99% of organizations grappling with real-world data complexity,” Parameswaran said. “The data agent benchmark marks a shift toward evaluating AI based on the reliability, transparency, and practical value enterprises actually need. This collaboration bridges academic rigor with the production insights PromptQL brings from real deployments.”

The data agent benchmark beta will be revealed later this year. Organizations interested in early access or contributing use-cases or datasets can reach out to the research team at epic-support@eecs.berkeley.edu.

PromptQL will be at AI Engineer World’s Fair, June 3-6 in San Francisco. Tanmai Gopal, PromptQL’s co-founder and CEO, will present a session, “Al Automation that Actually Works: $100M Impact on Messy Data with Zero Surprises,” on June 4 at 11:15 a.m. PT. To learn more or schedule a demo at the PromptQL booth, visit https://hasura.io/events/ai-engineer-worlds-fair-2025.

About PromptQL
PromptQL is a next-generation AI platform from the makers of Hasura, the company behind the pioneering GraphQL Engine. Built for enterprise-grade reliability, PromptQL enables natural language analysis and automation on internal business data — with an industry-first accuracy SLA. By learning the unique language of your business and planning tasks before executing them deterministically, PromptQL brings human-level precision to AI agents.

About UC Berkeley EPIC Data Lab
The EPIC Data Lab at UC Berkeley develops low-code and no-code interfaces for data work, powered by Gen AI. Co-Led by Professor Aditya Parameswaran, the lab follows Berkeley’s tradition of multidisciplinary systems research with emphasis on real-world impact and practical deployment. The lab’s tools, including DocETL and other widely-adopted systems, demonstrate Berkeley’s leadership in democratizing data science capabilities.

Media Contact:
Erica Anderson
Offleash for PromptQL
promptql@offleashpr.com

Research Contact:
Professor Aditya Parameswaran
UC Berkeley EPIC Data Lab
epic-support@eecs.berkeley.edu

The MIL Network –

June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Hillsvale — Southwest Nova District RCMP arrests four people, seizes drugs, cash and firearms
Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

Southwest Nova District RCMP Street Crime Enforcement Unit (SCEU) has arrested four people following the execution of a search warrant in Hillsvale.

On June 3, Southwest Nova District RCMP SCEU, assisted by officers from West Hants District RCMP, executed a search warrant at a home on Ardoise School Rd. in relation to an ongoing drug trafficking investigation. At the home, a 59-year-old woman, a 59-year-old man and a 40-year-old woman, all from Hillsvale, and a 36-year-old man from Middle Sackville were safely arrested.

During the search, officers located and seized a quantity of cocaine, cash, five rifles and drug paraphernalia.

Melissa Sharon Millett, 40, who was wanted on a province-wide arrest warrant, has been charged with:
- Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking
- Possession of Firearm Knowing its Possession is Unauthorized
Millett appeared in court and was remanded into custody. She will appear in Kentville Provincial Court on June 6, 2025, at 9:30 a.m.

The three other people who were arrested were released on conditions. They will appear in Windsor Provincial Court at a later date to face charges of Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking and Possession of Firearm Knowing its Possession is Unauthorized.

The investigation continues.

Anyone with information about illicit drugs or other criminal activity in West Hants County is encouraged to contact West Hants District RCMP at 902-798-2207. To remain anonymous, call Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or use the P3 Tips app.

File: 2025-351020

MIL Security OSI –
June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Read More (Rep. Steube Introduces “No Loan Forgiveness for Terrorists Act” to Codify Trump Executive Order)

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

June 04, 2025 | Press ReleasesWASHINGTON — U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) today introduced the No Loan Forgiveness for Terrorists Act to codify President Trump’s executive order prohibiting the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program from crediting employees of organizations engaged in illegal activity.
“If someone accepts a job with an organization that is actively undermining U.S. national security and federal law, they shouldn’t expect a thank you note and taxpayer-funded prize for their work,” said Rep. Steube. “President Trump’s executive order to protect the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program is the right policy to prevent the subsidization of illegal activity. That is why Senator Banks and I have set forward this bill to codify President Trump’s order and ensure nefarious non-profits and their employees are not rewarded with student loan forgiveness that should be reserved for law enforcement and deserving public servants.”
Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) introduced companion legislation last month in the U.S. Senate.
“Taxpayers shouldn’t be forced to pay student loans for radicals who aid terrorists, mutilate children, or promote illegal immigration,” said Senator Banks. “This bill codifies President Trump’s order to stop subsidizing anti-American extremism.”
Background: This bill would amend the scope of a “public sector job” under the Higher Education Act to disqualify time spent with entities that are found to be in violation of federal immigration and tort laws, supporting terrorist activities or child abuse, or engaged in a pattern of discrimination. These changes would ensure federal law reflects President Trump’s March 7, 2025, executive order on Restoring Public Service Loan Forgiveness.
Read the full bill here.

MIL OSI USA News –

June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Prime Minister’s remarks at a roundtable with Lewis Hamilton: 4 June 2025

Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Speech

Prime Minister’s remarks at a roundtable with Lewis Hamilton: 4 June 2025

The Prime Minister gave remarks this afternoon at a roundtable with Lewis Hamilton and a group of young people, in support of Lewis’ foundation Mission 44.

The Prime Minister gave remarks this afternoon at a roundtable with Lewis Hamilton and a group of young people, in support of Lewis’ foundation Mission 44.

This focused on how we can work together to ensure young people are supported to attend and thrive in school.

As part of the discussion, the PM confirmed that government will develop a best practice framework to help schools increase pupil engagement, alongside our work to recruit and retain brilliant and inspiring teachers in every classroom.

Can I just welcome everyone to Downing Street and to this room in particular. This is the Cabinet Room. This is the room where the Prime Minister sits in this chair, opposite the Chancellor of the Exchequer, and all the Cabinet members—including Bridget, who’s obviously responsible for education—and we sit here and make the big decisions of the day.

We do it every week, on a Tuesday morning, but we also do it when we need to make big decisions.

This building, this room, this table, these chairs—they’ve been used by Prime Ministers for decades.

You’re sitting around the Cabinet table where decisions were made about the First World War, the Second World War, and many other world events in recent years.

It’s not just a piece of history—it’s a place where leaders for many, many decades have made big decisions for our country.

It’s because one of the things Lewis and I talked about when we thought about the idea of getting something together like this was having young people in a position where they could use their voices and be heard.

And I thought there’s no better place than around the Cabinet table.

You’re sitting where people have made big decisions about the country, you’re here to influence big decisions about the country.

Some of you will want to talk more than others, but it’s important that we hear the voices of young people and really listen to them.

Because the danger if we don’t is – particularly if you’re a politician – that you make assumptions about what people think. Making decisions based on what you think they’re feeling. And that’s why having this opportunity to hear from you is so important.

I want to thank Lewis—this was his idea, this is his legacy. He’s inspired generations and is now using that influence on this project and is designed to make a real difference in the lives of young people across the country.

I think we need to acknowledge we’re in a really challenging time for young people. A lot of children left school at the beginning of the COVID pandemic and haven’t gone back to school. The achievement gap between the richest and poorest is back to levels we haven’t seen since 2011. That’s shocking. Because I like to think we’re a country that always moves forwards. Always taking a step in the right direction. So when things start going backwards we know we have a real problem.

That’s why I’m really pleased we’re going to publish a best practice framework—to encourage students to enjoy learning, achieve their potential, and have confidence.

I’ve got a 16-year-old son and a 14-year-old daughter. My wife and I agreed: the two things that matters most to instil in them are that they’re happy and confident. And the best schools and teachers believe in their students. They set high expectations but also give the support that people need.

We’ve got what’s called an ‘Opportunity Mission’ which is part of what we want to achieve in government. Bridget is leading on this. It includes things like rolling out free breakfast clubs which are really important in schools, so that all children can come in and start the day with the opportunity for something to eat. Better access to mental health support which is desperately needed in schools. Getting more teachers into classrooms, and teachers in key subjects, supporting students back into school. And a big increase in the schools budget which has been much overdue.

All of that really matters because I was genuinely shocked when Bridget and I were discussing how we took on this work to learn that how far people go in their lives is still more likely to be determined by the income or salary of their parents than their own talent. That’s terrible. We’ve got to turn that around.

To some extent this is personal for me because I was lucky, I went through school, went off to university, became a lawyer, Chief Prosecutor, a politician and now I sit here.

But my brother had a different story to tell. He really struggled at school—and had difficulties learning, not because of a learning difficulty, but because then in his time he was pushed to one side and treated as someone who would never learn.

He struggled a lot as a result of that. You might think someone who sits here as Prime Minister has no idea what it’s like to struggle at school but I know from my own brother what it was like, and how much resilience and personal courage he had to have.

That shaped his life, and shaped my life as well.

As I said to some of you earlier, sometimes politics is about big decisions, policies, data analysis, and speeches.

But most of the time, it’s about who do you have in your mind’s eye when you make a decision?

Do you really know who you’re talking about?

Do you know the impact you have on their lives?

Are you thinking about them when you make those decisions?

That’s why I think it’s so important we’re having this session now because I will take away from this what you’ve said around this table.

I will take away the work that Lewis is doing. The importance of your discussions—whether in this advisory or elsewhere—so that we have got you in our mind’s eye when we make decisions about what to do. So let’s get on with it.

The question we really want to discuss in this session is how can we make sure all young people are supported to succeed at school?

Thank you for the work you’re doing.

Thank you for using your influence to make this happen.

I’m really proud to be able to sit here and support you.

Thank you.

Updates to this page

Published 4 June 2025

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: How did humans evolve such rotten genetics?

Source: The Conversation – UK – By Laurence D. Hurst, Professor of Evolutionary Genetics at The Milner Centre for Evolution, University of Bath

MaksEvs/Shutterstock

To Shakespeare’s Hamlet we humans are “the paragon of animals”. But recent advances in genetics are suggesting that humans are far from being evolution’s greatest achievement.

For example, humans have an exceptionally high proportion of fertilised eggs that have the wrong number of chromosomes and one of the highest rates of harmful genetic mutation.

In my new book The Evolution of Imperfection I suggest that two features of our biology explain why our genetics are in such a poor state. First, we evolved a lot of our human features when our populations were small and second, we feed our young across a placenta.

Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

Our reproduction is notoriously risky for both mother and embryo. For every child born another two fertilised eggs never made it.

Most human early embryos have chromosomal problems. For older mothers, these embryos tend to have too many or too few chromosomes due to problems in the process of making eggs with just one copy of each chromosome. Most chromosomally abnormal embryos don’t make it to week six so are never a recognised pregnancy.

About 15% of recognised pregnancies spontaneously miscarry, usually before week 12, rising to 65% in women over 40. About half of miscarriages are because of chromosomal issues.

Other mammals have similar chromosome-number problems but with an error rate of about 1% per chromosome. Cows should have 30 chromosomes in sperm or egg but about 30% of their fertilised eggs have odd chromosome numbers.

Humans with 23 chromosomes should have about 23% of fertilised eggs with the wrong number of chromosomes but our rate is higher in part because we presently reproduce late and chromosomal errors escalate with maternal age.

Survive that, then gestational diabetes and high blood pressures issues await, most notably pre-eclampsia, potentially lethal to mother and child, affecting about 5% of pregnancies. It is unique to humans.

Historically, up until about 1800, childbirth was remarkably dangerous with about 1% maternal mortality risk, largely owing to pre-eclampsia, bleeding and infection. In Japanese macaques by contrast, despite offspring also having a large head, maternal mortality isn’t seen. Advances in maternal care have seen current UK maternal mortality rates plummet to 0.01%.

Many of these problems are contingent on the placenta. Compare us to a kiwi bird that loads its large egg with resources and sits on it, even if it is dead: time and energy wasted. In mammals, if the embryo is not viable, the mother may not even know she had conceived.

The high rate of chromosomal issues in our early embryos is a mammalian trait connected to the fact that early termination of a pregnancy lessens the costs, meaning less time wasted holding onto a dead embryo and not giving up the resources that are needed for a viable embryo to grow into a baby.

But reduced costs are not enough to explain why chromosomal problems are so common in mammals.

During the process of making a fertilisable egg with one copy of each chromosome, a sister cell is produced, called the polar body. It’s there to discard half of the chromosomes. It can “pay” in evolutionary terms for a chromosome to not go to the polar body when it should instead stay behind in the soon to be fertilised egg.

It forces redirection of resources to viable offspring. This can explain why chromosomal errors are mostly maternal and why, given their lack of ability to redirect saved energy, other vertebrates don’t seem to have embryonic chromosome problems.

Our problems with gestational diabetes are a consequence of foetuses releasing chemicals from the placenta into the mother’s blood to keep glucose available. The problems with pre-eclampsia are associated with malfunctioning placentas, in part owing to maternal immune rejection of the foetus.

Regular unprotected sex can protect women against pre-eclampsia by helping the mother become used to paternal proteins. The fact that pre-eclampsia is human-specific may be related to our exceptionally invasive placenta that burrows deep into the uterine lining, possibly required to build our unusually large brains.

Our other peculiarities are predicted by the most influential evolutionary theory of the last 50 years, the nearly-neutral theory. It states that natural selection is less efficient when a species has few individuals.

A slightly harmful mutation can be removed from a population if that population is large but can increase in frequency, by chance, if the population is small. Most human-specific features evolved when our population size was around 10,000 in Africa prior to its recent (last 20,000 years) expansion. Minuscule compared to, for example, bacterial populations.

This explains why we have such a bloated genome. The main job of DNA is to give instructions to our cells about how to make the proteins vital for life.

That is done by just 1% of our DNA but by 85% of that of our gut-dwelling bacteria Escherichia coli. Some of our DNA is required for other reasons, such as controlling which genes get activated and when. Yet only about 10% of our DNA shows any signs of being useful.

If you have a small population size, you also have more problems stopping genetical errors like mutations. Although DNA mutations can be beneficial, they are more commonly a curse. They are the basis of genetic diseases, be they complex (such as Crohn’s disease and predispositions to cancer), or owing to single gene effects (like cystic fibrosis and Huntington’s disease).

We have one of the highest mutation rates of all species. Other species with massive populations have mutation rates over three orders of magnitude lower, another prediction of the nearly-neutral theory.

A consequence of our high mutation rate is that around 5% of us suffer a “rare” genetic disease.

Modern medicine may help cure our many ailments, but if we can’t do anything about our mutation rate, we will still get ill.

Laurence D. Hurst is the author of The Evolution of Imperfection, published by Princeton University Press. This was enabled by funding from The Humboldt Foundation and the European Research Council.

– ref. How did humans evolve such rotten genetics? – https://theconversation.com/how-did-humans-evolve-such-rotten-genetics-255473

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Trump’s Middle East pivot aims to counter China’s rising influence

Source: The Conversation – UK – By Maria Papageorgiou, Leverhulme Early Career Researcher, School of Geography, Politics, and Sociology, Newcastle University

The US president, Donald Trump, claimed he was able to secure deals totalling more than US$2 trillion (£1.5 trillion) for the US on his tour of the Gulf states in May. Trump said “there has never been anything like” the amount of jobs and money these agreements will bring to the US.

However, providing a lift for the US economy wasn’t the only thing on Trump’s mind. China’s influence in the wider Middle East region is growing fast – so much so that it was even able to mediate a detente between bitter regional rivals Saudi Arabia and Iran in 2023.

Trump’s attempt to strengthen ties with countries in the Middle East is probably also a deliberate attempt to contain China’s growing regional ambitions.

China has spent the past two decades building up its economic and political relations with the Middle East. In 2020, it replaced the EU as the largest trading partner to the Gulf Cooperation Council, which includes Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Bilateral trade between them was valued at over US$161 billion (£119 billion).

Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

The Middle East has also become an important partner to China’s sprawling Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Massive infrastructure projects in the region, such as high-speed railway lines in Saudi Arabia, have provided lucrative opportunities for Chinese companies.

The total value of Chinese construction and investment deals in the Middle East reached US$39 billion in 2024, the most of any region in the world. That year, the three countries with the highest volume of BRI-related construction contracts and investment were all in the Middle East: Saudi Arabia, Iraq and the UAE.

China has also strengthened its financial cooperation with Middle Eastern countries, particularly the UAE and Saudi Arabia. As part of China’s efforts to reduce global reliance on the US dollar for trade, it has arranged cross-border trade settlements, currency swap agreements, and is engaging in digital currency collaboration initiatives with these countries.

American security guarantees have historically fostered an alignment between the Gulf states and the west. The string of agreements Trump signed with countries there reflects an attempt to draw them away from China and back towards Washington’s orbit.

Countering China

One of the more significant developments from Trump’s trip was an agreement to deepen US technological cooperation with the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Qatar. The US and UAE announced they would work together to construct the largest AI data centre outside of the US in Abu Dhabi.

Technology is one of the key areas where China has been trying to assert its influence in the region. Through Beijing’s so-called “Digital Silk Road” initiative, which aims to develop a global digital ecosystem with China at its centre, Chinese firms have secured deals with Middle Eastern countries to provide 5G mobile network technology.

Chinese tech giants Huawei and Alibaba are also in the process of signing partnerships with telecommunications providers in the region for collaboration and research in cloud computing. These companies have gained traction by aligning closely with national government priorities, such as Saudi Arabia’s initiative to diversify its economy through tech development.

American companies, including Amazon, Microsoft and Google, have spent years building regional tech ecosystems across the Gulf. Trump is looking to recover this momentum. He was joined in the Middle East by more than 30 leaders of top American companies, who also secured commercial deals with their peers from the Gulf.

US quantum computing company Quantinuum and Qatari investment firm Al Rabban Capital finalised a joint venture worth up to a US$1 billion. The agreement will see investment in quantum technologies and workforce development in the US and Qatar.

There are two other areas where Trump is trying to cut China off. American companies and Abu Dhabi’s state-run oil firm agreed a US$60 billion energy partnership. China is heavily dependent on the Middle East for energy, with almost half of the oil it uses coming from the region. Greater alignment with the US could hamper Beijing’s ability to secure the resources it needs.

Trump also signed a raft of defence deals with Qatar and Saudi Arabia. These included a US$1 billion deal for Qatar to acquire drone defence technology from American aerospace conglomerate Raytheon RTX, and a US$142 billion agreement for the Saudis to buy military equipment from US firms.

These moves underscore Washington’s intention to limit China’s influence in key defence sectors. China is a key player in the global market for commercial and military drones, providing Saudi Arabia and the UAE with a large share of their combat drones.

One final aspect of Trump’s trip was his brief meeting with Syria’s interim president Ahmed al-Sharaa. Trump signalled possible sanctions relief, which has since come into effect. This constituted more than a diplomatic thaw.

With China positioning itself as a regional mediator and Russia struggling with a diminished role following the fall of Bashar al-Assad in Syria, the US is looking to reassert itself as the primary power broker in the region.

Dr Maria (Mary) Papageorgiou receives funding from the Leverhulme Trust.

– ref. Trump’s Middle East pivot aims to counter China’s rising influence – https://theconversation.com/trumps-middle-east-pivot-aims-to-counter-chinas-rising-influence-257366

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

June 5, 2025